Chana Curry
Chana Curry
4.97 from 55 votes
This authentic chana masala is a popular breakfast recipe all across India and Pakistan. Fresh chickpeas are lathered in a delicious and spicy masala sauce. Serve alongside a side of puri for a traditional desi breakfast.
Chana Curry

Chana curry, a dish deeply rooted in Indian cuisine, has transcended its origin to become a beloved meal across the globe.

The essence of this dish lies in its intricate blend of spices and humble ingredients like chickpeas. It’s the perfect example of how everyday items in your pantry can be transformed into a sumptuous feast.

Now, let’s talk about the difficulty level. We’d classify this chana curry recipe as moderate. You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to bring this to life, but a bit of experience in the kitchen can help you navigate the various spices and steps involved.

Variety is the spice of life, and the same holds true for chana curry. While the traditional recipe focuses on chickpeas, you can always experiment.

Adding vegetables like bell peppers or even spinach gives a nutritious twist. For the more carnivorous among us, mixing in some shredded chicken can add another layer of depth.

In terms of preparation, the initial soaking of the chickpeas requires some foresight, especially if you opt for fresh chickpeas instead of canned ones. But after that, it’s a straightforward cooking process.

The transformative power of spices like turmeric and cumin, balanced with the robustness of garlic and onions, takes centre stage as the dish comes together.

Regarding the cooking time, patience is indeed a virtue. Slow-cooked to perfection, the blend of spices seeps into the chickpeas, enhancing their natural flavour.

What emerges is a pot full of aromatic, rich, and velvety curry. The addition of coriander towards the end introduces a splash of freshness, rounding off the dish beautifully.

Now, you might wonder why we’ve opted for olive oil in this recipe. Traditional recipes usually use ghee or vegetable oil, but we find that olive oil gives a slightly earthy nuance, adding another layer of complexity.

And if you’re health-conscious, it’s a win-win situation, as olive oil is a better option, nutrition-wise.

Chana curry is a beloved, versatile dish that showcases the brilliance of Indian spices. It’s an all-encompassing recipe that speaks to your soul, one spoonful at a time. So, gather your ingredients and set aside some time; your culinary journey awaits.

What Ingredients to Use & Why

Before diving into the ingredient breakdown, let’s acknowledge that each element in our chana curry recipe plays a pivotal role in creating the dish’s harmonious flavours.

While the recipe can be customised to suit personal preferences, the ingredients we’ve chosen offer a balanced, delectable experience.

Chickpeas (Chana): Chickpeas serve as the main ingredient, providing not only substance but also a nutty flavour that complements the spices perfectly. Rich in protein and fibre, chickpeas make the dish hearty and filling.

For those looking for alternatives, lentils or even black-eyed peas can be a good replacement.

Olive Oil: We opt for olive oil to add an earthy depth and also for its health benefits. Traditionally, ghee or vegetable oil might be used, but olive oil gives a unique twist. The oil serves as a carrier for the spices, helping to evenly distribute flavours.

Onions: Onions offer sweetness and depth to the chana curry, especially when sautéed to a golden brown. They help balance the intense flavours of the spices. Shallots can serve as a suitable alternative but may bring a slightly sharper flavour profile.

Garlic Paste: Garlic introduces a robust aroma and a pungent, earthy flavour, making it indispensable in our curry. Garlic powder could be used as an alternative, although the paste provides a fresher taste.

Tomatoes: These add a tangy kick and a natural sweetness, acting as a balancing agent against the robust flavours of the spices. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, canned tomatoes can work well.

Turmeric Powder (Haldi): A quintessential spice in Indian cooking, turmeric provides a golden hue and subtle earthiness. There’s hardly a substitute for turmeric, as its characteristics are quite unique to this spice.

Chilli Powder: This adds the heat and vibrant colour to the curry. For those sensitive to spice, paprika can offer a milder alternative with a similar hue.

Salt: A basic yet crucial ingredient, salt enhances all the other flavours in the dish. While table salt is commonly used, Himalayan pink salt or sea salt can offer a different mineral profile.

Cumin Powder (Jeera): Cumin brings a warm, spicy kick and an aromatic complexity. If you’re looking for a twist, try using roasted cumin powder for an even deeper flavour profile.

Green Chillies: For those who appreciate an extra spicy kick, green chillies add both heat and a fresh, crisp note. If you want to tone down the heat, consider using capsicum.

Coriander: Freshly chopped coriander brings a burst of freshness and vibrant colour, rounding off the dish. Parsley can serve as an alternative, although the flavour profile will differ.

As we wrap up this breakdown, it’s clear how each ingredient contributes to the symphony of flavours that make up chana curry.

While the spices add complexity, the core ingredients like chickpeas and tomatoes offer body and balance. With the right ingredients in hand, you’re well on your way to creating a chana curry that’s bound to impress.

The Nutritional Benefits of Chana Curry

When it comes to a dish that is as tasty as it is healthy, chana curry stands out. The ingredients not only serve to tantalise your taste buds but also pack a punch in the nutritional department.

Chickpeas, the main ingredient, are a rich source of protein and dietary fibre. These essential nutrients can aid in weight management, lower cholesterol levels, and even improve heart health.

Olive oil, another key component, is loaded with antioxidants and healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats that have been linked to lower levels of bad cholesterol. Combine that with the anti-inflammatory benefits of turmeric, and you’ve got yourself a hearty meal that’s a nutritional powerhouse.

Furthermore, the garlic and onions in the recipe are more than just flavour enhancers; they have numerous health benefits as well.

Garlic is known to be good for cardiovascular health and has natural antibacterial properties. Onions, on the other hand, contain powerful antioxidants and can also help control blood sugar levels.

However, like any dish, moderation is key. While chana curry is generally considered healthy, salt and chilli powder should be adjusted to meet individual health needs, especially for those with high blood pressure or digestive issues.

How to Serve and Store Chana Curry

Now that you’ve mastered the art of making a mouth-watering chana curry, let’s talk about the best ways to serve and store it.

The dish pairs exceptionally well with an array of Indian breads like puri, naan, or even a simple serving of steamed rice. For an extra layer of flavour and texture, consider garnishing with a dollop of plain yoghurt or a sprinkle of lemon juice.

As for storing your chana curry, it keeps remarkably well in the fridge. In an airtight container, the curry can last for up to 3-4 days.

The flavours actually improve over time, making leftovers an equally delightful experience. Freezing is another option; just ensure the curry is completely cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

But what if you’ve cooked up a large batch for a party or meal prep? In such cases, separating the curry into portion-sized containers can make it easier to reheat only what you need, reducing waste and maintaining freshness.

Regarding reheating, you could either use a microwave or stovetop. However, using the stovetop is preferable as it allows the spices to come alive again. Just place it on low heat and stir occasionally until fully warmed.

Whether you’re prepping for the week or entertaining guests, knowing how to properly serve and store your chana curry ensures that you’ll get the most out of this scrumptious dish.

Mastering the Art of Chana Curry Spices

When it comes to Indian cuisine, spices are the linchpin that holds everything together.

With our chana curry, this couldn’t be more accurate. The combination of cumin, turmeric, and chilli powder creates a beautiful melody of flavours that elevate the humble chickpea to new heights. Let’s delve into why these spices are so crucial for this dish.

Cumin powder, often referred to as ‘Jeera,’ is a staple in Indian kitchens. Apart from its robust, earthy flavour, it’s a spice known for its digestive benefits.

Cumin aids in the digestion of foods and can also help relieve bloating or discomfort. When added to chana curry, it blends perfectly with the texture of chickpeas and gives the dish a depth that is hard to replicate.

Then we have turmeric, another cornerstone of Indian cooking. Not only does it impart the characteristic yellow hue, but it also has an array of health benefits.

Turmeric is an antioxidant-rich spice that has anti-inflammatory properties. It complements the chickpeas and other spices, adding both colour and a subtle earthy taste.

Chilli powder gives the curry its kick, rounding out the flavour profile and providing a spiciness that’s synonymous with many Indian dishes.

While it’s tempting to add more, remember that a little goes a long way. If you like it hot, adjust to your preference, but be cautious to avoid overwhelming the other flavours.

Mastering the spices in your chana curry is a dance of balance. Each spice contributes its unique characteristics to the dish, creating a harmony that makes the curry truly special. Experiment and adjust to find your perfect blend.

Chana Curry for Different Diets

When we prepare chana curry, we’re mindful of its versatile nature. The basic recipe is inherently vegan and gluten-free, which makes it an excellent choice for people following a variety of diets. Let’s look at some ways to tailor chana curry to different dietary needs.

For those following a low-sodium diet, it’s possible to reduce the salt content without compromising on taste.

You can use low-sodium alternatives or simply rely more on the natural flavours of the spices and vegetables. Olive oil is already a heart-healthy fat, but you can switch it out for canola oil or even a cooking spray to lower the fat content further.

If you’re following a keto or low-carb diet, adjusting this dish is a bit more challenging but not impossible. Chickpeas are rich in carbohydrates, so consider using a lower-carb legume like lentils. They’ll offer a different texture but still absorb the spices well.

For those who prefer a non-vegan version, adding a dollop of cream or a splash of ghee can make the curry richer and more indulgent. Chicken or paneer cubes also serve as excellent additions, providing an extra layer of protein and flavour.

Whatever your dietary preferences or needs, chana curry can be easily adapted to suit you. Feel free to experiment with ingredients, keeping the core spices and techniques intact for an unforgettable dish.

Elevating Chana Curry with Fresh Herbs

Fresh herbs have an incredible ability to lift a dish, adding complexity, depth, and freshness that dried herbs or spices alone can’t achieve. In the realm of chana curry, incorporating fresh herbs can make all the difference in the world.

Coriander, often known as cilantro in some parts of the world, is frequently used to garnish chana curry.

This herb provides a fresh, citrusy note that complements the robust flavours of the spices. The stalks can be finely chopped and added in the cooking process, while the leaves serve as a vibrant garnish.

Mint is another herb that works wonderfully in chana curry. Its cool, refreshing flavour provides a contrast to the warmth of the spices. It’s especially effective when paired with yoghurt in a side dish, like raita, which can be served alongside the curry.

Basil is less traditional but offers a unique twist. Thai basil, with its anise-like flavour, can lend an interesting note to chana curry. Be cautious with the amount, though, as it’s potent and can easily overpower the dish.

Even herbs like parsley and chives can find a place in this curry. While not traditional, they can offer a different profile that adds to the complexity of the dish. Fresh herbs are like the final brush strokes on a painting, completing and elevating the experience.

Pairing Chana Curry with Beverages

Deciding what to drink with your chana curry can elevate your dining experience. As much as the spices and herbs play crucial roles, the beverages you pair with your meal can either complement or compete with those flavours.

A glass of chilled lassi, either sweet or salty, tends to be a crowd-pleaser. This yoghurt-based drink not only cools the palate but also complements the spicy and savoury notes of the curry.

If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, coconut water is a fantastic alternative. It’s refreshing, naturally sweet, and helps to balance the spiciness of the curry.

Even a cup of spiced chai can be a comforting companion to chana curry. The cardamom, cinnamon, and other spices in the chai mirror those in the curry, creating a harmonious dining experience. However, this could be a better option if your curry is on the milder side to prevent an overload of spices.

By thoughtfully selecting your beverages, you create a more rounded and complete meal. The right drink not only complements the dish but also heightens each individual flavour, making each bite of your chana curry even more delightful.

The Role of Spices in Chana Curry

Spices are the heart and soul of chana curry, providing not just heat but also depth, complexity, and a myriad of health benefits. Each spice in this traditional Indian dish has its unique role to play.

Turmeric, for instance, not only lends its golden hue but also brings anti-inflammatory properties to the table. It’s a vital ingredient, offering earthy tones that are essential to the curry’s character.

Chilli powder, on the other hand, contributes to the spiciness of the dish. While turmeric provides the earthy base, chilli powder adds the heat that chana curry is often loved for. It’s adjustable, meaning you can add more or less depending on your preference for spice.

Cumin is another spice that can’t be overlooked. It adds an aromatic, slightly smoky undertone to the curry. It’s best added towards the end of cooking to preserve its flavour profile. Additionally, the seeds can be toasted before grinding to bring out their natural oils, enhancing the overall aroma and depth.

And let’s not forget about garlic. While technically not a spice, its role in chana curry is no less crucial. Garlic brings a sharp, pungent aroma that complements the sweetness of the onions. It’s usually transformed into a paste for more seamless integration into the dish.

Through the careful layering of these spices, a delightful depth and complexity emerge. Each bite offers a new discovery, making chana curry a dish that continually captivates your palate.

Exploring Vegan and Gluten-Free Options for Chana Curry

Chana curry is a dish that can be adapted to meet various dietary needs without compromising its rich flavour profile.

For vegans, substituting animal-based products is straightforward, given the inherently plant-based nature of the dish. Olive oil can easily replace ghee or butter to sauté the onions and spices, ensuring that the dish remains 100% plant-based.

Similarly, gluten-free adaptations are also simple to implement. Many traditional recipes for chana curry are naturally gluten-free. Still, it’s essential to check that any spice blends or pastes you are using don’t contain gluten as a filler or binding agent.

For a low-carb version, some people opt to use less onion and tomato than typically required or substitute them with low-carb vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. This adjustment results in a dish that’s equally hearty but fits within the parameters of a low-carb diet.

Nonetheless, it’s the spices that make the dish, and these are suitable for virtually any dietary preference. Whether you are vegan, gluten-free, or low-carb, the essential essence of chana curry lies in its complex blend of spices, which remains unchanged regardless of these modifications.

Regardless of your dietary restrictions or preferences, chana curry is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. It exemplifies how rich, satisfying cuisine doesn’t have to be limiting, proving itself to be as inclusive as it is delicious.

The Art of Soaking Chickpeas for Chana Curry

When it comes to making chana curry, the preparation often starts the night before with the soaking of chickpeas. The soaking process might seem trivial, but it’s a crucial step that impacts both the texture and the cooking time of the chickpeas.

Chickpeas, when soaked overnight, become soft, making them easier to cook and digest.

Some folks prefer to use canned chickpeas, and while convenient, it’s not quite the same as starting with dried chickpeas. Canned chickpeas are pre-cooked and may lack the earthy flavour that soaked and boiled chickpeas can bring to the curry.

If you’re short on time, the canned option works, but we’d always recommend going the extra mile with dried chickpeas for that authentic experience.

Now, there’s another angle to soaking chickpeas—salt or no salt? A pinch of salt in the soaking water can help soften the chickpeas, but it’s a matter of personal preference. Salt can also help season the chickpeas from the inside out, providing a more integrated flavour profile for the finished curry.

Soaking also provides the opportunity to add spices to the water, like a bay leaf or a slice of ginger, infusing the chickpeas with additional layers of flavour. While these touches are optional, they contribute to creating a chana curry that’s more than the sum of its parts.

The art of soaking chickpeas for chana curry is one that shouldn’t be overlooked. It’s more than just a preparatory step; it’s a component that significantly influences the outcome of the dish.

How Olive Oil Enhances Chana Curry

While many traditional chana curry recipes call for the use of ghee or vegetable oil, olive oil presents an interesting alternative that can take your curry to the next level.

It brings a unique, fruity richness that complements the spices beautifully. The oil doesn’t overpower but rather contributes a subtle, nuanced quality to the dish.

Some may argue that olive oil isn’t traditional in Indian cooking. While that may be true, culinary boundaries are meant to be explored. Olive oil not only enriches the curry but also offers health benefits. It’s packed with antioxidants and healthy fats, making it a heart-healthy choice.

Choosing the right olive oil is also critical. For chana curry, a high-quality extra virgin olive oil works wonders. It’s unrefined and contains more natural vitamins and minerals found in olives.

However, the fruity undertones of extra virgin olive oil can vary depending on its origin, providing an additional layer of complexity to the curry.

It’s also essential to add the olive oil at the right time during cooking. Since olive oil has a lower smoking point compared to other oils, it’s best to add it at a medium heat setting. This way, the oil’s health benefits and flavours remain intact.

All in all, the use of olive oil in chana curry is an example of how a small change can have a meaningful impact. It brings a different dimension to the dish, enhancing its flavour profile while also upping its nutritional value.

Check Out These Other Recipes:

If you’re like me and you just can’t get enough of chana curry, you’re in for a treat! My culinary adventure through the world of curry and South Asian dishes doesn’t stop here.

Oh, honey, we’re just getting started. Imagine taking that aromatic chickpea magic to another level with a Creamy Coconut Chickpea Curry. Yes, it’s as divine as it sounds—coconut milk swirled into a symphony of spices, with chickpeas basking in the rich, creamy sauce.

But wait, there’s more. Have you ever tried Chikar Chole? It’s chana curry’s glamorous sibling; it struts onto your plate with a saucy attitude that says, “I’m here to impress.” We’re talking chickpeas but transformed into an experience so lavish you’d think they were served at royal banquets.

Now, let’s get into some meaty matters. If you’re fond of the spice dance that chana curry brings, then Chicken Chana will resonate with your tastebuds. Picture this: tender chunks of chicken swimming with chickpeas in a pot of pure deliciousness. I’ve been there, I’ve tasted it, and you should too.

Vegetarians, I haven’t forgotten you. How about a delightful Egg and Potato Curry? Think of it as a chana curry that invited egg and potato to the party. The trio creates a mouth-watering mishmash of textures and flavours that will have you saying, “More, please!”

But let’s not forget about Palak Chana. Imagine your beloved chana curry, but now it’s been on a health kick, flexing its muscles with a generous helping of spinach. It’s a complete meal that feels both comforting and virtuous, like wrapping yourself in a warm, fuzzy blanket while reading a self-help book.

I encourage you to don your apron and try these out for yourself! And don’t forget to leave your thoughts and maybe even some culinary love stories in the comments below. Trust me; you’ll want to taste these.

Chana Curry

Chana Curry

by Nabeela Kauser
This authentic chana masala is a popular breakfast recipe all across India and Pakistan. Fresh chickpeas are lathered in a delicious and spicy masala sauce.Serve alongside a side of puri for a traditional desi breakfast.
4.97 from 55 votes
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Indian, Pakistani
Servings 6
Calories 374 kcal

Ingredients

  • 500 g Chickpeas Chana
  • 150 ml Olive Oil
  • 2 Onions
  • 1 tbsp Garlic Paste
  • 2 Tomatoes
  • 1 tbsp Turmeric Powder Haldi
  • 1 tsp Chilli Powder
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 2 tsp Cumin Powder Jeera
  • 1 Green Chillies
  • 600 ml Water
  • 1 handful Coriander For garnish

Instructions

  • If using fresh chickpeas, then leave to soak in at least 600ml of water overnight
  • Add the oil into a pan and heat on medium heat until warm
  • Add the diced onions and cook for 4-5 minutes on medium heat until softened and golden brown
  • Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for a further 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes have softened.
  • Add the salt, chilli powder, turmeric powder, garlic paste and green chilli then cook the spices for 3-4 minutes
  • Remove 100ml of the water from the chickpeas and add the pan to ensure that the spices do not burn and cook for another 5 minutes
  • Drain the chickpeas and set aside the remaining water then add the drained chickpeas to the mixture and reduce the heat to medium before cooking for 2-3 minutes
  • Add 500ml of the drained chickpea water and cook for 1 hour until the oil has risen to the top which will indicate that the curry is cooked – the chickpeas may take longer than 1 hour to cook and if the water has evaporated you may add more water to help cook the chickpeas
  • Add the cumin powder then cook for 2-3 minutes
  • Finely chop the coriander then add into the pan and cook 1-2 minutes
  • Serve alongside puri and enjoy!

Video

Notes

Nutritional facts:
The provision of nutritional information is done merely as a courtesy and should not be taken as a guarantee.

Nutrition

Calories: 374kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 9gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 435mgPotassium: 451mgFibre: 8gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 472IUVitamin C: 11mgCalcium: 71mgIron: 4mg
Keyword Chana, Chickpeas, Cooking, Curry, Food, Lentils, Recipe
Tried this recipe?Mention @CookwithNabeela or tag #CookwithNabeela!

Latest comments (7)

payalsflavor

Hi, This chana curry is an absolute delight! The combination of tender chickpeas, aromatic spices, and rich, flavorful curry sauce creates a perfect harmony of taste and texture.

Each bite is a burst of savory goodness that leaves you satisfied and craving more. A must-try for anyone who appreciates the heartiness and warmth of a well-prepared curry.

Cook with Nabeela

Hi, I'm Nabeela!

I love to cook! I want to share with you my favourite, delicious family-friendly recipes. I want to inspire you to create fantastic food for your family every day.

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