Chana Masala, also sometimes spelt as Channa Masala, is a classic from Punjabi cuisine and a popular dish across North Indian cuisine. As one of the well-known regional recipes, it features chickpeas cooked in a spiced onion and tomato base. The rich flavour comes from slowly cooking the masala until it deepens in colour. This recipe uses a simple ingredients list and can be paired with rice, roti, or bhature, making it a versatile choice for both everyday meals and special occasions.
Rinse the dried chickpeas and soak them in plenty of water overnight or for 8-10 hours. Drain, rinse again, and cook with fresh water in a pressure cooker for 3-4 whistles or until very tender. If cooking in a regular pot, it may take 45-60 minutes.
Description - Step 2
Sauté Whole Spices
Heat oil in a large kadai or pan. Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, cinnamon, cloves and cardamom. Sauté for a minute until they sizzle and turn fragrant.
Description - Step 3
Cook Onions And Chillies
Add finely chopped onions and slit green chillies. Sauté on medium heat until the onions turn golden brown and soft.
Description - Step 4
Add Ginger-Garlic Paste
Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1-2 minutes more until the raw smell disappears.
Description - Step 5
Cook Tomatoes
Add the finely chopped tomatoes. Cook on medium heat, stirring often, until the tomatoes break down into a thick pulp and the oil begins to separate from the masala. This step ensures the base is well-cooked and full of flavour.
Description - Step 6
Add Spice Powders
Reduce heat to low. Stir in the Kashmiri red chilli powder, coriander powder, garam masala, turmeric, and optional amchur and kasuri methi. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
Description - Step 7
Simmer Chickpeas In Masala
Add the cooked chickpeas to the masala along with salt and 1 cup of water. Mix well, cover and simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes. If the gravy is too thick, add a little more water.
Description - Step 8
Adjust Consistency
Check seasoning and add more salt if needed. Mash a few chickpeas with the back of a spoon to thicken the gravy to your desired consistency. Simmer uncovered for 2-3 minutes more.
Description - Step 9
Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat. Garnish with finely chopped coriander leaves. Serve Chana Masala hot with rice, roti, naan or puri.