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Indian chana masala chickpea curry with tomato gravy, cilantro, rice, and naan.

Indian Chana Masala (Chickpea Curry)

Tender chickpeas simmered in a fragrant tomato, onion, garlic, ginger, and spice gravy for a satisfying Indian curry.
Servings 4 servings
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon
  • Chef's knife
  • Rice cooker or saucepan

Ingredients

Chana Masala

  • 3 cups cooked chickpeas drained
  • 2 tbsp neutral oil
  • 1 large yellow onion finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger grated
  • 2 large tomatoes finely chopped
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1 cup water plus more as needed
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice fresh

To Serve

  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 4 servings cooked basmati rice or naan for serving

Instructions

Cook the Masala:

  • Heat the oil in a large skillet. Cook the onion for 8 to 10 minutes until golden.
  • Add the garlic and ginger and cook for 1 minute. Stir in cumin, coriander, garam masala, and turmeric.
  • Add the tomatoes and cook for 8 to 10 minutes until thick and glossy.

Simmer and Serve:

  • Add the chickpeas and water. Simmer uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes, mashing a few chickpeas into the sauce to thicken it.
  • Stir in lemon juice, taste for salt, and finish with cilantro. Serve with basmati rice or naan.

Notes

  • Add a splash of water if the curry becomes too thick.
  • For extra tang, add a pinch of amchur powder with the other spices.
  • Chana masala tastes even better after resting overnight.

Nutrition

Calories: 390kcalCarbohydrates: 58gProtein: 15gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 520mgFiber: 14gSugar: 9g
Calories: 390kcal
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Keyword: Chana Masala, Chickpea Curry, Vegetarian Curry