Chole Masala Veg Recipes That Are Easy and Delicious

Chole masala is a beloved North Indian dish that brings together the robust flavors of chickpeas simmered in a spicy, tangy tomato-based gravy. This dish is not only packed with protein and fiber but also bursts with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala, making it a staple comfort food for many.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner eager to explore Indian cuisine, chole masala offers a perfect balance of taste and nutrition that will satisfy your palate and warm your heart.

In this blog post, we’ll explore several delightful chole masala veg recipes that you can easily whip up in your kitchen. From the classic chole masala to unique twists like spinach chole and mixed vegetable chole, these recipes showcase the versatility of this dish.

Each recipe is detailed with step-by-step instructions, ingredient lists, and tips to help you achieve authentic flavors. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to dive into the rich world of chole masala!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chole masala is a dish that resonates with a wide range of taste buds due to its bold spices and hearty texture. You’ll love it because it’s:

• Nutritious: Chickpeas provide a great source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber, perfect for vegetarian and vegan diets.
• Flavor-packed: The blend of spices creates a complex and savory gravy that pairs well with rice, roti, or naan.
• Versatile: Easily customizable with different vegetables or spice levels to suit your preferences.
• Comforting: Perfect for cozy dinners, meal prepping, or even festive occasions.

Ingredients

• 2 cups chickpeas (kabuli chana) – soaked overnight and boiled
• 2 medium onions, finely chopped
• 3 medium tomatoes, pureed
• 2 green chilies, slit
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• 2 tbsp oil (vegetable or mustard oil)
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 1/2 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1/2 tsp amchur (dry mango powder)
• 1 tsp dried pomegranate seeds (anardana), optional
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
• Water as needed

Equipment

• Pressure cooker or large pot for boiling chickpeas
• Deep pan or kadai for cooking the gravy
• Blender or food processor (for tomato puree)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and chopping board
• Measuring spoons and cups

Instructions

1. Soak and boil chickpeas: Rinse 2 cups of chickpeas thoroughly and soak them overnight in enough water. Drain and pressure cook them with fresh water and a pinch of salt for about 20-25 minutes or until soft but not mushy. Set aside.
2. Prepare tomato puree: Chop tomatoes and blend them into a smooth puree. Keep aside.
3. Sauté onions and spices: Heat 2 tbsp oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Add 1 tsp cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Add ginger-garlic and green chilies: Stir in 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste and the slit green chilies. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
5. Cook tomato puree and spices: Pour in the tomato puree. Add 1 tsp turmeric, 1 1/2 tsp coriander powder, 1 tsp red chili powder, and salt to taste. Cook the mixture until the oil separates from the masala, about 10-12 minutes on medium heat.
6. Add boiled chickpeas: Add the cooked chickpeas along with 1 cup of the chickpea cooking water (or regular water). Mix well and simmer for 15-20 minutes so the chickpeas absorb the flavors.
7. Finish with garam masala and amchur: Sprinkle 1 tsp garam masala, 1/2 tsp amchur, and 1 tsp dried pomegranate seeds if using. Stir and cook for another 5 minutes.
8. Garnish and serve: Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve hot with steamed basmati rice, roti, or naan.

Tips & Variations

For an extra smoky flavor, try adding a pinch of chole masala or dry roasted black tea leaves while simmering the chickpeas.

• Spinach Chole: Add 2 cups of chopped fresh spinach towards the end of cooking to make a green, nutritious version.
• Mixed Vegetable Chole: Include diced carrots, peas, and potatoes for a hearty vegetable-packed variation.
• Use canned chickpeas: For a quick version, canned chickpeas can be substituted. Rinse well and adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Adjust spice levels: Modify the amount of red chili powder and green chilies to suit your heat preference.
• Make it creamy: A splash of coconut milk or cashew cream added at the end can lend a rich texture.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Chole masala is traditionally served with fluffy basmati rice or Indian breads such as roti, naan, or bhature. For a complete meal, pair it with a side of fresh cucumber raita or a tangy salad.

For a delightful twist, try serving it with Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe or alongside some crunchy Pecan Crackers.

If you’re looking for a refreshing condiment, check out the Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe that complements chole beautifully.

Chole Masala Veg Recipes Listicle

Classic Chole Masala

This is the quintessential recipe described above — a rich, spicy chickpea curry that’s perfect for everyday meals. The slow-cooked onions and tomato gravy combined with aromatic spices build the foundation of this dish.

Spinach Chole Masala

A nutritious variation where fresh spinach leaves are added to the classic chole gravy. The spinach adds a lovely earthiness and vibrant green color, enhancing both flavor and health benefits.

Mixed Vegetable Chole Masala

Add diced carrots, peas, potatoes, and bell peppers to the chickpeas for a colorful, vegetable-packed version. This recipe increases the fiber content and makes the dish more filling.

Chole Masala with Paneer

For a protein boost, toss in cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) at the end of cooking. The creamy paneer softens the spicy gravy and adds a delightful texture contrast.

Dry Chole Masala (Chole Tukka)

A drier, spicier preparation where the chickpeas are cooked with less gravy and roasted spices. This version goes well as a snack or side dish.

Chole Masala with Coconut Milk

Add coconut milk to the gravy for a creamy, mildly sweet version of chole. This fusion twist is popular in coastal Indian cuisines and pairs well with steamed rice.

Chole Masala with Quinoa

Replace chickpeas with cooked quinoa or mix both for a high-protein, gluten-free twist. This recipe is perfect for health-conscious eaters looking for a nutritious alternative.

Instant Pot Chole Masala

A pressure-cooker-friendly recipe that speeds up cooking time without compromising on flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal fast.

Chole Masala with Tamarind

Add tamarind paste to the gravy for a tangy, slightly sour flavor that complements the spices beautifully. This variation gives a unique twist to the traditional recipe.

Chole Masala Wraps

Use chole masala as a filling for wraps or stuffed parathas. Add some fresh veggies and yogurt for a portable, delicious meal.

Conclusion

Chole masala is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of bold spices, hearty legumes, and comforting home cooking. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore one of the many exciting variations, chole masala is sure to bring warmth and satisfaction to your dining table.

Its versatility makes it ideal for all occasions — from quick weekday dinners to festive gatherings. Plus, it’s packed with nutrition and flavor, making it a wholesome choice for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

Try incorporating some of the tips and variations shared above to personalize your chole masala experience.

For more flavorful and diverse recipes, don’t miss our other favorites like Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe, Pecan Crackers Recipe, and Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe.

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