Description
Looking for a hearty, spice-kissed meal that’s easy to whip up on a busy weeknight? This Chana Masala is your go-to! It’s a richly seasoned chickpea curry that brings bold Indian flavors together in one pot. Whether you’re after quick dinner ideas, healthy vegetarian food, or filling protein-packed recipes, this dish checks every box. Great with rice, naan, or just on its own, it’s also vegan, gluten-free, and meal-prep friendly. A perfect fit for your list of dinner ideas, healthy snacks, or easy recipes for any day of the week!
Ingredients
1 tablespoon oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon coriander
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon garam masala
0.5 teaspoon chili powder
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
0.5 cup water or vegetable broth
0.75 teaspoon salt
0.25 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon lemon juice
0.25 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until golden brown.
2. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute.
3. Sprinkle in cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, and chili powder. Toast spices for 30 seconds.
4. Add diced tomatoes and cook for 8–10 minutes until the oil separates.
5. Stir in chickpeas and water or broth. Simmer for 15–20 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper. Finish with lemon juice and cilantro before serving.
Notes
Use fresh lemon juice at the end to brighten the flavor.
This dish tastes even better the next day—ideal for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 490mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: easy dinner, vegan recipes, chickpea curry, Indian food, quick meals