Chole Recipe Veg Recipes of India Made Easy and Delicious

Chole, also known as chana masala, is a beloved North Indian dish made from spiced chickpeas that perfectly balances tangy, spicy, and earthy flavors. This hearty, protein-packed curry is a staple in Indian households and street food stalls alike, offering a satisfying vegetarian option that is both filling and flavorful.

Whether you’re craving a comforting meal or looking to explore authentic Indian cuisine, this chole recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. The blend of aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala combined with the robust texture of chickpeas creates a dish that’s rich in taste and tradition.

Perfect for serving with fluffy basmati rice, soft puris, or warm naan, chole is versatile and easy to prepare. This recipe walks you through every step, from soaking the chickpeas to simmering them in a luscious tomato-onion gravy.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, you’ll find this recipe approachable and rewarding.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chole is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious and budget-friendly. Chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, making this dish a wholesome meal for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

The spices used in the recipe not only add depth of flavor but also have numerous health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties.

This recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to tweak the spice levels and ingredients based on your preferences. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead dish, perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

The rich aroma and vibrant colors of chole will make your kitchen smell like an authentic Indian restaurant, bringing warmth and comfort to your dining table.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried chickpeas (kabuli chana) or 2 cups canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 2 medium tomatoes, pureed or finely chopped
• 2 green chilies, slit (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 3 tablespoons oil (vegetable or mustard oil preferred)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon asafoetida (hing) (optional but recommended)
• 2 teaspoons coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon dry mango powder (amchur) or juice of half a lemon
• Salt to taste
• 3 cups water (or as needed)
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Equipment

• Pressure cooker or large pot for cooking chickpeas
• Heavy-bottomed pan or kadai for cooking the gravy
• Blender or food processor (optional, for tomato puree)
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Knife and chopping board
• Measuring spoons and cups

Instructions

1. Soak the chickpeas: Rinse the dried chickpeas thoroughly and soak them overnight or for at least 8 hours in plenty of water. This softens them and reduces cooking time.
2. Cook the chickpeas: Drain the soaked chickpeas and transfer them to a pressure cooker. Add about 3 cups of fresh water and a pinch of salt. Pressure cook for 20-25 minutes or until the chickpeas are soft but not mushy. If using canned chickpeas, skip this step and rinse the chickpeas.
3. Prepare the tomato puree: While the chickpeas cook, blend the tomatoes into a smooth puree or finely chop them if you prefer a chunkier texture.
4. Sauté the base: Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add asafoetida if using. Next, add the finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies: Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for 2-3 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
6. Cook the tomato puree: Add the tomato puree to the pan and cook until the oil starts to separate from the masala, about 10-12 minutes. This step is crucial for developing rich flavors.
7. Spice it up: Add coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well and cook the masala for 2-3 minutes to toast the spices.
8. Add the cooked chickpeas: Drain the chickpeas, reserving some cooking liquid. Add the chickpeas to the pan and stir gently to coat them with the masala.
9. Simmer the chole: Add about 1 to 1.5 cups of the reserved cooking liquid or water to the pan. Mix well, cover, and simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
10. Finish with garam masala and amchur: Stir in garam masala and dry mango powder or lemon juice. Adjust salt and spice levels to taste. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
11. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped coriander leaves on top and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

Pro tip: Adding a pinch of baking soda to the soaking water can help soften chickpeas faster, but be careful not to overdo it as it can alter the flavor.

For a richer version, you can add a tablespoon of butter or ghee towards the end of cooking. Some like to temper the chole with a tadka of garlic and dried red chilies in hot oil for extra flavor.

If you prefer a creamier texture, mash a few chickpeas in the curry before serving. For a tangier taste, you can add a bit of tamarind paste instead of dry mango powder.

Try experimenting with different spice blends like chole masala powder available in Indian stores for a quick shortcut.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Chole pairs beautifully with a variety of Indian breads like bhature, poori, or naan. For a lighter meal, serve it over steamed basmati rice or jeera rice (cumin rice).

Accompany your meal with a cooling side of yogurt or raita to balance the spices. Pickled onions or a fresh salad can add a crunchy contrast.

For a complete Indian feast, try serving chole alongside other delicious vegetarian dishes. You might enjoy Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for a fresh vegetable side or the tangy flavors of Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe.

Conclusion

Chole is a timeless Indian classic that brings warmth, nutrition, and comfort to your table. Its combination of tender chickpeas and robust spices is both satisfying and healthful, making it a perfect choice for vegetarians and anyone seeking a flavorful meal.

This recipe offers an authentic taste of India that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.

Whether you are making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, chole is a dish that everyone will love. Don’t forget to explore other recipes on our site like the hearty Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe or indulge your sweet tooth with our delightful Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe.

Dive into Indian flavors with this chole recipe and enjoy a taste journey right at home!

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