Chanyachi Bhaji
A simple yet flavorful Maharashtrian black chickpea stir-fry, spiced with aromatic goda masala. This wholesome and protein-packed dish is a rustic classic, pairing beautifully with bhakri or chapati.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 25 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Soak and Cook Chickpeas
- b.Rinse the dried kala chana thoroughly. Soak them in 4 cups of water overnight, or for at least 8 hours.
- c.Drain the soaking water. Transfer the chickpeas to a pressure cooker, add 2.5 cups of fresh water and 0.5 tsp of the salt.
- d.Secure the lid and pressure cook on medium-high heat for 4-5 whistles, or about 15-20 minutes, until the chickpeas are tender but still hold their shape.
- e.Allow the pressure to release naturally before opening the cooker. Do not discard the cooking water.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare the Tempering (Tadka)
- b.Heat the vegetable oil in a kadai or heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat.
- c.Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and let them splutter completely, which should take about 30 seconds.
- d.Add the cumin seeds and sauté for another 20-30 seconds until they sizzle and become fragrant.
- e.Stir in the hing (asafoetida).
- 3
Step 3
- a.Sauté Aromatics and Spices
- b.Add the finely chopped onion to the pan and sauté for 5-7 minutes until it becomes soft and golden brown.
- c.Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for about 1 minute until the raw aroma disappears.
- d.Reduce the heat to low. Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and goda masala. Stir continuously for 30-40 seconds to prevent the spices from burning.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Combine and Simmer
- b.Carefully add the cooked chickpeas along with all of their cooking liquid to the pan.
- c.Add the remaining 0.5 tsp of salt (or to taste), tamarind paste, and optional jaggery. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- d.Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 7-10 minutes. This allows the chickpeas to absorb the flavors of the masala.
- e.If the bhaji becomes too dry, add a splash of hot water to reach your desired consistency.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Garnish and Serve
- b.Turn off the heat. Stir in the freshly grated coconut and chopped coriander leaves.
- c.Gently mix everything together. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- d.Serve Chanyachi Bhaji hot with jowar bhakri, chapati, or as a side dish with dal and rice.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Soaking the chickpeas overnight is crucial for even cooking and better digestion.
- 2Goda masala is the heart of this dish. If unavailable, you can use garam masala with a pinch of cinnamon, clove powder, and a little sugar to mimic the flavor profile.
- 3Do not discard the water used for pressure cooking the chickpeas; it is full of nutrients and flavor and forms the base of the dish.
- 4For a quicker version, you can use canned black chickpeas. Rinse them well and add them in Step 4, along with about 1/2 cup of water or vegetable broth.
- 5Mash a few chickpeas with the back of a spoon in the pan to naturally thicken the bhaji.
Adapt it for your goals.
With Vegetables
Add diced potatoes or eggplant along with the onions to make the dish more substantial.
Gravy VersionGravy Version
For a gravy-based curry (Amti), add 1 cup of hot water in Step 4 and simmer for a few more minutes. You can also add a paste of roasted onion and coconut for a thicker gravy.
Different LegumesDifferent Legumes
This recipe also works well with other legumes like green moong (mung beans) or matki (moth beans).
Spicier VersionSpicier Version
Add 1-2 slit green chilies along with the ginger-garlic paste for an extra kick of heat.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Plant-Based Protein
Black chickpeas are an excellent source of protein, which is crucial for muscle repair, building tissues, and supporting overall body function, making it a great choice for vegetarians and vegans.
High in Dietary Fiber
The high fiber content from chickpeas aids in digestion, prevents constipation, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and promotes a feeling of fullness, which can assist in weight management.
Supports Heart Health
This dish is naturally low in saturated fat and cholesterol-free. The fiber and potassium in chickpeas contribute to maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels, supporting cardiovascular health.
Packed with Essential Minerals
Chanyachi Bhaji provides important minerals like iron, which is vital for energy production and preventing anemia, and manganese, an antioxidant that supports bone health and metabolism.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of Chanyachi Bhaji (approximately 1 cup or 195g) contains around 280-320 calories. This is an estimate and can vary based on the amount of oil and jaggery used.