Kala Desi Chana Recipe – Brown Chickpea Curry
Kala Desi Chana, also known as Brown Chickpea Curry, is a flavorful and aromatic North Indian dish made with whole Bengal gram (Kala Chana) that is both hearty and nutritious. Unlike the white chickpeas, Kala Chana has a distinct earthy flavor, firmer texture, and a unique dark brown skin that holds its shape even after cooking. This curry is made without onions or garlic, relying solely on traditional spices to bring out its rich taste. Whether served in a dry form or with gravy, Kala Desi Chana is the perfect addition to your meal. For a festive touch, pair it with aam ras (mango pulp) to enhance the flavors and make it a celebratory dish.
Cuisine:
North Indian
Course:
Dinner
Diet:
High Protein Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Kala Chana (Brown Chickpeas) | 1 Cup |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Ginger (peeled and grated) | 1-inch piece |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 1 teaspoon |
| Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Coriander Leaves (Dhania) | 4 sprigs, roughly chopped |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Instructions:
-
Soaking the Chickpeas:
Begin by washing and soaking the Kala Chana (Brown Chickpeas) for 6 hours or preferably overnight in 2 cups of water. After soaking, drain the chickpeas in a colander. -
Cooking the Chickpeas:
Transfer the soaked and drained chickpeas to a pressure cooker. Add 2 1/2 cups of water and close the lid of the pressure cooker. Place the weight on and cook the chickpeas over medium heat. Cook until the chickpeas are soft and tender. For best results, ensure the chickpeas are cooked thoroughly. You can also follow standard instructions for cooking lentils or dals if needed. -
Prepare the Spices:
Once the chickpeas are cooked, turn off the heat. With a spoon, gently press the boiled chickpeas to slightly mash them. Set them aside for later use. -
Making the Curry:
In a wok or pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them crackle, releasing their aroma. Add the grated ginger and sautΓ© for a few seconds until fragrant. -
Adding the Ground Spices:
Stir in the turmeric powder, coriander powder, garam masala powder, and red chilli powder. Mix well, allowing the spices to blend. -
Combining with Chickpeas:
Add the cooked Kala Chana (Brown Chickpeas) to the wok. Stir everything together, ensuring the chickpeas are well coated with the spice mixture. -
Simmering the Curry:
Add salt to taste and allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once it begins to boil, reduce the heat to low and simmer the curry for 20-30 minutes. During this time, the spices will infuse into the chickpeas, creating a rich and flavorful dish. If needed, adjust the consistency of the curry by adding water, and let it simmer for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to blend. -
Finishing Touches:
Once the curry is ready and the consistency is to your liking, turn off the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a fresh and aromatic finish. -
Serving Suggestions:
Kala Desi Chana is best served with Phulka (soft Indian flatbread) or Beetroot Raita for a wholesome and satisfying meal. You can also pair it with Aam Ras (mango pulp) for a traditional festive touch.
Tips for the Perfect Kala Desi Chana:
- Soaking Time: The longer you soak the chickpeas, the softer and more flavorful they will become. Soaking overnight is ideal.
- Pressure Cooking: If you don’t have a pressure cooker, you can cook the chickpeas in a regular pot. However, it may take longer to cook, and you may need to add more water.
- Spice Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the amount of chilli powder or garam masala according to your spice preference.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Fiber | 10 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
Kala Desi Chana is a protein-rich, flavorful dish that brings together traditional spices with the nutty taste of brown chickpeas. Itβs a wholesome vegetarian option that fits perfectly into any meal, from simple dinners to festive occasions. Enjoy it with your favorite flatbreads or rice for a fulfilling meal.
