Black Chana Masala – A Flavorful Indian Delight
Description:
Kala Chana Masala, or Black Chickpea Curry, is a delicious and hearty Indian dish made from black chickpeas, which are smaller and slightly firmer than the common white chickpeas. This dish is typically prepared in a rich, aromatic spiced gravy, delivering a burst of flavors. It is a perfect vegetarian option for any meal, served with rice or Indian bread (roti). It is moderately spiced, making it ideal for those who enjoy a balance of flavor without overwhelming heat.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dried black chickpeas | 175g (or 400g tin of cooked chickpeas) |
| Oil/ghee | 2 tbsp |
| Cumin seeds | 1 tsp |
| Large onion, finely minced | 1 |
| Ginger, minced | 5 cm piece |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 4 |
| Green chilis, minced | 1–2 |
| Chopped tomatoes (tinned or fresh) | 200g |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Chili powder | 1 tsp |
| Turmeric powder | ½ tsp |
| Kasoori methi (fenugreek leaves) | 1 tsp |
| Coriander powder | 1 tsp |
| Garam masala | 1 tsp |
| Fresh coriander, chopped | Handful |
| Lemon juice | 1 lemon |
Allergen Information:
This Black Chana Masala recipe contains no common allergens, making it suitable for most individuals. However, if you are using ghee, please note that it is derived from dairy. If you are vegan or have dairy allergies, you can substitute the ghee with vegetable oil or other plant-based fat options.
Dietary Preferences:
- Vegetarian: This dish is completely vegetarian, with no meat or animal-based products (other than ghee, which can be substituted for a vegan alternative).
- Vegan Option: Simply replace the ghee with vegetable oil to make this recipe fully vegan.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a suitable choice for those with gluten sensitivities.
Instructions for Preparing Black Chana Masala:
-
Soak the Chickpeas:
Begin by washing the dried black chickpeas thoroughly. Soak them in 1.5L of water overnight, or use boiling water and soak for a minimum of 6 hours. This will help soften the chickpeas and reduce the cooking time. -
Rinse the Chickpeas:
After soaking, drain the chickpeas and rinse them under fresh water to remove any remaining debris or excess starch. -
Prepare the Base:
In a pressure cooker, heat the oil or ghee over medium heat. Once hot, add the cumin seeds and sauté until they become aromatic and start to sizzle. Immediately add the finely minced onions and sauté until they turn golden brown, which will take around 6–8 minutes. -
Add the Aromatics:
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute or two, stirring continuously to avoid burning the garlic. Next, add the chopped tomatoes, minced ginger, and green chilies. Stir everything together until the tomatoes start breaking down and the masala begins to thicken slightly. -
Spices and Seasoning:
To the cooked tomato base, add salt, chili powder, turmeric powder, kasoori methi (fenugreek leaves), and coriander powder. Stir well to coat all ingredients with the spices, allowing them to meld together and infuse their flavors. -
Add the Chickpeas:
Once the tomatoes have softened and the mixture has become a thick paste, add the soaked black chickpeas to the pot. Pour in 750ml of water and stir everything together to combine. -
Pressure Cook:
Seal the pressure cooker with its lid and cook the mixture under high pressure for about 30 minutes. If you are using a stovetop, cooking will take about 2 hours. Be sure to monitor the dish and check the chickpeas to ensure they are tender but still hold their shape, as black chickpeas tend to remain slightly firmer than white chickpeas. -
Release the Pressure:
Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally before opening the cooker. Check if the chickpeas are cooked to your desired tenderness. If they are still a little firm, you can cook them for a bit longer with the lid on, allowing them to soften further. -
Adjust the Consistency:
Bring the curry to a simmer and adjust the consistency of the gravy. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for a while. If you prefer more of a gravy-like consistency, feel free to add additional water. -
Finishing Touches:
Once you are satisfied with the consistency of the dish, stir in garam masala and chopped fresh coriander for a fragrant finish. You can squeeze in some lemon juice to brighten up the flavors and add a refreshing tang to the curry. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Black Chana Masala hot with steamed rice, naan, or roti. Enjoy the burst of flavors from the blend of spices and the richness of the chickpeas.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 220-250 kcal (depending on the use of oil or ghee)
- Protein: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 8g (with ghee) or 5g (with oil)
- Fiber: 8g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Cholesterol: 10mg (with ghee, or 0mg with oil)
Tips and Recommendations:
- Soaking Chickpeas: Ensure you soak the black chickpeas for at least 6 hours or overnight. This step is crucial for achieving the best texture in the curry and reducing the overall cooking time.
- Pressure Cooker: If you don’t have a pressure cooker, a regular saucepan or pot can be used. However, it will significantly increase the cooking time (approximately 2 hours).
- Spice Level: Adjust the quantity of green chilies according to your preference for heat. If you prefer a milder curry, you can reduce the number of chilies or even omit them.
- Ghee vs Oil: Ghee provides a rich, aromatic flavor, but if you’re aiming for a lighter dish or prefer a vegan version, vegetable oil works just as well.
- Garnish: Fresh coriander and a squeeze of lemon juice add a delightful freshness to the dish, balancing the deep, savory flavors.
Conclusion:
Black Chana Masala is a delightful and satisfying vegetarian dish that is full of flavor and nutrients. The combination of tender black chickpeas, a fragrant blend of spices, and the addition of fresh coriander and lemon juice make it a perfect comfort food. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. With its medium spice level and hearty texture, this dish is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a special dinner gathering.
Enjoy the bold, earthy flavors of this Black Chana Masala with your favorite side dishes, and savor the warmth and richness of Indian home-cooked cuisine.
