Chana Masala (Chickpea Curry)

Chana Masala (Chickpea Curry)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried chickpeas (or 2 cups canned chickpeas)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1 green chili, chopped
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1/2 tsp red chili powder
• Salt to taste
• 2 tbsp oil
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare Chickpeas: If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and cook them in a pressure cooker or pot until tender. If using canned chickpeas, rinse and drain them.
2. Cook the Base: Heat oil in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add the chopped onions and cook until golden brown.
3. Add Aromatics: Add ginger-garlic paste and green chili, sauté for a minute.
4. Tomatoes and Spices: Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and red chili powder. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and the oil starts to separate.
5. Combine Chickpeas: Add the cooked chickpeas to the pan. Stir well to coat with the spice mixture.
6. Simmer: Add water as needed to reach your desired consistency. Simmer for 10-15 minutes. Add garam masala and salt to taste.
7. Garnish: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or bread.