It's recipe time! Make scrumptious Indian chana masala
Chana masala, a beloved vegetarian dish, originates from the Indian subcontinent. It's a flavorful concoction of chickpeas in a spicy, tangy tomato-based sauce, seasoned with an array of aromatic spices. Esteemed in Indian cuisine and often enjoyed with rice or bread, its rich history and cultural significance have made it a worldwide favorite. Let's get cooking!
Gather the following ingredients
For this dish, you need: two cups canned chickpeas (drained, rinsed), one large onion (chopped), two tomatoes (pureed), two garlic cloves (minced), one-inch ginger (minced), one green chili (chopped), two tablespoons oil, one teaspoon cumin seeds, one-half teaspoon turmeric powder, one teaspoon coriander powder, one-half teaspoon garam masala, one-half teaspoon red chili powder (to taste), salt to taste, and cilantro for garnish.
Prepare the base for the curry
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for about 30 seconds or until they start to crackle. Then add the finely chopped onions and saute until they turn golden brown. This process should take about five to seven minutes. The golden-brown color of the onions will add depth to the flavor of your chana masala.
Add spices and tomatoes
After sauteing onions, add minced garlic, ginger, and chopped green chili. Cook for two minutes until the raw smell fades. Next, mix in turmeric, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook for a minute to avoid burning the spices. Add pureed tomatoes next and simmer on low heat until the mix thickens and oil starts separating.
Mix in chickpeas
Add the drained chickpeas to the tomato-spice mixture, incorporating about one cup of water for the desired consistency. Stir well to ensure all chickpeas are evenly coated with masala. Cover and let it simmer on low heat for around 10 minutes. This step is key for allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a richly spiced and harmonious dish.
Final touches
To finish your chana masala, sprinkle garam masala over it, mixing well to integrate the flavors. This step is essential for the dish's authentic taste. Then, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro leaves, adding a burst of freshness and color. This garnishing not only enhances the flavor but also makes the dish visually appealing, ready to be served and savored.
