Amritsari Chole Veg Recipes of India You Must Try

Amritsari Chole is a beloved North Indian dish that originates from the vibrant city of Amritsar, Punjab. This dish is an irresistible blend of spicy chickpeas cooked in a rich, tangy tomato-based gravy infused with a unique combination of aromatic spices.

Loved for its robust flavors and hearty texture, Amritsari Chole is a perfect vegetarian meal that satisfies both your taste buds and your hunger. Whether you’re new to Indian cuisine or a seasoned foodie, this recipe brings the authentic essence of Punjabi street food right to your kitchen.

In this recipe, we will walk you through the traditional method of preparing Amritsari Chole, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor. From soaking the chickpeas to tempering the spices, you’ll learn how to create this comforting and wholesome dish that pairs wonderfully with fluffy naan or steamed basmati rice.

Ready to explore the magic of Amritsari Chole? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Amritsari Chole stands out for its bold and complex flavors, layered with a perfect balance of heat, tanginess, and earthiness. It’s a fantastic source of plant-based protein thanks to the chickpeas, making it a nutritious and filling choice for vegetarians and vegans alike.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile and can be adjusted to suit your spice preferences. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means minimal cleanup but maximum flavor.

The slow-cooked chickpeas soak up the spices beautifully, resulting in a creamy and hearty gravy that is truly comforting.

If you love exploring authentic Indian recipes, you might also enjoy our Bok Choy Indian Recipe or our flavorful Black Cumin Recipes for an extra spice kick!

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried chickpeas (kabuli chana) or 2 cups canned chickpeas, drained
• 3 cups water (for soaking and cooking)
• 2 medium onions, finely chopped
• 3 medium tomatoes, pureed
• 2 green chilies, slit
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 2 tablespoons oil (mustard oil preferred for authenticity)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 2 teaspoons coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon amchur (dry mango powder)
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon chole masala (available at Indian grocery stores)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
• 1 teaspoon baking soda (optional, helps soften chickpeas)
• 1 teaspoon dried pomegranate seeds (anardana) (optional for tanginess)
• 1 inch cinnamon stick, 3 cloves, 2 green cardamom pods

Equipment

• Large bowl (for soaking chickpeas)
• Pressure cooker or large pot
• Deep frying pan or kadhai
• Blender or hand blender (for tomato puree)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and chopping board
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Serving bowl

Instructions

1. Soak the chickpeas: Rinse the dried chickpeas under running water until clear. Soak them in plenty of water overnight or for at least 8 hours. Add 1 teaspoon baking soda if desired to soften the chickpeas faster.
2. Cook the chickpeas: Drain the soaked chickpeas and rinse again. In a pressure cooker, add the chickpeas, 3 cups of water, cinnamon stick, cloves, and cardamom pods. Cook for about 20-25 minutes or until chickpeas are soft but not mushy. If using canned chickpeas, rinse well and skip this step.
3. Prepare the tomato puree: While chickpeas cook, blend the fresh tomatoes into a smooth puree. Set aside.
4. Sauté the base: Heat oil in a deep frying pan or kadhai on medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
5. Add ginger-garlic and spices: Mix in the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then add turmeric, coriander powder, red chili powder, and chole masala. Stir well and cook for another minute.
6. Add tomato puree: Pour in the tomato puree, stir well, and cook until the oil starts to separate from the masala (about 10-15 minutes on medium-low heat). This step is crucial for deep flavor.
7. Combine chickpeas and gravy: Add the cooked chickpeas along with the cooking water to the masala. Mix well and simmer for 15-20 minutes. Adjust consistency by adding water if necessary.
8. Final seasoning: Add amchur powder, garam masala, salt to taste, and dried pomegranate seeds if using. Stir and cook for another 5 minutes to blend all flavors.
9. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped coriander leaves on top. Serve hot with bhature, naan, or steamed rice.

Tips & Variations

For an authentic Amritsari flavor, use mustard oil for cooking. It adds a distinctive pungency that complements the spices perfectly.

If you prefer a smoky flavor, you can add a pinch of dry mango powder (amchur) and char some green chilies on an open flame to garnish.

Instead of dried chickpeas, canned chickpeas can be a great shortcut for busy days. Just reduce the cooking time accordingly.

For a creamier texture, mash a few chickpeas gently before adding them back to the gravy.

Try adding a dollop of butter or a splash of fresh cream for a richer, restaurant-style experience.

Nutrition Facts

*DV = Daily Value based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Serving Suggestions

Amritsari Chole pairs beautifully with deep-fried fluffy bhature, soft buttered naan, or simple steamed basmati rice. For a traditional Punjabi meal, serve with a side of sliced onions, lemon wedges, and fresh green chilies.

To balance the spices, a cooling side like cucumber raita or plain yogurt makes a perfect accompaniment. You can also add a side of pickled vegetables or a fresh salad to add some crunch and freshness.

For a complete meal, consider pairing it with Bread And Gravy Recipe or a refreshing drink like a mango lassi.

Conclusion

Amritsari Chole is a timeless classic that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of Punjab. Its deep flavors, hearty chickpeas, and aromatic spices make it a dish that comforts the soul and delights the palate.

Whether you’re cooking for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire.

With easy-to-follow steps and accessible ingredients, you can bring a taste of Amritsar to your home kitchen. Don’t forget to experiment with spice levels and garnishes to make the dish your own.

For more delicious and diverse recipes, explore our collection including the Breakfast Wellington Recipe or the savory Braised Pork Ribs With Radish Recipe. Happy cooking and enjoy every flavorful bite!

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