Black Chana Masala Recipe
If you’re looking for a hearty, high-protein vegetarian dish that packs a punch of flavor, then Black Chana Masala is the perfect recipe to try. This traditional Rajasthani dish is made with black chickpeas (kala chana), which are cooked in a flavorful blend of spices and topped off with fresh coriander and a squeeze of lemon. It’s a simple, healthy, and filling option that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Black chickpeas (Kala Chana) | 2 cups (soaked overnight) |
| Oil | As needed |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Mustard seeds (Rai) | 1 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Green chilies, finely chopped | 2 |
| Wheat flour (Atta) | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Water | As needed |
| Red chili powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Coriander powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Lemon juice | 3/4 teaspoon |
| Fresh coriander leaves, finely chopped | 3 sprigs |
Preparation Time:
10 minutes
Cooking Time:
30 minutes
Total Time:
40 minutes
Servings:
4 servings
Cuisine:
Rajasthani
Course:
Lunch
Diet:
High-Protein Vegetarian
Instructions:
-
Cook the Black Chickpeas:
Start by cooking the black chickpeas in a pressure cooker. Add water to the chickpeas and cook until they release 3 whistles. Afterward, remove the water and set the cooked chickpeas aside. -
Prepare the Tempering:
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and asafoetida. Let them splutter for about 10 seconds. Then, add the finely chopped green chilies and cook them for another 30 seconds, releasing their aroma. -
Prepare the Flour Mixture:
While the tempering is being prepared, take a small bowl and mix the wheat flour with some water to make a smooth slurry. Set it aside for later. -
Cook the Chickpeas:
Now, add the cooked black chickpeas to the pan and mix them with the tempering. Stir them well for about 30 seconds to allow the spices to coat the chickpeas evenly. -
Add the Spices:
Add red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, salt, and the wheat flour mixture to the pan. Stir everything together thoroughly, and let it cook for about 3 minutes. This step helps the spices meld together and infuse the chickpeas with flavor. -
Final Touches:
Once the chickpeas are cooked and well-coated in spices, add lemon juice for a tangy kick. Stir well and garnish the dish with fresh coriander leaves. -
Serve:
Serve your delicious Black Chana Masala hot, ideally with dal fry, boondi raita, and phulka (Indian flatbreads). This dish makes for a fulfilling and nutritious meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Nutritional Benefits:
- High in Protein: The main ingredient, black chickpeas, is an excellent source of plant-based protein, making this dish perfect for vegetarians and those looking to increase their protein intake.
- Rich in Fiber: Black chana is also high in dietary fiber, aiding digestion and keeping you full longer.
- Packed with Spices: The combination of spices like cumin, mustard, and coriander not only adds flavor but also offers various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties.
- Vitamins and Minerals: This dish provides essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the lemon juice and fresh coriander, and iron from the chickpeas.
Tips for Perfecting Black Chana Masala:
- Soaking the black chickpeas overnight helps them cook faster and results in a creamier texture.
- If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can reduce the water or add more flour mixture to the pan.
- Adjust the spice levels according to your preference. If you like it spicier, add more green chilies or chili powder.
- For an even richer flavor, you can temper the spices in ghee instead of oil.
Black Chana Masala is not only flavorful but also healthy, making it a great addition to your regular meal rotation. Whether you’re preparing it for lunch or dinner, this dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making it a versatile and satisfying option for any occasion.
