This easy chana masala recipe is a comforting Indian chickpea curry made with onion, tomato and everyday spices. Canned chickpeas make it convenient for a busy weeknight, while simmering the curry helps the flavours come together.
Ingredients
- 2 cans chickpeas (about 400 g each), drained and rinsed
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped, or 200 g chopped canned tomatoes
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp turmeric
- ½–1 tsp chilli powder, to taste
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 300–400 ml water
- Salt to taste and lemon juice to finish
- Fresh coriander, optional
Method
1. Cook the onion base
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 6–8 minutes until soft and lightly golden. Stir in garlic and ginger for 30–60 seconds.
2. Add tomatoes and spices
Add tomatoes, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chilli powder and a little salt. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring often, until the tomatoes soften and the mixture thickens.
3. Simmer the chickpeas
Add the chickpeas and 300 ml water. Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Mash a few chickpeas against the side of the pan to thicken the sauce; add more water if needed.
4. Finish and serve
Stir in garam masala and a squeeze of lemon juice. Taste and adjust the salt and spice. Garnish with coriander if you like. Serve with rice, chapati or vegetable pulao.
Helpful Tips
- For deeper flavour, let the onion cook slowly until golden.
- For a thicker curry, mash more chickpeas or simmer a few minutes longer.
- Adjust chilli powder to suit your household.
- Refrigerate leftovers promptly and use within 3 days, reheating until piping hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried chickpeas?
Yes. Soak them overnight and cook until completely tender before adding them to the masala.
Is chana masala vegetarian?
Yes, this version is vegetarian and plant-based when prepared with oil and no dairy garnish.
How can I make it less spicy?
Use less chilli powder and serve with plain rice or yogurt on the side.
This affordable chickpea curry is easy to adapt with ingredients you already have in your kitchen.