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Homemade Golden Chana Masala recipe photo

Golden Chana Masala

This Golden Chana Masala is bursting with flavor! Enjoy a hearty meal that's simple to make and perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Keyword: Comfort Food, Hearty, Vegetarian
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Chana Masala:

  • 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
  • 1.5 cups diced fresh yellow tomatoes
  • 0.5 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

Instructions

Preparation Steps:

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

Equipment

  • Large skillet or saucepan
  • Measuring Spoons and Cups
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Notes

  • For a milder dish, adjust the amount of chili according to taste.
  • This dish can be made ahead of time and stored for easy weeknight meals.
  • Feel free to add more vegetables for extra nutrition and flavor.