Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, healthy, and quick? Then look no further! This one-pan chana masala recipe is your answer to easy, delicious, and satisfying homemade cooking. It's perfect for busy weeknights and requires minimal cleanup – a major plus for any home cook. This quick dinner recipe is packed with protein and flavor, making it a fantastic option for healthy meals. Get ready to experience the best recipes with this simple and adaptable dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, 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 (optional, for heat)
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro, for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or naan bread, for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pan or skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Bloom the Spices
Add the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pan. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This process, called blooming, releases the full flavor of the spices.
Step 3: Simmer the Chana Masala
Stir in the rinsed chickpeas, undrained diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded.
Step 4: Season and Serve
Season the chana masala with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the chopped cilantro before serving. Serve hot over cooked rice or with naan bread for a complete and delicious meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. For a milder dish, omit it altogether or use a pinch. For extra heat, add a chopped chili pepper along with the onions.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like chopped bell peppers, spinach, or cauliflower to make this dish even more nutritious and flavorful. Add them along with the chickpeas.
- Make it creamy: For a creamier chana masala, stir in a dollop of plain yogurt or coconut milk at the end of cooking.
- Meal prep friendly: This recipe is great for meal prepping. Make a large batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week for quick and easy lunches or dinners.
Variations:
- Lemon Chana Masala: Add the juice of half a lemon at the end of cooking for a bright and zesty twist.
- Potato Chana Masala: Add 1-2 diced potatoes along with the chickpeas for a heartier dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of plant-based protein and fiber. The exact nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This quick dinner Indian veg recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and healthy food recipes that don't require hours in the kitchen. It’s a great addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy!