Description
If you’re searching for a bold, comforting, and wholesome meal, this Chana Masala recipe is your perfect match. Bursting with spices and simmered in a rich tomato base, this quick dinner idea brings warmth and nutrition to the table in under 40 minutes. Whether you’re exploring Indian cuisine, looking for healthy plant-based options, or just need easy food ideas for meal prep, Chana Masala delivers. It’s one of those easy recipes that doesn’t compromise on flavor—perfect for lunch or dinner, and ideal for both vegans and non-vegans alike.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or coconut)
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground coriander
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 1/2 teaspoons garam masala
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes or 2 large tomatoes, chopped
2 (15 oz) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/2 to 3/4 cup water
Salt to taste
Juice of half a lemon
Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Cooked basmati rice or naan, for serving
Instructions
1. Heat oil in a heavy skillet over medium heat. Add onions and sauté for 8–10 minutes until golden brown.
2. Add garlic and ginger, and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, cayenne (if using), garam masala, and cinnamon. Toast for 30–60 seconds.
4. Add tomatoes and cook for 6–8 minutes until they form a thick paste.
5. Mix in chickpeas and 1/2 to 3/4 cup water. Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes.
6. Add salt to taste and squeeze in lemon juice. Stir well.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with rice or naan.
8. Optional: Add a lemon wedge on the side for extra tang.
Notes
This dish improves with time; leftovers taste even better the next day.
For a richer texture, blend part of the sauce before adding the chickpeas.
Adjust spice levels to suit your preference, or skip cayenne for a mild version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Simmer
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: quick dinner, healthy recipe, vegan curry, easy recipe, Indian food ideas