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Bold Chana Masala

Bold Chana Masala

If you're craving real Indian flavor, this bold chana masala recipe delivers it without unnecessary fuss. Here's everything you need to make it right at home.

Chana Masala simmers chickpeas in a bold, tangy tomato-based curry seasoned with cumin, coriander, and garam masala. A hearty, satisfying vegan Indian dish.

Ready in about 35 minutes from start to finish, this beginner-friendly recipe makes 4 servings and comes together with 13 everyday ingredients. It's the kind of Indian dish worth putting into regular rotation.

Why this recipe works:

  • Mashing some of the chickpeas against the pot naturally thickens the sauce with no extra ingredients needed.
  • Cumin, coriander, and garam masala build a bold, tangy tomato base that carries the whole dish.
  • A one-pot simmer that's simple enough for a beginner, ready in about 35 minutes.
  • Makes 4 servings, a hearty vegan main that reheats beautifully.

✅ Quick Tip: Mashing a portion of the chickpeas against the side of the pot naturally thickens the sauce without needing any extra ingredients. Keep it at a gentle simmer, not a hard boil — too much heat breaks down delicate ingredients and can make sauces separate.

Serving Suggestions: Serve with basmati rice or warm naan for a satisfying vegan meal.

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 25 mins
Total Time 35 mins
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Beginner
Servings: 4
Estimated Cost: 6
Calories: 260
Best Season: Available
Dietary: Vegan, Vegetarian
Description
Chana Masala simmers chickpeas in a bold, tangy tomato-based curry seasoned with cumin, coriander, and garam masala. A hearty, satisfying vegan Indian dish. Ready in about 35 minutes from start to finish, this beginner-friendly recipe makes 4 servings and comes together with 13 everyday ingredients. It's the kind of Indian dish worth putting into regular rotation.
Ingredients:
  • 2 cans chickpeas drained and rinsed (15 oz each)
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp grated ginger
  • 2 tomatoes chopped
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp coriander
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1
    Before you start, gather and prep all 13 ingredients listed above - wash, chop, measure, and have everything within reach.
  2. 2
    Heat oil in a pot over medium heat.
  3. 3
    Cook the onion for 5 minutes until softened.
  4. 4
    Add garlic and ginger, cooking for 1 minute.
  5. 5
    Add tomatoes, cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, and chili powder.
  6. 6
    Cook for 6-8 minutes until the tomatoes break down.
  7. 7
    Add the chickpeas and about 1 cup of water.
  8. 8
    Simmer for 15-20 minutes, mashing a few chickpeas against the pot to thicken the sauce.
  9. 9
    Season with salt to taste.
  10. 10
    Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, acid, or spice as needed before serving.
  11. 11
    Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
  12. 12
    Garnish as desired and serve promptly for the best texture and flavor from your Bold Chana Masala.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 260kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 8g13%
Saturated Fat 1g5%
Sodium 420mg18%
Total Carbohydrate 38g13%
Dietary Fiber 9g36%
Sugars 6g
Protein 10g20%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note
Mashing a portion of the chickpeas against the side of the pot naturally thickens the sauce without needing any extra ingredients. Keep it at a gentle simmer, not a hard boil - too much heat breaks down delicate ingredients and can make sauces separate.
Keywords: chana masala recipe, chickpea curry, indian chickpea recipe, homemade chana masala
Read it online: https://nevabe.store/recipe/bold-chana-masala/