Chhole Masala

A Flavorful North Indian Classic

Main Ingredients

For Chhole (Chickpeas):

  • 1 cup Dried chickpeas (chole), soaked overnight
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 2-3 green cardamom pods
  • 2-3 cloves
  • 1 black tea bag (optional, for color)
  • Salt to taste

For Chilli Paneer Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons Oil
  • 1 large Onion (finely chopped)
  • 2 Tomatoes (pureed)
  • 1 tablespoon Ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 green chilies (slit)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon Red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon Coriander powder
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin powder
  • 1-2 teaspoons Garam masala powder
  • 1 tablespoon Dried pomegranate seeds (anardana powder) or 1 teaspoon Amchur (dry mango powder)
  • 1/4 teaspoon Hing (asafoetida)
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
  • Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Instruction

Step 1 - Prepare the Chickpeas

  • Soak the chickpeas: Soak dried chickpeas in plenty of water for at least 8 hours or overnight. This softens the chickpeas, making them cook faster.

  • Cook the chickpeas: Drain the soaked chickpeas and transfer them to a pressure cooker or large pot. Add enough water to cover the chickpeas, along with bay leaf, cinnamon stick, cardamom, cloves, and salt. Optionally, you can add a tea bag to the water for a darker color.

  • Set aside: Once cooked, set the chickpeas aside along with some of the cooking liquid for later use.

  • If using a pressure cooker, cook the chickpeas for 3-4 whistles or until soft.

  • If cooking in a pot, it will take about 1-1.5 hours, depending on the size of the chickpeas.

Step 2 - Prepare the Chhole Masala Gravy

  • Cook the onions: Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. This process should take around 8-10 minutes to develop a rich flavor.

  • Add ginger-garlic paste: Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.

  • Add tomatoes and spices: Add the pureed tomatoes to the pan along with turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and a pinch of salt. Cook the mixture until the oil separates from the masala (spice mix) and it turns a deep red.

  • Flavor boost: Add garam masala, pomegranate seeds (or amchur powder), and hing. Stir to combine.

  • Add chickpeas and cook: Add the cooked chickpeas along with some of the cooking liquid to the pan. Adjust the amount of liquid depending on the consistency you prefer. Stir everything together.

  • Simmer: Let the dish simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing the chickpeas to soak up the flavors of the gravy.

Step 3 - Final Touches

  • Kasuri methi:Kasuri methi: Crush the kasuri methi between your palms and sprinkle it into the gravy for an added depth of flavor.

  • Taste and adjust seasoning: Taste the gravy and adjust salt or spices as needed.

Step 4 - Garnish and Serve

  • Garnish: Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice (optional) for a tangy finish.

  • Serving Suggestions: Serve your delicious Chhole Masala with hot, fluffy bhature, puris, naan, or steamed rice. It's also great with a side of yogurt or raita.

Tips for the Perfect Chhole Masala

  • Chickpeas: If you're short on time, you can use canned chickpeas, but soaking and cooking them from scratch enhances the flavor.

  • Spices: Adjust the amount of chili powder and garam masala according to your preferred spice level. For extra heat, add more green chilies or chili powder.

  • Gravy consistency: For a thicker gravy, mash a few chickpeas while cooking, or blend a portion of the gravy to make it smoother.

Why You’ll Love Chhole Masala:

  • Hearty & Nutritious: Chickpeas are packed with protein and fiber, making this dish not only delicious but also filling and nutritious.

  • Flavorful: The combination of aromatic spices and herbs creates a rich, tangy, and spicy gravy that is perfect with any Indian bread or rice.

  • Versatile: Chhole Masala is incredibly versatile – you can adjust the flavors and consistency based on your preferences, making it a family-friendly dish.

Yield

6 Servings

Prep Time

25 minutes

Cook Time

20 minutes

Total Time

45 minutes