Kala Chana Salad Recipe – A Nutritious Indian Delight
If you’re looking for a healthy, refreshing, and protein-packed side dish, this Kala Chana Salad is the perfect choice! Made with black chickpeas (kala chana), fresh vegetables, and a burst of lemony tang, this vibrant salad is not only full of flavor but also offers a nutritious boost to your meals. This recipe is ideal for those seeking a vegetarian option that’s rich in protein and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Black Chickpeas (Kala Chana) | 1 cup | Soaked overnight |
| Carrots | 2 | Grated |
| Cucumber | 1 | Peeled and chopped |
| Tomatoes | 2 | Chopped |
| Fresh Coriander (Cilantro) | A handful | Chopped |
| Green Chilies | 2 | Finely chopped |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tablespoon | Freshly squeezed |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Side Dish
Diet: High Protein, Vegetarian
Instructions:
To begin making this Kala Chana Salad, start by soaking the black chickpeas (kala chana) in water overnight. This step softens the chickpeas and ensures they cook faster.
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Cook the Black Chickpeas: Drain the soaked chickpeas and transfer them to a pressure cooker. Add a pinch of salt and enough water to cover the chickpeas. Cook for about 20 minutes or until they are tender. Once cooked, let the pressure release naturally. Open the cooker, drain the excess water, and set the chickpeas aside to cool.
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Prepare the Vegetables: While the chickpeas are cooking, wash and chop the vegetables. Grate the carrots, peel and chop the cucumber, and dice the tomatoes. Chop the green chilies and fresh coriander leaves finely.
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Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked black chickpeas, grated carrots, chopped cucumber, tomatoes, green chilies, coriander leaves, and salt. Drizzle the fresh lemon juice over the mixture.
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Mix and Serve: Toss everything together gently to ensure that the ingredients are well combined. Your Kala Chana Salad is ready to serve!
Serving Suggestion:
This Kala Chana Salad pairs wonderfully with traditional Indian dishes like Panchmel Dal, Bhindi Masala, and Phulka (whole wheat flatbread) for a wholesome meal. It’s light yet satisfying, making it an excellent option for lunch or dinner.
Why Kala Chana?
Kala Chana (black chickpeas) is a nutrient-dense legume that’s not only high in protein but also provides a good source of fiber, iron, and essential vitamins. These chickpeas are perfect for vegetarian diets, offering a rich and hearty texture that complements the fresh vegetables in this salad. The addition of lemon juice and fresh coriander adds a zesty and refreshing touch, making it an ideal side dish.
So, whether you’re looking to boost your protein intake or just need a fresh, healthy side dish, this Kala Chana Salad is an excellent choice. Try this vibrant and delicious recipe today!
