How to Make Indian Chana Masala with Fresh Herbs
Chana Masala is a delicious, hearty dish that features chickpeas simmered in a spicy, tangy tomato-based sauce. It's not just a staple in Indian cuisine but also a favorite among food lovers worldwide. By incorporating fresh herbs, you can elevate this traditional dish, adding vibrant flavor and aroma. Here's how to make Indian Chana Masala with fresh herbs.
Ingredients
Before you begin cooking, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup dried chickpeas (or 2 cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed)
- 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or coconut)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 green chili, slit (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Fresh mint leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Juice of 1 lemon
Preparation Steps
Follow these steps to create a fragrant Chana Masala:
1. Prepare the Chickpeas
If you're using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight in plenty of water. Drain and rinse the chickpeas before boiling them until they are tender. This usually takes about 1-1.5 hours. If you’re using canned chickpeas, simply rinse and set aside.
2. Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the cumin seeds and let them sputter for a few seconds.
3. Sauté Onions
Add the finely chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they turn golden brown. This step is crucial as it builds the flavor base for your Chana Masala.
4. Add Ginger-Garlic Paste and Green Chili
Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and the slit green chili. Cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant and the raw smell disappears.
5. Incorporate Tomatoes and Spices
Add the chopped tomatoes, turmeric, coriander powder, cumin powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes break down and the oil starts to separate from the mixture, which takes about 5-7 minutes.
6. Mix in Chickpeas
Add the cooked chickpeas to the tomato mixture. Stir well to combine. If the mixture is too thick, feel free to add a little water to reach your desired consistency.
7. Simmer and Add Fresh Herbs
Cover the pan and let everything simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Just before serving, sprinkle in the garam masala, chopped cilantro, and chopped mint. The fresh herbs will add a burst of flavor and vibrant color to your dish.
8. Final Touch
Finish your Chana Masala with a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra layer of flavor. Adjust the salt if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Chana Masala hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs. It's perfect with steamed basmati rice, fluffy naan, or roti. For an added touch, offer some yogurt or raita on the side to balance the spices.
Conclusion
Making Indian Chana Masala with fresh herbs is a delightful way to enjoy a traditional dish. Not only is it rich in flavor and nutrition, but it also brings the fresh aroma of herbs to your table. Try this recipe and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills!