Go Back
Chana Masala Recipe

Chana Masala

A classic North Indian chickpea curry simmered in a spiced onion and tomato gravy.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 cans chickpeas rinsed and drained (about 400g each)
  • 2 tablespoons cooking oil or ghee
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 2 medium onions finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 cup tomato puree or finely chopped tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon Kashmiri chilli powder or mild paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon amchur dried mango powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 cup water plus more as needed
  • 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste

Equipment

  • 1 Heavy-bottomed pot or pan Useful for simmering the curry without scorching.

Method
 

  1. Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds. Add the chopped onions and cook, stirring frequently, until they turn deep golden brown.
  2. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1 minute until the raw smell disappears. Reduce the heat to low and add the ground coriander, Kashmiri chilli powder, and turmeric. Stir continuously for 30 seconds.
  3. Pour in the tomato puree and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the oil begins to separate from the tomato mixture.
  4. Add the rinsed chickpeas and water to the pan. Use the back of a spoon to mash a small handful of chickpeas against the side of the pan to help thicken the gravy. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
  5. Remove the lid and stir in the amchur and garam masala. Simmer uncovered for another 5 minutes until the gravy reaches your preferred thickness. Serve hot.

Notes

Adjust the amount of water to make the gravy thicker or thinner depending on your preference.