5 Ways to Make Delicious Chola Masala at Home

Chola Masala, also known as Chana Masala or Chole, is a popular North Indian curry dish made from chickpeas, simmered in a rich blend of spices. This aromatic and flavorful meal is a staple in Indian cuisine and can be enjoyed with various breads like roti, naan, or even with bhatura. Here's how you can recreate this beloved dish in your own kitchen, using traditional methods and ingredients.

Essential Ingredients

Before you start, ensure you have these key ingredients:

• 2 cups of dried white chickpeas (kabuli chana), soaked overnight
• 1-2 tea bags
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 2-3 green chilies, slit
• Spices:
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • ¹⁄₂ tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp red chili powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • ¹⁄₂ tsp amchur (dry mango powder)
  • 1 tsp chaat masala (optional for tangy flavor)
• 2 tbsp oil or ghee
• Salt to taste
• Chopped coriander for garnish

Steps to Prepare Chola Masala

1. Preparing the Chickpeas

Soak chickpeas overnight to soften them for cooking:

• Rinse the chickpeas thoroughly.
• Soak in plenty of water for at least 8 hours.

⏰ Note: Forgot to soak? Use canned chickpeas, but adjust cooking time.

2. Cooking the Chickpeas

Boil the soaked chickpeas until tender:

• Add chickpeas to a pressure cooker with fresh water, salt, and tea bags for color.
• Pressure cook for about 25 minutes or 4-5 whistles on medium heat.
• Remove the tea bags and retain the water for the gravy.

3. Creating the Masala Base

Here’s how you make the masala base:

• In a pan, heat oil or ghee and add cumin seeds. Let them splutter.
• Add onions and sauté until they are golden brown.
• Mix in ginger-garlic paste, followed by the green chilies.
• Stir in tomato puree and cook until oil begins to separate.
• Add all the spices except for garam masala and chaat masala. Cook briefly.

4. Combining Chickpeas with Masala

Now combine the cooked chickpeas with the masala:

• Gently add chickpeas to the masala base.
• Add some of the retained chickpea water to achieve desired consistency.
• Simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Finishing Touches

Give your Chola Masala the final seasoning:

• Add garam masala and chaat masala if using.
• Check for salt and adjust accordingly.
• Turn off the heat, garnish with chopped coriander.

The aroma of your Chola Masala should now be filling your kitchen, promising a delicious meal. Serve hot with your choice of bread or rice.

🔍 Note: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a spoonful of ghee before serving.

To summarize, making Chola Masala at home involves soaking and cooking chickpeas, creating a flavorful masala base, combining the two, and adding final touches. This dish showcases the rich tapestry of Indian spices, turning simple chickpeas into a flavorful feast.

What makes Chola Masala different from other chickpea dishes?

+

Chola Masala is known for its specific spice blend, which includes chaat masala and amchur powder, giving it a unique tangy taste that sets it apart from other chickpea curries.

Can I use canned chickpeas for this recipe?

+

Yes, you can use canned chickpeas to save time. Just remember to adjust the cooking time, as they won’t need to be pressure cooked for as long.

How can I ensure the chickpeas are tender?

+

Soaking them overnight is key. If using a pressure cooker, make sure there’s enough water, and cook for the recommended time or until the chickpeas are soft to touch.