Channa Masala Chole Chana - By Vahchef @ Vahrehvah.com

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.

Soak chickpeas overnight or for at least 6 hours.

Boil the chickpeas and retain the water; optionally add a tea bag for color and baking soda to help them puff up.

Heat oil in a heavy pan.

Add whole garam masala (cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, bay leaf, mace) and cumin seeds; let them splutter.

Add chopped onions and salt to the pan; cook until onions are slightly brown.

Add turmeric and ginger garlic paste; cook until the paste is slightly cooked.

Add chopped tomatoes and green chilies; cook until the tomatoes are soft and well incorporated.

Add channa masala powder to the mixture; ensure tomatoes are fully cooked before adding moisture.

Add water from the boiled chickpeas to the mixture; mash some chickpeas to help thicken the sauce.

Add the remaining channa masala powder and ensure chickpeas are fully cooked before adding them to the mixture.

Check the taste and adjust salt; add lemon juice for extra sourness if desired.

Finish by adding chopped coriander to the dish.

Serve with poori, batura, or roti, along with lime wedges and sliced onions.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary