Chhole, also known as Chickpea Curry, is a robust and spiced North Indian dish that features tender chickpeas simmered in a fragrant onion-tomato gravy. This easy chickpea curry is infused with warming spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala, making it a deeply flavorful and protein-rich meal.
Often enjoyed with bhatura or rice, Chhole can also be paired with flatbreads. This vegan chana masala recipe is adaptable and can be made using pantry staples, ensuring a delicious and nutritious meal for everyone.
Traditional Indian Chickpea Dish
Punjabi Chole, also known as Chhole or Chickpea Curry, is a staple in North Indian cuisine. This dish features tender chickpeas simmered in a rich onion-tomato gravy, infused with a blend of spices that create a delightful flavor profile.
The vibrant colors of the dish are captivating, with the deep red of the tomato gravy contrasting beautifully against the golden chickpeas. This easy chickpea curry is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome meal option for everyone.
Often enjoyed with bhatura or rice, Punjabi Chole can also be paired with naan for a satisfying meal. The versatility of this dish allows it to be adapted based on available ingredients, ensuring that it remains a favorite in many households.
Ingredients for a Flavorful Experience
The preparation of Punjabi Chole involves a variety of ingredients that contribute to its unique taste. Key components include dried chickpeas, which can also be substituted with canned varieties for convenience.
Other essential ingredients include onions, tomatoes, and a mix of spices such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala. The addition of ginger-garlic paste and green chilies enhances the flavor, while amchur or lemon juice adds a tangy twist.
For those looking to recreate this traditional Indian chickpea dish, having the right ingredients on hand is crucial. The combination of spices and fresh herbs, like coriander, elevates the dish to a new level of deliciousness.
Cooking Method: A Step-by-Step Guide
The process of making Punjabi Chole is straightforward, making it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels. Start by soaking dried chickpeas overnight, which helps to soften them for cooking.
Once the chickpeas are ready, they are boiled until tender. Meanwhile, a fragrant masala is prepared by sautéing onions and spices in oil or ghee. Adding pureed tomatoes and the remaining spices creates a rich base for the curry.
Finally, the cooked chickpeas are combined with the masala, allowing the flavors to meld together. A finishing touch of tadka—tempered spices in ghee—adds an aromatic layer to the dish before serving.
Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal
Punjabi Chole is best enjoyed hot, garnished with fresh coriander. It pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments, making it a versatile dish for any meal.
For a traditional experience, serve it with bhatura, a deep-fried bread that complements the curry perfectly. Alternatively, it can be paired with rice or naan, creating a satisfying combination that is sure to please.
A side of sliced onions and lemon adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the rich flavors of the curry. This combination not only enhances the meal but also creates an inviting atmosphere for a delightful dining experience.
Nutrition and Health Benefits
Punjabi Chole is not only delicious but also nutritious. Chickpeas are a great source of protein, making this dish a satisfying option for vegans and vegetarians alike.
With each serving, you can expect a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. The spices used in the dish also offer various health benefits, from aiding digestion to providing anti-inflammatory properties.
Overall, this easy chickpea curry is a wholesome addition to any meal plan, ensuring that you enjoy a flavorful dish without compromising on nutrition.
Variations and Adaptations
While the classic Punjabi Chole recipe is beloved, there are numerous variations to explore. For instance, Amritsari Chole incorporates a slightly different spice blend, offering a unique twist on the traditional recipe.
For those looking to experiment, consider adding vegetables or different legumes to the mix. This flexibility allows you to tailor the dish to your taste preferences while still enjoying the essence of this traditional Indian chickpea dish.
Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try out new variations, Punjabi Chole remains a comforting and satisfying meal option that brings warmth to any table.
Traditional Indian Chickpea Dish
This Punjabi Chole recipe features dried chickpeas cooked to perfection with a blend of spices, resulting in a mildly tangy and aromatic curry. The dish takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to prepare and serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried chickpeas (or 2 cups canned)
- 6 cups water (divided)
- ½ tsp salt (plus more to taste)
- 1 black tea bag (optional)
- 2 tbsp oil or ghee
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 black cardamom
- 1-inch cinnamon stick
- 2-3 cloves
- 1 tsp cumin seeds (plus ½ tsp for tadka)
- 1 large onion (finely chopped)
- 2 tomatoes (pureed)
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 green chili (slit, optional)
- ½ tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tbsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp amchur or ½ tsp lemon juice
- Fresh coriander (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp ghee (for tadka)
- ¼ tsp asafoetida (optional)
- 1 dried red chili (optional)
Instructions
- Soak the Chickpeas: If using dried chickpeas, soak them in water overnight. Drain and rinse before cooking.
- Cook the Chickpeas: In a pot, add soaked chickpeas, 6 cups of water, and the black tea bag (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until tender (about 1-1.5 hours). If using canned chickpeas, skip this step.
- Prepare the Masala: In a separate pan, heat oil or ghee over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, black cardamom, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
- Add Onions: Stir in the chopped onions and cook until golden brown. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chili (if using), and sauté for another minute.
- Incorporate Tomatoes and Spices: Add the pureed tomatoes, turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Cook until the oil separates from the masala.
- Combine Chickpeas: Add the cooked chickpeas (drained if using canned) to the masala. Stir in salt and garam masala. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, adjusting water for desired consistency.
- Finish with Amchur: Stir in amchur or lemon juice for tanginess. Cook for another 2 minutes.
- Prepare Tadka: In a small pan, heat ghee and add cumin seeds, asafoetida, and dried red chili. Pour this tadka over the curry before serving.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot with bhatura, rice, or naan.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4-6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 50g