Chola Masala Recipe Tips

Chola Masala Recipe : A Flavorful Indian Dish

Chola masala, also known as chana masala, is a classic North Indian dish made with chickpeas cooked in a spicy, tangy and aromatic tomato based gravy. It's a popular recipe that pairs wonderfully with rice, naan or roti. Let's dive into the recipe!

Ingredients:

For the Main Dish,

. 1 cup dried chickpras or 2 cups canned chickpeas

. 2 tbsp oil or ghee

. 1 tbsp cumin seeds

. 2 medium onion, finely chopped

. 2 medium tomatos, pureed

. 1 tbsp ginger garlic paste

. 2 green chilis, slit

. 1 tbsp turmeric powder

. 1 tbsp red chili powder

. 2 tbsp coriander powder

. 1 tbsp cumin powder

. 1 tbsp garam masala

. 1 tbsp chana masala

. 1 tbsp amchur (dry mango powder or 1/2 tbsp lemon juice

. Salt to taste

For Garnish:

. Fresh coriander leaves, chopped

. Thin slices of ginger (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1 : Prepare the chickpeas

1. If using dried chickpeas:

. Rinse and soak the chickpeas overnight (6-8 hours)

. Drain and pressure cook the chickpeas with 3 cups of water and a pinch of salt for 6-7 whistle or until tender. Alternatively, boil them on the stovetop until soft

2. If using canned chickpeas:

. Drain and rinse thoroughly under running water

Step 2 : Cook the Masala

1. Heat oil or ghee in a heavy bottomed pan over medium heat

2. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter

3. Add chopped onions and saute until golden brown

4. Stir in the ginger garlic paste and green chilis, Cook for 1-2 minutes until aromatic

5. Add the pureed tomatos and cook until the oil separates from the masala

Step 3 : Spice It Up

1. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder and salt, Mix well

2. Let the masala cook for 2-3 minutes to allow the spices to blend

Step 4 : Chickpeas with Masala

1. Add the cooked chickpeas to the masala, Stir well to coat them with the spices

2. Add 1 to 1.5 cups of water, Bring it to a boil

3. Reduce the heat and simmer the flavors to meld

Step 5 : Final Touches

1. Add garam masala, chana masala and amchur or lemon juice, Stir well and simmer for another 2 minutes

Step 6 : Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and ginger slices

2. Serve hot with steamed rice, jeera rice, naan or roti

Pro Tips:

. For a richer flavor: Add a splash of cream or a tbsp of butter at the end

. Health tip: Avoid canned chickpeas with added presevatives or sodium

. Variations: You can add boiled potatos, spinach or paneer for a twist

Enjoy your homemade chola masala, packed with authentic Indian Flavors!