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Easy Chana Masala

Easy Chana Masala
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This is your go-to recipe for authentic, flavorful Chana Masala that’s ready in just 30 minutes. It’s a true one-pot wonder—a hug in a bowl that tastes like it simmered for hours!

Ingredients

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  • 3 Tbsp neutral oil (grapeseed or coconut)
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 1 Tbsp ground cumin
  • 3/4 tsp sea salt, divided
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 Tbsp fresh ginger, minced
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2–3 green chilies (e.g., serrano), sliced
  • 1 Tbsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1 (28-oz) can puréed or crushed tomatoes
  • 2 (15-oz) cans chickpeas, slightly drained
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 2–3 tsp coconut sugar
  • 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, cumin, and a pinch of salt (1/4 tsp). Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring until the onion is soft and translucent.
  2. Make the Paste: While onions cook, mash the garlic, ginger, cilantro, and green chilies into a paste using a mortar and pestle (or pulse in a small food processor).
  3. Bloom Spices: Add the paste to the pot and stir for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the coriander, chili powder, and turmeric, and cook for another 30 seconds.
  4. Simmer the Curry: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add the slightly drained chickpeas and the remaining salt (1/2 tsp). Stir well. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Let it gently bubble, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
  5. Finish & Serve: Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the garam masala, coconut sugar, and fresh lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Notes

  • Tips & Tricks: Don’t rush cooking the onions! Letting them soften properly builds a deep, sweet flavor base. The final squeeze of lemon juice is a must—it really brightens up all the flavors.
  • Serving Suggestions: This curry is perfect served with fluffy basmati rice, warm naan bread for scooping, or over roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
  • Storage & Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors get even better overnight! Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

Find it online: https://masaladiaries.com/easy-chana-masala/