Chickpea Tikka Masala Recipe
Indulge in the rich, aromatic flavors of Chickpea Tikka Masala, a delightful North Indian dish that promises to satisfy your cravings for a hearty, plant-based meal. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with protein, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy and delicious lunch. Whether served over fluffy steamed rice, aromatic jeera pulao, or warm tawa parathas, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Kabuli Chana (White Chickpeas) | 1 cup (soaked overnight in water) |
| Onion | 1 (chopped) |
| Tomatoes | 2 (chopped) |
| Ginger | 1 inch (chopped) |
| Garlic | 4 cloves (chopped) |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Cumin powder (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 1 teaspoon |
| Garam masala powder | 2 tablespoons |
| Coconut milk | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 280 kcal |
| Protein | Approximately 12 g |
| Total Fat | Approximately 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | Approximately 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | Approximately 40 g |
| Fiber | Approximately 10 g |
Preparation Time
| Time Component | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 20 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 45 minutes |
| Total Time | 65 minutes |
| Servings | 4 servings |
Instructions
To embark on your culinary journey with Chickpea Tikka Masala, start by soaking the chickpeas in water overnight, allowing them to plump and soften. The next day, drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas, then pressure cook them with fresh water for approximately 30 minutes or until they are tender and fully cooked. Set them aside for later.
In a spacious kadai (wok), heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, garlic, and ginger, sautéing them gently until the onions soften and turn crispy, which should take about two minutes. This initial step is crucial as it lays the foundation for the rich flavor of your dish.
Once the onions are fragrant, introduce the spice powders: turmeric, red chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and garam masala. Stir well to combine, allowing the spices to bloom in the heat for about a minute, releasing their aromatic essence.
Next, add the chopped tomatoes to the kadai, continuing to sauté until they soften significantly. You may want to mash them lightly with your ladle to help integrate them into the mixture. At this stage, sprinkle in a pinch of salt; this not only seasons the dish but also encourages the tomatoes to cook down faster, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
After the tomatoes have softened and melded with the spices, incorporate the previously cooked chickpeas into the mixture. Gently mix everything together, ensuring that the chickpeas are well coated with the spicy tomato mixture. Taste and adjust the salt as necessary to suit your preference.
Finally, pour in the luscious coconut milk, stirring to combine. This addition will lend a creamy texture and a subtle sweetness that balances the spices beautifully. Allow the Chickpea Tikka Masala to simmer for an additional 5–10 minutes, letting all the flavors marry together.
Serve your Chickpea Tikka Masala hot, alongside a generous portion of steamed rice, flavorful jeera pulao, or freshly made tawa parathas. Each bite will transport you to the vibrant streets of North India, offering a comforting and satisfying meal that is sure to delight your palate.
Enjoy!
With this Chickpea Tikka Masala, you have a nourishing, protein-rich vegetarian dish that not only nourishes the body but also warms the soul. Enjoy your culinary creation with family and friends, and revel in the joy of cooking!
