Kasuri Methi Chole Recipe – A Flavorful Punjabi Delight
Kasuri Methi Chole is a mouthwatering chickpea curry infused with the distinct flavor of Kasuri Methi (dried fenugreek leaves), a popular herb in Punjabi cuisine. This vegan-friendly recipe is not only delicious but also healthy, as it contains no onions, garlic, or dairy, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences. The dish is packed with protein-rich Kabuli Chana (white chickpeas), making it an excellent choice for those looking to manage diabetes or high blood pressure. The addition of Kasuri Methi elevates the flavor profile with a robust aroma, offering a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Why You Should Try Kasuri Methi Chole:
- Vegan & Dairy-Free: Perfect for plant-based diets.
- Rich in Protein: Chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein.
- Diabetic Friendly: Low glycemic index makes it suitable for diabetics.
- High in Fiber: Aids digestion and promotes heart health.
- Nutrient-Dense: Helps in bone health, thanks to the richness of essential minerals.
- Flavorful & Aromatic: The kasuri methi adds an irresistible fragrance and flavor.
This recipe is ideal for a hearty lunch or weeknight dinner when paired with Phulkas (Indian flatbreads) and a side of Palak Raita (spinach yogurt dip). Let’s dive into the preparation process and bring this delicious Punjabi classic to your table!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Kabuli Chana (White Chickpeas) | 400 grams, soaked overnight & boiled |
| Kasuri Methi (Dried Fenugreek Leaves) | 1/2 cup |
| Tomatoes | 2, pureed |
| Cashew Nuts | 8, soaked |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Bay Leaf (Tej Patta) | 1 leaf |
| Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Green Chilli | 1, finely chopped (for garnish) |
| Salt | To taste |
| Cinnamon Stick (Dalchini) | 1 stick |
| Cloves (Laung) | 3 |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander (Dhania) Seeds | 2 tablespoons |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Instructions
-
Prep the Chickpeas:
- Wash and soak the Kabuli Chana (chickpeas) overnight. Drain the water before cooking.
- Pressure cook the soaked chickpeas with water for 3 whistles or until soft. Keep them aside.
-
Prepare the Tomato Puree:
- Puree the tomatoes using a blender and set them aside for later use.
-
Dry Roast the Spices:
- In a pan, dry roast the following whole spices on low heat until aromatic:
- Cinnamon Stick
- Cloves
- Cumin Seeds
- Coriander Seeds
- Once roasted, grind these ingredients to a coarse powder using a mixer grinder. Set the spice mix aside.
- In a pan, dry roast the following whole spices on low heat until aromatic:
-
Make the Cashew Paste:
- Soak cashew nuts in water for about 15 minutes.
- Blend the cashews with a little water to make a smooth paste. Set it aside.
-
Cook the Gravy:
- Heat oil in the same pan. Once hot, add the bay leaf and sauté for a minute.
- Add the tomato puree, turmeric powder, and red chili powder to the pan. Cook the mixture for about 2-3 minutes or until the oil starts separating from the tomato gravy.
-
Combine Spices & Cashew Paste:
- Add the prepared cashew paste and garam masala powder to the pan. Stir well and cook for a few minutes until the paste blends nicely with the tomato gravy.
-
Add Chickpeas & Kasuri Methi:
- Now, add the cooked chickpeas to the pan along with a splash of water to achieve your desired consistency for the gravy.
- Sprinkle in the Kasuri Methi (dried fenugreek leaves). Stir well to combine.
-
Simmer & Finish:
- Season with salt to taste and let the gravy simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and thicken.
- Once the gravy reaches your desired consistency, remove the pan from the heat.
-
Garnish & Serve:
- Garnish the dish with freshly chopped green chilies for an added punch of flavor.
Serve the Kasuri Methi Chole with hot Phulkas and a cooling Palak Raita on the side for a complete Punjabi-style meal.
Serving Suggestions
- Phulkas or Naan: Soft, warm Indian flatbreads are perfect for scooping up the flavorful chickpea curry.
- Palak Raita: A yogurt-based dip with spinach that adds a cool contrast to the spiciness of the curry.
- Rice: If you prefer, serve with steamed basmati rice or jeera rice for a wholesome meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 15 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 45 grams |
| Fiber | 9 grams |
| Fat | 12 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 350 mg |
| Potassium | 430 mg |
| Iron | 3 mg |
| Calcium | 50 mg |
Health Benefits
- High Protein: The Kabuli Chana offers a substantial amount of plant-based protein, making this dish ideal for vegetarians and vegans.
- Bone Health: Rich in iron and calcium, it supports bone density and strength.
- Aids Digestion: The fiber content helps promote healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.
- Diabetic Friendly: With a low glycemic index, chickpeas are a great choice for managing blood sugar levels.
- Heart Health: High in soluble fiber, the dish helps lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health.
Enjoy the rich, aromatic flavors of Kasuri Methi Chole for a wholesome and satisfying meal. This Punjabi recipe brings together simplicity and taste, making it an excellent choice for any meal occasion.
