Chana masaledar

Chana Masaledar Recipe - Spiced Peas Curry from India

Region / culture: India | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Chana masaledar is a popular Indian dish made with chickpeas cooked in a flavorful and spicy masala sauce. This dish is perfect for vegetarians and vegans looking for a protein-packed meal that is also delicious and satisfying.

History

Chana masaledar has its origins in North Indian cuisine, where chickpeas are a staple ingredient. The dish is traditionally made with a blend of aromatic spices and herbs, creating a rich and flavorful curry that is perfect for serving with rice or naan.

Ingredients

20 oz (567 g) of cooked chickpeas
3 tbsp of oil
0.25 tsp of whole cumin seeds
1 medium onion, chopped
0.25 tsp of cinnamon
0.25 tsp of nutmeg
0.25 tsp of cloves
1 tsp of coriander
2 garlic cloves, minced
1.5-inch piece of ginger
1 tbsp of tomato paste
0.5 tsp of salt
0.13 tsp of cayenne (or more)
0.5 tsp of amchoor (or 1 tbsp of lemon juice)

How to prepare

1. Heat oil in a heavy pot.
2. Add cumin seeds.
3. When the cumin seeds begin to darken, add the onion.
4. Stir and fry for 7 minutes.
5. Turn the heat to low and add cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and coriander.
6. Mix well and add garlic and ginger.
7. Stir and fry for 2 minutes.
8. Add the paste.
9. Add chickpeas, salt, cayenne, and amchoor.
10. Mix well, cover, and cook for 10 minutes.
11. You may have to add an extra 2 tbsp or so of stock.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
Use coconut milk for a creamy twist on this traditional dish.
Garnish with toasted cashews or almonds for added crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the spices in oil before adding the other ingredients to enhance their flavors.

- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.

- For a creamier texture, you can mash some of the chickpeas before adding them to the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Chana masaledar is best served hot with steamed rice, naan bread, or roti. You can also garnish it with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Use a heavy-bottomed pot to cook the masala sauce evenly.

- Cover the pot while cooking the chickpeas to ensure they are tender and flavorful.

- Stir the dish occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use canned chickpeas instead of cooking them from scratch for a quicker preparation time.

- Substitute garam masala for the individual spices listed in the recipe for a shortcut.

Make Ahead Tips

Chana masaledar can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve chana masaledar in a decorative bowl garnished with fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of garam masala for an attractive presentation. Pair it with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread for a complete meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Chana masaledar pairs well with a side of cucumber raita or a fresh green salad for a balanced and satisfying meal. You can also serve it with pickled onions or mango chutney for added flavor.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover chana masaledar in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of chana masaledar contains approximately 300 calories, making it a satisfying and filling meal option.

Carbohydrates

Chana masaledar is a high-carbohydrate dish due to the chickpeas and spices used in the recipe. Each serving contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

This dish is relatively low in fat, with each serving containing around 8 grams of fat. The oil used for cooking adds to the overall fat content of the dish.

Proteins

Chana masaledar is a great source of plant-based protein, with each serving providing around 15 grams of protein. Chickpeas are known for their high protein content, making this dish a nutritious option for vegetarians and vegans.

Vitamins and minerals

Chickpeas are rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and folate. The spices used in the masala sauce also contribute to the overall nutritional value of the dish.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens, making it suitable for most dietary restrictions. However, if you have specific allergies, be sure to check the ingredients list for any potential allergens.

Summary

Chana masaledar is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is high in protein and low in fat. It is a great option for vegetarians and vegans looking for a satisfying meal that is also packed with vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Chana masaledar is a delicious and nutritious Indian dish made with chickpeas cooked in a flavorful masala sauce. This protein-packed meal is perfect for vegetarians and vegans looking for a satisfying and healthy option. Enjoy it with rice, naan, or roti for a complete and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, during a trip to India, that I stumbled upon the delicious dish known as chana masaledar. I had always been a lover of Indian cuisine, so when I tasted this flavorful and aromatic chickpea curry, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

I was staying with a dear friend in Mumbai, who happened to be an excellent cook. She invited me into her kitchen one afternoon to watch her prepare chana masaledar for dinner. As soon as she started grinding the spices and sautéing the onions and tomatoes, I was entranced by the incredible aroma that filled the room. I knew that I had to learn how to make this dish.

My friend patiently showed me each step of the recipe, explaining the importance of toasting the whole spices before grinding them, and the precise timing needed to achieve the perfect balance of flavors. I watched intently as she added the chickpeas to the simmering sauce, allowing them to soak up all the delicious spices.

As we sat down to enjoy the finished dish, I was blown away by the depth of flavor and the complexity of the spices. The chana masaledar was unlike anything I had ever tasted before, and I knew that I had to recreate it in my own kitchen.

When I returned home, I immediately set to work trying to replicate the recipe. I spent hours in the kitchen, grinding spices, sautéing onions, and simmering chickpeas until I finally achieved the perfect balance of flavors. The first bite of my homemade chana masaledar brought me right back to that cozy kitchen in Mumbai, and I felt a sense of accomplishment knowing that I had mastered the recipe.

Over the years, I have continued to perfect my version of chana masaledar, adding my own twists and tweaks to make it truly my own. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, who have all fallen in love with the dish just as I did.

One of my favorite memories is teaching my grandchildren how to make chana masaledar. They would eagerly gather around the kitchen counter, watching with wide eyes as I ground the spices and sautéed the onions. I loved passing down this cherished recipe to them, knowing that it would be a part of our family for generations to come.

As I sit here reminiscing about my journey to discover the recipe for chana masaledar, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences and people that have shaped my love for cooking. From that fateful day in Mumbai to the countless meals shared with loved ones, this dish holds a special place in my heart.

And as I take a bite of the spicy, aromatic chickpea curry that I have lovingly prepared, I am reminded of the joy and memories that food can bring. In every bite of chana masaledar, I taste the flavors of India, the warmth of friendship, and the love that has gone into creating this dish. And for that, I am eternally grateful.