Quick Chana Masala Chickpea Curry

Name: Quick Chana Masala Chickpea Curry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1-inch piece ginger, grated; 2 tomatoes, chopped; 1 tablespoon chana masala powder; 1 teaspoon cumin seeds; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; Salt to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: SpeedKitchen Ideas

Quick Chana Masala Chickpea Curry is a flavorful and nutritious dish that brings the taste of India to your kitchen in just a few minutes.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-26T00:22:29.010Z

This Quick Chana Masala Chickpea Curry is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With its rich spices and hearty chickpeas, it's a dish that will satisfy your hunger and delight your taste buds.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bursting with flavor from aromatic spices
Packed with protein and fiber for a filling meal
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners

      

A Taste of India in Your Kitchen

Chana Masala, a staple of Indian cuisine, is known for its rich and vibrant flavors. This Quick Chana Masala Chickpea Curry brings the essence of traditional Indian cooking right to your table without the hours of preparation. It's a comforting dish that showcases the harmonious blend of spices and ingredients, making it not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes.

The star ingredient, chickpeas, are not only versatile but also incredibly nutritious. They provide a hearty base for the curry, offering a great source of protein and fiber. This dish is perfect for those looking for a filling yet healthy meal option, whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this Quick Chana Masala Chickpea Curry is a perfect choice. It can be served on its own or paired with rice, naan, or even a fresh salad. The curry is easy to scale up for larger gatherings, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful dish.

Moreover, the simplicity of the recipe makes it ideal for meal prep. You can whip up a batch ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a busy week ahead. Just reheat and serve when you're ready, making it a convenient and satisfying option for lunch or dinner.

Customization and Variations

One of the great things about Chana Masala is its adaptability. Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Add in your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, for an extra boost of nutrients and flavor. You can also increase the spice level by adding green chilies or cayenne pepper for those who enjoy a little heat.

If you're looking to make it vegan or gluten-free, this recipe is already suited for both! The use of chickpeas and fresh ingredients ensures that it remains wholesome and satisfying without any animal products or gluten. This makes it a great option for anyone following a specific diet.

Ingredients

For the Curry

2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece ginger, grated
2 tomatoes, chopped
1 tablespoon chana masala powder
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking for a smooth preparation.

Instructions

Heat the Oil

In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds until fragrant.

Sauté Onions

Add the chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they are golden brown, about 5 minutes.

Add Garlic and Ginger

Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another 2 minutes until aromatic.

Incorporate Tomatoes and Spices

Add the chopped tomatoes and chana masala powder to the pan. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the tomatoes soften.

Add Chickpeas

Stir in the chickpeas and season with salt. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve hot with rice or naan.

Enjoy your Quick Chana Masala Chickpea Curry with your favorite sides!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Quick Chana Masala Chickpea Curry, the possibilities are endless. For a traditional experience, serve it alongside fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread. These accompaniments help soak up the flavorful sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with taste.

You can also pair the curry with a simple cucumber raita or a tangy salad to balance the spices. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider offering a side of pickles or papadums to add texture and an additional layer of flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers of this delightful curry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors often deepen and improve after a day or two, making it even more delicious when reheated. Just be sure to let it cool completely before sealing it in the container.

When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat the curry on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can add a splash of water or vegetable broth to loosen it up if it thickens too much during storage.

Nutritional Benefits

Chickpeas are a powerhouse of nutrition, providing significant amounts of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. This makes Quick Chana Masala not only a delicious meal but also a healthy one. The high fiber content aids digestion and helps maintain a feeling of fullness, which is perfect for those watching their weight.

Additionally, the spices used in this curry, such as cumin and ginger, offer their own health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and digestive support. Enjoying this dish regularly can contribute to overall health and well-being, making it a smart choice for nutritious home cooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, just soak and cook the dried chickpeas beforehand, then follow the same recipe.

→ Is this curry spicy?

The spice level can be adjusted by adding more or less chana masala powder.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this curry freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with Chana Masala?

It pairs well with rice, naan, or even a fresh salad.