From the kitchen
Classic Vegetarian Chana Masala
A beloved Indian classic — chickpeas in a rich, aromatic tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 cans chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
- 2 onions (chopped)
- 3 tomatoes (chopped)
- 2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tbsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp garam masala
- 1/4 tsp green chili (optional, or as per taste)
- 1/4 tsp red chili powder (optional, or as per taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (optional, or as per taste)
- 2 tbsp oil
- Salt to taste
- Coriander leaves, for garnish
Method
- 1
Heat oil in a large pan and add cumin seeds.
- 2
Add onions and cook until golden brown.
- 3
Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1 minute.
- 4
Add tomatoes and cook until soft.
- 5
Add coriander powder and turmeric powder.
- 6
Add green chili (optional or as per taste) for heat.
- 7
Add red chili powder (optional or as per taste) for colour and spice.
- 8
Add black pepper (optional or as per taste) for additional flavour.
- 9
Add chickpeas and mix well.
- 10
Add garam masala and salt.
- 11
Simmer for 10–15 minutes until flavours blend.
- 12
Garnish with coriander leaves and serve hot with bhature or rice.
A beloved Indian classic — humble canned chickpeas simmered into a rich, aromatic tomato-based sauce. It comes together in one pan, leans entirely on pantry spices, and tastes even better the next day once the flavours have had time to settle.
Good to know
Storage & prep. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It freezes well for up to 3 months, and tastes even better the next day.
Substitutions. Use kidney beans instead of chickpeas. Substitute amchur with lemon juice.
Cultural context. Chana masala is believed to have originated in North India and is now enjoyed worldwide.
Frequently asked
Questions about this recipe
What is amchur?+
Amchur is dried green-mango powder, used to add a tart, citrusy note. If you don't have it, a squeeze of lemon juice works as a substitute.
Can I use fresh tomatoes?+
Yes. This recipe is built on fresh chopped tomatoes — simply cook them down until soft before adding the spices.
Is this dish vegan?+
Yes. Made with oil rather than ghee, chana masala is entirely plant-based and naturally gluten-free.