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Homemade Golden Chana Masala recipe photo

Golden Chana Masala

This Golden Chana Masala is bursting with flavor! A warm, nourishing dish featuring chickpeas and aromatic spices.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chana Masala:
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
  • 1 tablespoon refined/unscented coconut oil
  • 1 cooking onion fine dice
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon curry powder
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 inch piece of fresh ginger peeled and minced
  • 1 small fresh chili seeded and minced
  • 1 strip lemon peel white pith and all, minced
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1.5 cups diced fresh yellow tomatoes
  • 0.5 cup vegetable stock
  • 2 cups cooked chickpeas
  • Sea salt and ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • Chopped cilantro for serving
  • Warm brown rice or flatbread for serving

Equipment

  • Skillet or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Sharp Knife

Method
 

Instructions:
  1. Begin by toasting the cumin and coriander seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes, or until fragrant.
  2. In the same skillet, add the refined coconut oil and let it melt. Once hot, add the fine dice onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent.
  3. Stir in the ground turmeric, curry powder, minced garlic, ginger, and chili. Sauté for an additional 2 minutes.
  4. Add the minced lemon peel, tomato paste, and diced yellow tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes soften, then pour in the vegetable stock and bring to a simmer.
  5. Fold in the cooked chickpeas, simmer for about 10 minutes. Add more vegetable stock if the sauce is too thick.
  6. Taste and season with sea salt and ground black pepper as needed.
  7. Stir in the lemon juice just before serving, and garnish with chopped cilantro.

Notes

  • For a nutrient boost, add leafy greens like spinach or kale.
  • Swap brown rice for quinoa for a gluten-free option.
  • To lighten the dish, reduce the coconut oil or use vegetable broth.