Dry Masala Chickpeas Recipe (Chhole Masala)
An Easy and Flavorful Punjabi Dish, Perfect for Lunch
Chhole Masala is a simple, yet incredibly flavorful recipe made without onions and garlic. It’s cooked with ginger and aromatic spices, offering a delightful taste that can be made with everyday ingredients. This dish is ideal for lunch and pairs wonderfully with hot puris and a side of refreshing tomato-onion-cucumber raita.

Cuisine: Punjabi
Course: Lunch
Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Ingredients:
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Kabuli Chana (Chickpeas) | 1 cup (soaked overnight, then boiled) |
Oil | As needed |
Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 small teaspoon |
Ginger Paste | 1/4 small teaspoon |
Chana Masala Powder | 2 teaspoons |
Red Chili Powder | 2 teaspoons |
Cumin Powder (Jeera Powder) | 1/4 small teaspoon |
Amchur Powder (Dry Mango Powder) | 2 teaspoons |
Turmeric Powder | 1/4 small teaspoon |
Coriander Powder | 1 tablespoon |
Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Serves: 4-6
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Chickpeas:
Start by pressure cooking the soaked Kabuli Chana (chickpeas) for about 3 whistles, until soft and tender. Drain the water and set the chickpeas aside. -
Heat Oil & Temper Spices:
In a pan, heat some oil and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter (after about 10 seconds), add the ginger paste and sauté for 30 seconds. -
Add Spices:
Now, add the Chana Masala powder, red chili powder, amchur powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and salt. Stir well and cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors. -
Mix in the Chickpeas:
Add the cooked chickpeas to the pan. Mix thoroughly so the chickpeas are well-coated with the spice mixture. Let it cook for another minute to ensure the flavors are blended perfectly. -
Garnish and Serve:
Turn off the heat and garnish the dry masala chickpeas with fresh coriander leaves. -
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the Chhole Masala hot with crispy puris and a side of cool tomato-onion-cucumber raita for the perfect Punjabi lunch experience.
This dry masala chickpeas recipe is a protein-packed, flavorful dish that can be prepared quickly and easily with pantry staples. Enjoy the delightful flavors of this Punjabi classic, ideal for a satisfying and nutritious meal!