Delicious Kala Chana Masala Recipe – Healthy & High-Protein Rajasthani Dish
Black Chana Masala Recipe
Kala Chana Masala, a traditional Rajasthani dish, is a delightful combination of black chickpeas (black gram) and an array of aromatic spices. This dish can be enjoyed as a filling salad or served as a vegetable, making it a versatile option for any meal. It is especially perfect for lunch, where it pairs wonderfully with Dal Fry, Boondi Raita, and Phulka. This high-protein vegetarian dish is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a healthy choice, ideal for packing in lunch boxes for both adults and kids.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Black Gram (Kala Chana) | 2 cups (soaked overnight) |
| Oil | As required |
| Cumin Seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Mustard Seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Green Chillies (finely chopped) | 2 |
| Wheat Flour | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Water | As required |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Coriander Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Lemon Juice | 3/4 teaspoon |
| Fresh Coriander Leaves (finely chopped) | 3 sprigs |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 6 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
Preparation Time
| Task | Time (in minutes) |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 10 minutes |
| Cooking | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
Instructions
-
Cook the Black Chana:
Start by cooking the black chickpeas in a pressure cooker. Add enough water to the cooker, and cook for about 3 whistles. Once done, drain the water and set the chickpeas aside. -
-
Prepare the Spices and Flavour Base:
Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and asafoetida. Allow these to crackle for about 10 seconds. -
Sauté Green Chillies:
Add the finely chopped green chillies to the pan and sauté for another 30 seconds, ensuring the spices blend well together. -
Mix Wheat Flour and Water:
While the chillies are cooking, mix the wheat flour with a little water in a bowl to create a smooth paste. Set this aside for later use. -
Add the Chickpeas:
Now, add the cooked black chickpeas into the pan. Stir them well to coat them evenly with the spices and oil. -
Seasoning and Cooking:
In a small bowl, mix together red chilli powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, salt, and the wheat flour paste. Add this mixture to the chickpeas and stir thoroughly. Cook for an additional 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the spices to cook through. -
Add Lemon Juice and Garnish:
Once the chickpeas are well-coated and cooked, add fresh lemon juice for a tangy kick. Garnish with finely chopped fresh coriander leaves to add freshness and color. -
Serve:
Serve your Black Chana Masala hot, accompanied by Dal Fry, Boondi Raita, and Phulka for a complete and nutritious lunch.
Cooking Tips
- Soaking the Chickpeas: It’s crucial to soak the black chickpeas overnight to ensure they cook evenly and have a tender texture.
- Adjusting the Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the number of green chillies or the amount of red chilli powder according to your spice tolerance.
- Serving Variations: Kala Chana Masala also pairs well with Jeera Rice or Plain Rice for a fulfilling meal.
Enjoy this hearty and nutritious dish that is packed with protein, flavor, and the rich essence of Rajasthani spices. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special lunch, Kala Chana Masala is sure to satisfy your taste buds and nourish your body.
