Quick Chana Masala
This quick chana masala delivers a vibrant, hearty chickpea curry in under 30 minutes, featuring a perfect balance of earthy spices and the bright tang of amchur.
For 4 servings
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add chopped onion and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent, stirring occasionally.
Stir in minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green chili (if using). Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Add ground cumin, ground coriander, and turmeric powder. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until the spices are aromatic.
Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (undrained) and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and the sauce thickens slightly.
Add the drained and rinsed chickpeas, 1/2 cup of water or vegetable broth, and the remaining 1/2 tsp of salt. Stir well, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Remove from heat. Stir in the garam masala and amchur powder. Taste and adjust salt or spice if needed.
Garnish generously with fresh chopped cilantro before serving. Serve hot with rice or naan.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Bloom Your Spices: Don't skip the step of cooking the ground spices briefly in oil after the aromatics. This 'blooming' releases their full flavor and aroma.
- 2Tomato Paste Boost: For a richer, deeper tomato flavor, add 1-2 tablespoons of tomato paste along with the diced tomatoes and cook it down for a minute before adding chickpeas.
- 3Adjust Spice Level: For more heat, add an extra green chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For less, omit the green chili.
- 4Rest for Flavor: Like many curries, chana masala often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetable Addition
Stir in a few handfuls of fresh spinach during the last 5 minutes of simmering until wilted for added greens and nutrients.
Texture/RichnessTexture/Richness
For a creamier texture, stir in 1/4 cup of full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream at the very end of cooking.
Flavor ProfileFlavor Profile
Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke along with the other spices for a subtle smoky depth.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Digestive Health
Chickpeas are an excellent source of dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion and helping to regulate blood sugar levels.
Plant-Based Protein
As a good source of plant-based protein, chana masala contributes to muscle maintenance and helps you feel full and satisfied.
Antioxidant Power
Spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander are packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that support overall health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, but you'll need to soak them overnight and then cook them until tender (about 1-2 hours) before adding them to the recipe. This will significantly increase the prep and cook time.
