Kala Chana Chaat
A vibrant and tangy Indian street food classic! Boiled black chickpeas are tossed with crisp onions, juicy tomatoes, and a medley of spices for a healthy, protein-packed snack that's ready in minutes.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
TIPCheck if the chana is soft by pressing one between your fingers. It should mash easily. Drain any excess water before using. - 2
Step 2
- 3
Step 3
- a.In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked kala chana, cubed potato, chopped onion, tomato, and green chili.
- b.Sprinkle over the chaat masala, roasted cumin powder, red chili powder, and kala namak.
- c.Squeeze in the fresh lemon juice.
- d.Gently toss everything together until well-coated with the spices.
TIPTaste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You might want more chaat masala for tanginess or more lemon juice. - 4
Step 4
- a.Mix in most of the chopped coriander leaves, saving some for garnish.
- b.Top generously with crispy sev just before serving.
- c.Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture and flavor.
What to keep in mind.
7 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Soaking the chana overnight is crucial for a soft texture; don't skip this step.
- 2For the best flavor, use freshly roasted and ground cumin powder.
- 3Deseeding the tomatoes prevents the chaat from becoming watery.
- 4Add the sev only at the time of serving to ensure it stays crisp.
- 5You can prepare the boiled chana and chopped veggies in advance and assemble the chaat just before eating.
- 6For a different texture, lightly mash about 1/4 of the boiled chana before adding it to the bowl.
- 7Feel free to add other crunchy vegetables like chopped cucumber or grated carrots.
Adapt it for your goals.
Healthy
Reduce the amount of sev and potato, and add more fresh vegetables like cucumber and bell pepper for extra crunch and nutrients.
quickQuick
Use canned black chickpeas (rinsed and drained) to skip the soaking and pressure cooking time. The chaat will be ready in 10 minutes.
high proteinHigh protein
Add 1/2 cup of crumbled paneer or sprouted moong beans for an extra protein boost.
jainJain
Omit the onion and potato. You can add boiled and cubed raw banana as a substitute for potato.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Plant-Based Protein
Black chickpeas are a fantastic source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
High in Dietary Fiber
The high fiber content from chickpeas and vegetables aids digestion, promotes gut health, and helps in managing blood sugar levels.
Packed with Minerals
This chaat is a good source of iron, manganese, and magnesium, which are vital for energy production, bone health, and preventing anemia.
Aids in Weight Management
The combination of protein and fiber keeps you feeling full for longer, helping to reduce overall calorie intake and manage weight.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is very healthy. Kala chana is an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and iron. The fresh vegetables add vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious and filling snack.