How to Cook Spices for Channa Masala | Indian Food

chickpeas

🥗Healthier: black beans

💰Cheaper: split peas

Black beans provide a similar texture and flavor, while split peas are often less expensive.

garam masala

🥗Healthier: homemade spice blend

💰Cheaper: curry powder

Homemade blends can be tailored for health and cost.

green chilies

🥗Healthier: jalapeños

💰Cheaper: bell peppers

Jalapeños add heat, while bell peppers are milder and more affordable.

oil

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

Coconut oil offers unique flavor and health benefits.

Heat oil in a pan until hot.

Add brown mustard seeds and cumin seeds to the hot oil.

Watch for mustard seeds to pop and turn from brown to gray, indicating they've released their flavors.

Add 1 cup of chopped onion to the pan and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.

Add 2 teaspoons of coriander, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric, and 1/2 teaspoon each of cayenne and black pepper to the onions.

Keep a little water handy to prevent spices from scorching; add if necessary.

Once the spices smell nice and toasty, add 2 cups of fresh tomatoes to the pan.

Turn up the heat a little and add salt to taste.

Add lemon juice as a sour ingredient.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary