Easy Chana Masala
30 minute, 1-pot chana masala with green chili, cilantro, and garam masala. Easy to make, extremely flavorful, and satisfying. A healthy, plant-based meal.
30 minute, 1-pot chana masala with green chili, cilantro, and garam masala. Easy to make, extremely flavorful, and satisfying. A healthy, plant-based meal.
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tbsp ground coriander
- 2 tbsp fresh ginger minced
- 3 tbsp grape seed oil ((or sub coconut oil))
- 1 medium white or yellow onion finely diced
- 3/4 tsp sea salt ((divided // plus more to taste))
- 6 cloves garlic minced ((6 cloves yield ~3 tbsp))
- 2-3 fresh green chilies sliced with seeds ((i used serrano peppers))
- 1 28-ounce can pureed or finely diced tomatoes ( you’ll add more salt to the dish))
- 2 15-ounce cans chickpeas slightly drained
- 1 tsp garam masala* ((see instructions for diy blend))
- 2-3 tsp coconut sugar
- 2 tbsp lemon juice ((plus more to taste))
- Carbohydrate 2.8789216683405 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.344335000506312 g
- Fiber 0.40856666326006 g
- Protein 0.655213333792589 g
- Saturated Fat 0.0371373333743097 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (9g)
- Sodium 5.91833333756933 mg
- Sugar 2.47035500508044 g
- Trans Fat 0.0665155000830065 g
- Calories 15 calories
Step-by-step
- Heat a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add oil, onion, cumin, and one-third of the salt.
- Add garlic, ginger, cilantro, and green chilies to a mortar and pestle and grind into a rough paste (or use a small food processor). Add to the pan with the onions.
- Add ground coriander, chili powder, and turmeric and stir to coat. Add more oil if needed.
- Add pureed tomatoes and chickpeas and remaining salt. Add water if the mixture is too thick.
- Increase heat to medium-high until simmering, then reduce heat to low or medium-low and simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until thickened. Stir occasionally.
- If you don't have garam masala, make your own by grinding dried red chilies, black peppercorns, cumin seeds, cardamom pods, cloves, and nutmeg.
- When thickened, taste and adjust seasonings. Add more salt, chili powder, or coconut sugar as needed.
- Remove from heat and add lemon juice and garam masala. Stir and let cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and lemon juice. Serve as a stew, with rice, or over roasted sweet potatoes and broccoli.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 1 month.
My Easy, Flavorful Chana Masala Adventure
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like a Herculean task. Weeknights are often a whirlwind of homework, extracurricular activities, and the general chaos that comes with raising a family. But I refuse to compromise on good food, and that's where my love for quick and easy recipes comes in. This Chana Masala recipe is a lifesaver! It’s ready in under 30 minutes, requires minimal cleanup (a huge plus in my book!), and the flavor? Let's just say it rivals anything I've ever ordered from my favorite Indian restaurant.
The secret to this recipe’s incredible taste lies in the fresh ingredients and the simple technique. I love the vibrant colors and the aromatic spices; it's a feast for the senses. The combination of earthy chickpeas, fragrant cilantro, and subtly spicy green chilies creates a symphony of flavor that leaves you feeling satisfied and energized. No complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients needed – just simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a truly special meal.
I often make a large batch on the weekend and store the leftovers for quick weeknight lunches or dinners. It reheats beautifully, and the flavors actually deepen over time! This makes meal prep a breeze. I often serve it over brown rice, but it’s equally delicious spooned over roasted sweet potatoes and broccoli for a more substantial meal. Sometimes, for a lighter option, I'll have it as a hearty stew on its own. Its versatility is one of its greatest assets.
What I truly appreciate about this Chana Masala is its adaptability. You can adjust the spice level to your preference, adding more or fewer chilies depending on your heat tolerance. Feeling creative? Experiment with different vegetables – cauliflower, peas, or spinach would all be fantastic additions. This recipe is a blank canvas for culinary exploration.
Beyond its convenience and deliciousness, this Chana Masala is a nutritious powerhouse. Chickpeas are packed with protein and fiber, keeping you feeling full and satisfied for hours. The abundance of vegetables adds essential vitamins and minerals, contributing to a balanced and healthy diet. And let’s not forget the antioxidants in those gorgeous spices – they’re not just tasty; they’re good for you too.
This recipe has become a staple in our household, a comforting and satisfying dish that never fails to impress. It’s a testament to the fact that healthy, delicious meals don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. So, next time you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner solution that's packed with flavor and nutrition, give this Chana Masala a try. You won't be disappointed!
Beyond the Plate: A Quick Note on Meal Prep and Family Life
As a working mom, I've learned the value of efficient meal planning and preparation. Batch cooking is my secret weapon. I set aside a couple of hours on the weekend to prepare meals for the week. This allows me to grab a quick, healthy meal whenever my crazy schedule allows. Having healthy, ready-to-eat meals reduces stress and minimizes those "What's for dinner?" dilemmas we all face. It's not only efficient; it's also a way to show love and care to my family. I know they are getting nutritious, delicious food, even amidst the everyday rush.
A Final Thought: Simple Pleasures and Everyday Cooking
This Chana Masala recipe is more than just a recipe; it’s a symbol of simplicity and resourcefulness in the kitchen. It’s a reminder that you don’t need fancy ingredients or hours of cooking time to create something truly special. Sometimes, the most satisfying dishes are the ones that come together effortlessly, using readily available ingredients and a bit of heart. So go ahead, give this recipe a try. Let it be a small victory in your busy day, a moment of joy and nourishment amidst the everyday hustle.
