Kala Chana Masala Recipe: A Flavorful North Indian Delight
Kala Chana Masala is a hearty and wholesome dish from the North Indian region, renowned for its rich, robust flavors and high-protein content. Made with brown chickpeas (Kala Chana), this recipe combines aromatic spices with the earthiness of the chickpeas, making it a perfect accompaniment for flatbreads like puri or paratha. Rich in protein and fiber, it’s an ideal choice for vegetarians looking for a nutritious and filling meal.
Here’s how you can make this simple yet satisfying Kala Chana Masala at home.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Kala Chana (Brown Chickpeas) | 1 Cup |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Ginger (grated) | 1 inch |
| Garlic (mashed) | 2 cloves |
| Cinnamon Stick (Dalchini) | 1 inch |
| Homemade Tomato Puree | 1/4 cup |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 1 teaspoon |
| Figaro Pure Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Coriander Leaves (roughly chopped) | 4 sprigs |
Preparation Time: 120 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 155 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Dinner
Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Instructions:
-
Soak the Kala Chana:
Begin by thoroughly washing the brown chickpeas. Once washed, soak them in 2 cups of water for at least 6 hours, or ideally, overnight. Soaking the chickpeas helps to soften them and reduces cooking time. -
Pressure Cook the Chickpeas:
After soaking, drain the chickpeas and transfer them to a pressure cooker. Add 2 ½ cups of water and cook the chickpeas for 6-7 whistles over high heat. Once done, reduce the heat to low and cook for an additional 15 minutes to ensure the chickpeas are tender. Set them aside. -
Prepare the Masala Base:
Heat 2 tablespoons of Figaro Pure Olive Oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the grated ginger, chopped onion, and mashed garlic to the pan. Sauté for a few seconds until the onion becomes translucent and the mixture is aromatic. -
Add the Spices:
To the sautéed onion and ginger-garlic mixture, add the homemade tomato puree, turmeric powder, coriander powder, garam masala powder, and red chili powder. Stir the spices well to combine with the onion mixture, allowing them to release their rich aroma. -
Incorporate the Cooked Chickpeas:
Add the cooked Kala Chana (brown chickpeas) to the masala mixture. Stir everything together, ensuring the chickpeas are well-coated with the spice mixture. -
Simmer and Adjust Consistency:
Allow the mixture to come to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to blend and infuse into the chickpeas. If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add a bit of water and let it simmer further to reach the desired texture. Adjust the salt and spices to taste. -
Final Touch:
Once the masala has thickened to your liking, turn off the heat. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for an added freshness and flavor. -
Serve:
Serve your Kala Chana Masala hot with fluffy puris or parathas. It can also be enjoyed with steamed rice or as a standalone dish.
Tips for the Best Kala Chana Masala:
- Soaking the Chickpeas: For best results, soak the chickpeas overnight. This will ensure they cook faster and more evenly.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: You can adjust the level of heat by reducing or increasing the amount of red chili powder according to your taste.
- Consistency Control: If you like your Kala Chana Masala to be more soupy, add a little more water during the simmering process. For a thicker curry, let it cook uncovered for a longer time.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200-250 kcal |
| Protein | 12-15 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 35-40 grams |
| Fat | 8-10 grams |
| Fiber | 8-10 grams |
| Sodium | 200-300 mg |
Why Kala Chana Masala?
Kala Chana Masala is not only rich in protein but also a good source of dietary fiber, iron, and essential vitamins. Brown chickpeas (Kala Chana) are often considered a superfood due to their low glycemic index and high satiety factor, making them perfect for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. The spices used in this dish, including turmeric and garam masala, have anti-inflammatory properties and contribute to the dish’s signature flavor.
Kala Chana Masala is a perfect meal to enjoy on a cozy evening, offering a delicious combination of flavors and a satisfying, healthy meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this recipe is simple to make yet bursting with authentic taste.
