Spice up your weeknight routine with this incredibly flavorful and easy vegetarian Chana Masala recipe! This delicious Indian dish is packed with aromatic spices, tender chickpeas, and a vibrant tomato-based sauce. Perfect for a quick and healthy dinner, it's also surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner cooks. Get ready to impress yourself and your family with this fantastic homemade meal.
Ingredients:
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or naan bread, for serving
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Building the Flavor:
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Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step releases their amazing flavors.
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Add the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and garam masala. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This is crucial for unleashing the full aromatic potential of the spices.
Simmering to Perfection:
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Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained) and chickpeas. Stir well to combine.
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Add the vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded beautifully. The longer it simmers, the richer the taste becomes.
Serving Suggestions:
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Serve hot with cooked rice or naan bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the spiciness. For a milder dish, omit it entirely or use a pinch. For extra heat, add a chopped chili pepper.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, cauliflower, or potatoes for a heartier meal. Add them during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Creaminess: Stir in a dollop of plain yogurt or coconut milk at the end for a creamier texture.
- Make it Ahead: This Chana Masala tastes even better the next day! Make it ahead of time and reheat it gently before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300
- Protein: 15g
- Fiber: 10g
This is a rough estimate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This easy Chana Masala recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It’s a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights and showcases the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine. Enjoy!