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HOME » Vegetarian

Easy Chana Masala

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Are you craving a hearty and flavorful dish that captures the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine? Look no further than our Chana Masala recipe! This mouthwatering chickpea curry, also known as Chana Aloo Curry, is a popular vegetarian dish that combines a medley of aromatic spices with protein-rich chickpeas for a truly satisfying meal. There are many versions of this dish, and every house has its own take on it.

The Best Chana Masala
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  • How to Make Chana Masala
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Our Chana Masala recipe features a curry mixture boasting a harmonious blend of curry powder, garam masala, coriander, cumin, allspice, nutmeg, and more.

This spice combination infuses the dish with an irresistible aroma and layers of complex flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. To make this dish, you'll need ingredients like canned chickpeas, creamy coconut milk, diced potatoes, and tangy crushed tomatoes.

The flavors are further enhanced by adding garlic, ginger, onions, and a touch of heat with Indian Red Chilli Powder.

Whether you're a vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your repertoire, our Chana Masala is a versatile and wholesome option that will surely impress your family and friends.

It can be enjoyed with fluffy white rice, warm naan bread, or even as a filling for wraps or sandwiches. The possibilities are endless!

Easy Chana Masala
How to Make Chana Masala

Note: The full instructions are provided in the recipe card below.

In a small bowl, combine the chana masala blend; set aside. Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until they turn golden brown and caramelized, stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes.

Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant. Reduce the heat to low and add the chana masala blend. Stir well and toast the spices until fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes.

Add the drained and rinsed chickpeas and potatoes to the pan and mix well with the spice mixture. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, coconut milk, water, and bay leaves. Stir to combine all the ingredients-season with salt to taste.

Remember to start with a bit of salt and adjust as needed. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil.

Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium heat, cover the pan, and let it cook for about 30 to 45 minutes until the potatoes to become tender while the sauce thickens. After simmering, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve Chana Masala hot with steamed rice, naan bread, or your choice of bread.

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Recipe

Chana Masala

by Camila Benitez
Easy Chana Masala
Are you craving a hearty and flavorful dish that captures the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine? Look no further than our Chana Masala recipe! This mouthwatering chickpea curry, also known as Chole or Chana Marsala, is a popular vegetarian dish that combines a medley of aromatic spices with protein-rich chickpeas for a truly satisfying meal.
  • Español
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    Prep Time 15 minutes mins
    Cook Time 30 minutes mins
    Total Time 45 minutes mins
    Course Main Course
    Cuisine Indian
    Servings 12
    Calories 87 kcal

    Equipment

    • Large Pot
    • Wooden spoon or spatula
    • Cutting board
    • knife
    • Can Opener
    • Measuring spoons

    Ingredients
      

    For the Chana Masala Spice Blend:

    • 2 tablespoons curry powder
    • 1 tablespoon gram masala
    • 1 tablespoon coriander
    • 1 teaspoon cumin powder
    • 1 teaspoon All Spice powder
    • 1 teaspoon freshly grated or nutmeg powder
    • ¾ teaspoon Indian red chili powder or cayenne pepper
    • ¼ teaspoon ground black or white pepper
    • ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
    • 2 pieces dried bay leaves
    • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
    • 3 teaspoons granulated sugar

    For the Chana:

    • 4 tablespoons ghee or cooking oil (I used extra virgin olive oil)
    • 4 large garlic cloves , minced
    • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger , grated
    • 1 large or 2 medium yellow onions , finely diced
    • Six 15-ounce can chickpeas , rinsed well and drained
    • One 13.5-ounce can unsweetened canned coconut milk
    • 3 small potatoes , cut into ½" cubes ( this is optional)
    • (One) 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
    • 2 teaspoons kosher salt , adjust to taste
    • 3 cups water
    • ⅓ cup fresh cilantro or Italian parsley plus for serving , finely chopped

    Instructions
     

    • In a small bowl, combine the chana masala blend; set aside. Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until they turn golden brown and caramelized, stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant. Reduce the heat to low and add the chana masala blend. Stir well and toast the spices until fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes.
    • Add the drained and rinsed chickpeas and potatoes to the pan and mix well with the spice mixture. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, coconut milk, water, and bay leaves. Stir to combine all the ingredients-season with salt to taste. Remember to start with a bit of salt and adjust as needed. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil.
    • Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium heat, cover the pan, and let it cook for about 30 to 45 minutes until the potatoes to become tender while the sauce thickens. After simmering, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve Chana Masala hot with steamed rice, naan bread, or your choice of bread.

    Notes

    How to Store & Re-Heat
    To store Chana Masala, allow it to cool and transfer it to an airtight container or storage bag. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat Chana Masala, use the stovetop, microwave, or oven. Heat until thoroughly heated, stirring occasionally on the stovetop or in the microwave or covering with foil and heating in the oven. Serve the reheated Chana Masala with your choice of accompaniments, such as rice or bread. Garnish with fresh cilantro (coriander) and a squeeze of lime or lemon juice, if desired.
    How to Make-Ahead
    Chana Masala can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply follow the recipe instructions, allow it to cool, transfer it to an airtight container, and refrigerate. Reheat when ready to serve.
    How to Freeze
    To freeze Chana Masala, let it cool completely, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag, and freeze it for up to 2 months. To thaw, place in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat thoroughly on the stovetop or in the microwave. Serve!

    Nutrition

    Nutrition Facts
    Chana Masala
    Amount per Serving
    Calories
    87
    % Daily Value*
    Fat
     
    5
    g
    8
    %
    Saturated Fat
     
    0.4
    g
    3
    %
    Trans Fat
     
    0.02
    g
    Polyunsaturated Fat
     
    1
    g
    Monounsaturated Fat
     
    3
    g
    Sodium
     
    395
    mg
    17
    %
    Potassium
     
    212
    mg
    6
    %
    Carbohydrates
     
    10
    g
    3
    %
    Fiber
     
    2
    g
    8
    %
    Sugar
     
    1
    g
    1
    %
    Protein
     
    1
    g
    2
    %
    Vitamin A
     
    64
    IU
    1
    %
    Vitamin C
     
    9
    mg
    11
    %
    Calcium
     
    18
    mg
    2
    %
    Iron
     
    1
    mg
    6
    %
    * Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

    Nutrition Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is an estimate, calculated using standard data sources. Actual values may vary based on ingredient brands, preparation methods, and portion sizes. This information is for general reference only and should not be considered a substitute for professional dietary advice.

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    Published: Jul 4, 2023 · Last Updated: Jul 8, 2025 by Camila Benitez · This post may contain affiliate links

    About

    Welcome to Camila Made! My name is Camila Benitez. Here, I share our family's favorite recipes, all tried and loved, from holiday feasts and entertaining to everyday family meals and plenty of baked goods! 🍪😜

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