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Chana Masaledar

Chana Masaledar recipe image
Chana Masaledar is a beloved Indian dish that transforms humble chickpeas into a deeply flavorful meal. The base begins with whole cumin seeds sizzling in oil, releasing their earthy aroma before onions are caramelized to a soft golden brown. A blend of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and coriander adds warmth and complexity, while fresh ginger and garlic provide a pungent kick. Tomato paste enriches the sauce, creating a thick, savory coating for the chickpeas. Finished with a squeeze of bright lemon juice and a hint of cayenne pepper, this dish offers a perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and sweet notes. It is incredibly satisfying served over steamed basmati rice or with warm naan bread. Ideal for weeknight dinners, this vegan-friendly curry is hearty, comforting, and packed with plant-based protein.
Cooking Method: ,
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 4
Calories: 117.7
Dietary: Gluten-free, Vegan, Vegetarian
Description
Chana Masaledar is a beloved Indian dish that transforms humble chickpeas into a deeply flavorful meal. The base begins with whole cumin seeds sizzling in oil, releasing their earthy aroma before onions are caramelized to a soft golden brown. A blend of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and coriander adds warmth and complexity, while fresh ginger and garlic provide a pungent kick. Tomato paste enriches the sauce, creating a thick, savory coating for the chickpeas. Finished with a squeeze of bright lemon juice and a hint of cayenne pepper, this dish offers a perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and sweet notes. It is incredibly satisfying served over steamed basmati rice or with warm naan bread. Ideal for weeknight dinners, this vegan-friendly curry is hearty, comforting, and packed with plant-based protein.
Ingredients
  • 3 tablespoon Vegetable oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon Whole cumin seeds
  • 1 md Onion; peeled & chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground cloves
  • 1 teaspoon Ground coriander
  • 2 Garlic Cloves
Directions
  1. 1
    Peel and mince a 1.5-inch piece of fresh ginger, and grate it if desired.
  2. 2
    Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat.
  3. 3
    Once the oil is hot, add the whole cumin seeds and let them sizzle for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. 4
    Add the chopped onion to the pan and stir-fry for approximately 7 minutes, or until the onions are soft and lightly golden.
  5. 5
    Reduce the heat to low and add the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and coriander.
  6. 6
    Stir the spices well to coat the onions, then add the minced garlic and ginger.
  7. 7
    Fry the mixture, stirring constantly, for about 3 minutes to release the aromatics without burning the spices.
  8. 8
    Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute until it deepens in color.
  9. 9
    Add the canned chickpeas (drained and rinsed) to the pan.
  10. 10
    Season with salt and cayenne pepper to taste, then squeeze in the fresh lemon juice.
  11. 11
    Stir everything together thoroughly, cover the pan, and let it simmer on low heat for 10 minutes.
  12. 12
    If the mixture appears too dry during simmering, add a splash of water or chickpea liquid to create a saucier consistency.
  13. 13
    Stir gently occasionally while cooking to ensure the chickpeas are evenly coated.
  14. 14
    Remove from heat and serve warm over basmati rice or with naan bread.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 117.7kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 11.7g18%
Saturated Fat 1.8g9%
Cholesterol 0.2mg1%
Sodium 1.8mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 3.6g2%
Dietary Fiber 1.2g5%
Sugars 1.1g
Protein 0.6g2%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: chana, chickpeas, curry, indian, vegan, spicy, aromatic, cumin, onion, garlic, ginger, tomato, simmer, comfort food, healthy, dinner, plant-based, protein, rice, naan, masala
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/chana-masaledar/