Chana Masala Recipe (चना मसाला रेसिपी) | 5 Amazing Health Benefits
Chana masala is a popular Indian dish made with chickpeas (chana) and a variety of spices. The spices vary depending on the region and chef, but typically include ginger, garlic, onion, chili peppers, and garam masala. The dish is often served with rice or roti, and can be made with either dried or canned chickpeas.
Health Benefits of Chana Masala
- Rich in Fibre: Chana masala is a great source of dietary fibre. Fibre is essential for digestion and can help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes.
- High in Protein: Chana masala is a great source of plant-based protein and is especially beneficial for vegetarians and vegans looking to increase their daily protein intake.
- Low in Calories: Despite being high in protein and fibre, chana masala is low in calories making it a great option for those looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Chana masala is rich in antioxidants such as vitamin C and polyphenols which can help to protect against certain types of cancer, reduce inflammation and improve overall health.
- Rich in Nutrients: Chana masala is a great source of iron, magnesium, potassium, calcium, zinc and B vitamins, all of which are essential for optimal health.
Ingredients:
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 tsp. ground coriander 1 tsp. garam masala
- 3/4 tsp. ground cumin 1/2 tsp.
- ground turmeric 3/4 tsp.
- ground fresh chiles, or more 1 tsp.
- kosher salt 2 Tbsp.
- olive oil 1 Tbsp.
- tomato paste 1 10-ounce can of diced tomatoes with their juice 1 1/2 cups of water 1 (15-ounce) can of chickpeas, rinsed, drained 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Directions:
- In a small bowl, combine the onion, coriander, garam masala, cumin, turmeric, chiles and salt.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion mixture and cook while stirring until light brown, about 5 minutes.
- Add the tomato paste and cook while stirring until light brown, about 2 minutes.
- Add the diced tomatoes with their juice and water. Bring to a boil and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 30 minutes.
- Add the chickpeas and cook for 10 minutes. 6. Serve over cooked rice and garnish with cilantro.
Famous Spots on India For Chana Masala
- Rajasthan: The state of Rajasthan is famous for its cuisine which is rich in spices and full of flavour. One of the most popular dishes from Rajasthan is the chana masala, which is a stew made with chickpeas, tomatoes, and onions.
- Gujarat: The state of Gujarat is another great place to enjoy chana masala. This dish is usually made with black chickpeas, which are also known as kala chana.
- Maharashtra: The state of Maharashtra is also home to some delicious chana masala recipes. This dish is often made with green chickpeas, which are also known as safed chana.
- Tamil Nadu: The state of Tamil Nadu is another great place to enjoy this tasty dish. This region is famous for its spiciness, and the chana masala is no exception.
- Karnataka: The state of Karnataka is also a great place to enjoy chana masala. This dish is often made with red chickpeas, which are also known as desi chana.
Types Of Chana Masala :
There are many types of chana masala, each with its own unique flavor.
Some common varieties include:
- Amritsari chana masala: This variety is from the city of Amritsar in Punjab, India. It is made with black chickpeas, also known as kala chana, and is known for its smoky flavor. This variety is from the city of Amritsar in Punjab, India. It is made with black chickpeas, also known as kala chana, and is known for its smoky flavor.
- Mumbai chana masala: This variety is from the city of Mumbai, India. It is made with white chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, and is known for its spicy flavor. This variety is from the city of Mumbai, India. It is made with white chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, and is known for its spicy flavor.
- Hyderabadi chana masala: This variety is from the city of Hyderabad, India. It is made with black chickpeas and is known for its tangy flavor. This variety is from the city of Hyderabad, India. It is made with black chickpeas and is known for its tangy flavor.
- Rajasthani chana masala: This variety is from the state of Rajasthan, India. It is made with white chickpeas and is known for its sweet and sour flavor. This variety is from the state of Rajasthan, India. It is made with white chickpeas and is known for its sweet and sour flavor.
- Punjabi chana masala: This variety is from the state of Punjab, India. It is made with black chickpeas and is known for its rich, creamy flavor.