Homemade Chana Masala

If you’re looking to elevate your weeknight dinners with a dish that’s both hearty and bursting with flavor, look no further than homemade chana masala. This beloved Indian dish features chickpeas simmered in a rich, spiced tomato sauce that is sure to satisfy your taste buds and warm your soul. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe will guide you step-by-step to create a dish that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

Chana masala is a true crowd-pleaser, and for good reason. The combination of tender chickpeas and aromatic spices creates a comforting dish that appeals to vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. It’s also incredibly versatile; you can serve it with rice, naan, or even as a filling in wraps. The savory flavors, coupled with the slight heat from green chilies, make it a delightful experience for your palate. Plus, it’s a dish that’s perfect for meal prep, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights!

Gather These Ingredients

To whip up this delightful homemade chana masala, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 14 ounces dried chickpeas (see note 1)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda (see note 2)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, peeled, quartered, and thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (see note 3)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green chili, minced (see note 4)
• 1 (14-ounce) can whole plum tomatoes, undrained
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon garam masala (see note 5)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (see note 6)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
• Green chilies, for garnish
• Grape tomatoes, quartered, for garnish
• Red onion, thinly sliced, for garnish
• Naan bread, for serving

Gear Checklist

Before you get started, make sure you have the following kitchen gear on hand:

• Large pot – for boiling the chickpeas
• Skillet – for sautéing the spices and aromatics
• Wooden spoon – for stirring
• Measuring spoons – for accurate measurements
• Knife and cutting board – for chopping vegetables

Homemade Chana Masala, Made Easy

Creating homemade chana masala is a straightforward process that can be broken down into a few simple steps.

Step 1: Prepare the Chickpeas

Begin by rinsing the dried chickpeas under cold water. In a large pot, cover the chickpeas with several inches of water and add 1 teaspoon of baking soda. This helps to soften the chickpeas. Soak them overnight, or for a minimum of 8 hours. The next day, drain the chickpeas and rinse them again. In the same pot, add fresh water, bring it to a boil, and cook the chickpeas for about 1 hour, or until they are tender. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown. Next, add the cumin seeds and stir for about 30 seconds to release their flavor.

Step 3: Add Garlic, Ginger, and Green Chili

Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and minced green chili. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the mixture to become fragrant.

Step 4: Incorporate the Tomatoes and Spices

Add the undrained can of whole plum tomatoes and tomato paste to the skillet. Use your wooden spoon to break the tomatoes apart. Sprinkle in the garam masala, ground cumin, red chili powder, ground turmeric, and salt to taste. Stir well to combine.

Step 5: Simmer the Chana Masala

Add the cooked chickpeas to the skillet, mixing them into the sauce. Let everything simmer together for 15-20 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. If the mixture is too thick, feel free to add a splash of water.

Step 6: Final Touches

Once done, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve your homemade chana masala hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves, sliced green chilies, quartered grape tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion. Pair it with warm naan bread for a complete meal.

In-Season Flavor Ideas

To enhance your homemade chana masala even more, consider these seasonal flavor ideas:

• Add fresh spinach or kale for a nutrient boost.
• Incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
• Top with diced avocado for creaminess.
• Serve with a side of pickled vegetables for an added tang.

Chef’s Rationale

Creating homemade chana masala allows you to control the flavors and ingredients entirely. Here are some reasons why this dish stands out:

• Flavor Depth: Slow cooking the spices releases their essential oils, creating a rich and complex flavor profile.
• Customizable: You can adjust the spice levels according to your preference, making it suitable for all palates.
• Health Benefits: Chickpeas are packed with protein and fiber, making this dish both filling and nutritious.

Prep Ahead & Store

If you’re looking to save time, here are some tips for prepping ahead and storing your homemade chana masala:

• Cooked chickpeas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• The chana masala can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to 5 days, allowing the flavors to develop even more.
• For longer storage, freeze the chana masala in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Ask & Learn

Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can use two 15-ounce cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed. Simply skip the soaking and cooking steps.

How can I make it spicier?

If you prefer a spicier chana masala, consider adding more green chilies, or a pinch of cayenne pepper, or increase the amount of red chili powder.

What can I serve with chana masala?

Chana masala pairs wonderfully with basmati rice, quinoa, or naan bread. You can also serve it with a side salad for a lighter option.

Can I make chana masala vegan?

This recipe is naturally vegan as it doesn’t contain any animal products, making it a great choice for plant-based diets!

If you enjoyed making homemade chana masala, why not try your hand at these delicious recipes next?

Ready to Cook?

Now that you have all the details to make your own homemade chana masala, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! This dish is not just about satisfying hunger; it’s about bringing people together and sharing a meal made with love. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to savor every bite!