Chhole Masala
A Flavorful North Indian Classic
Main Ingredients
For Chhole (Chickpeas):
For Chilli Paneer Sauce:
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