Chana masala is a go-to comfort dish for me.
What Is Chana Masala?
Chana masala originated from the northern parts of India where its a staple dish.
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Chana masala can also be calledchole masala,referring to the kind of garam used in the dish.
This dish is typically prepared by cooking chickpeas in an Indian curry paste.
What Is Indian Curry Paste?
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Indian curry paste is made with two kinds of aromatic blends: wet and dry.
How To Make This Chana Masala
For this recipe, I have simplified the process a bit.
That will definitely make the process faster.
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On top of this basic recipe, feel free to go crazy and add your own twist to it.
Many people like to add coconut or almond milk for a creamier curry.
you’re free to reheat it in the microwave or on a stovetop over medium-high heat.
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Dont refreeze it once youve frozen and thawed it, or the curry just turns to mush.
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Soak them overnight or for 6 to 8 hours.
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The next day, add 3 cups water to the soaked chickpeas, andpressure cook themuntil tender.
Set aside for later.
If you prefer, skip this step and just use canned chickpeas.
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Strain and rinse the chickpeas, and move to the next step.
In a Dutch oven set over medium-high heat, add the oil.
Once the oil shimmers, add the cloves, cumin seeds, cinnamon stick, and green cardamom pods.
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Once the oil sputters, add the red onion.
Turn the heat to medium and cook onion for 5 to 8 minutes until it begins to turn golden.
Once the onions take on color, add the coriander, ginger-garlic paste, salt, and turmeric.
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Cook for another 15 to 20 seconds until the spices are fragrant.
Add the chopped tomato and stir well.
Cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomato cooks down and turns the masala into a loose paste.
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This should take about 5 to 8 minutes.
If you cooked your own chickpeas, add them along with the cooking liquid.
If youre using canned chickpeas, add them along with 1 1/2 cups of water.
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Add the garam masala and stir everything together.
Turn the heat off.
Uncover the pot and stir in the cilantro.
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Serve warm with a side of rice or bread.
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