Golden Chana Masala

Chana Masala is a beloved dish in Indian cuisine, renowned for its vibrant flavors and hearty ingredients. This Golden Chana Masala is a delightful vegetarian option that brings warmth and nourishment to your table. The combination of chickpeas with aromatic spices and fresh ingredients creates a wholesome meal perfect for any occasion. Serve it with warm brown rice or flatbread, and you have a dish that is both satisfying and comforting.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Golden Chana Masala recipe is a keeper for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s packed with protein and fiber from the chickpeas, making it a filling dish that is perfect for lunch or dinner. The vibrant yellow tomatoes lend a beautiful color and a touch of sweetness, balancing the spices beautifully. Additionally, the use of fresh herbs and spices elevates the flavor profile, making every bite a burst of deliciousness. It’s also a one-pot dish, which means less cleanup for you. Plus, it’s simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for entertaining guests.

What You’ll Gather

• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
• 1 tablespoon refined/unscented coconut oil
• 1 cooking onion, fine dice
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and minced
• 1 small fresh chili, seeded and minced
• 1 strip of lemon peel, white pith and all, minced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 ½ cups diced fresh yellow tomatoes
• ½ cup vegetable stock
• 2 cups cooked chickpeas
• Sea salt and ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Chopped cilantro, for serving
• Warm brown rice or flatbread, for serving

Must-Have Equipment

• Large skillet or saucepan – For cooking the chana masala.
• Measuring spoons and cups – To ensure you get the right amounts of each ingredient.
• Cutting board and knife – For dicing onions and preparing fresh ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring and mixing the ingredients as they cook.

Golden Chana Masala: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Toast the Spices

Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cumin and coriander seeds, toasting them for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. Once toasted, remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the coconut oil and let it melt. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and lightly golden. Stir in the minced garlic, ginger, and chili, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Spices

Sprinkle in the ground turmeric and curry powder. Stir well to combine, allowing the spices to cook for about 30 seconds to release their flavors.

Step 4: Incorporate the Tomatoes

Add the minced lemon peel, tomato paste, and diced yellow tomatoes to the skillet. Stir everything together, allowing the tomatoes to soften for about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Pour in the vegetable stock and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.

Step 6: Add the Chickpeas

Stir in the cooked chickpeas and season with sea salt and black pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the chickpeas to heat through and absorb the flavors.

Step 7: Finish with Lemon Juice

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the lemon juice. This adds a bright acidity to the dish that balances the spices beautifully.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the Golden Chana Masala into bowls, garnishing with chopped cilantro. Serve it warm with brown rice or your favorite flatbread for a complete meal.

International Equivalents

• Cumin seeds – Jeera (Hindi)
• Coriander seeds – Dhaniya (Hindi)
• Coconut oil – Nariyal ka tel (Hindi)
• Chickpeas – Chole (Hindi)
• Vegetable stock – Sabzi ka broth (Hindi)

Missteps & Fixes

Even the best cooks can run into a few hiccups. Here are some common missteps and how to fix them:

• Too spicy? If your Golden Chana Masala turns out too spicy, add a dollop of yogurt or coconut milk to mellow the heat.
• Not enough flavor? If the dish lacks depth, consider adding more salt, a splash of lemon juice, or even a pinch of sugar to balance flavors.
• Too thick? If the sauce becomes too thick during cooking, simply add a little more vegetable stock or water to reach your desired consistency.
• Not enough texture? For added crunch, top the dish with toasted nuts or seeds before serving.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

This Golden Chana Masala can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep. Here’s how to store it:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to loosen the sauce.

Reader Questions

Can I use canned chickpeas instead of cooked ones?

Absolutely! Canned chickpeas are a convenient option. Just rinse and drain them before adding them to the dish, and reduce the cooking time slightly.

What can I substitute for yellow tomatoes?

If yellow tomatoes are unavailable, you can use regular red tomatoes. Just keep in mind that the color will change, but the flavor will still be delicious.

Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

Yes! You can increase the amount of fresh chili used, or add a pinch of red chili powder for an extra kick. Adjust according to your heat preference.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini during the cooking process for added nutrition and flavor.

Let’s Eat

Now that you’ve crafted this heavenly Golden Chana Masala, it’s time to dig in! The combination of spices, chickpeas, and fresh tomatoes creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying a quiet night at home, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t forget to pair it with warm brown rice or your favorite flatbread to soak up every last bit of the delicious sauce. Enjoy your culinary journey with this delightful Golden Chana Masala!