Indian Cuisine Recipes

Delicious Kala Chana Masala Sabji Recipe | Black Chickpeas Curry

Delicious Kala Chana Masala Sabji Recipe | Black Chickpeas Curry
Quick answerKala chana masala (black chickpeas curry) is a spicy vegetarian curry. Black chickpeas soaked overnight are pressure-cooked for 5-6 whistles until completely soft, then added to a fried onion, ginger, garlic, green chilli and tomato masala with black masala, and cooked 5-10 minutes until the oil floats on top. Serve it with roti or rice.
SoakingOvernight
Pressure cook5-6 whistles
Serves10-11 people
DietVegan
Serve withRoti, rice, paratha or puri
Leftovers2-3 days in the fridge

Black Chickpeas Curry is a beloved dish in Indian households, known for its rich flavours and spicy, aromatic profile. This humble yet flavorful black chickpea curry (Kala Chana Masala) is a regular on festive and everyday menus across India. Follow this recipe to make flavorful & spicy Black Chickpeas Curry at home! 😋✨

🛒 Ingredients

  • 🧅 5 chopped onions
  • 🌰 2 bowls of black chickpeas / kala chana (soaked overnight)
  • 🌶️ 3-4 green chillies
  • 🍅 1 large chopped tomato
  • 🥄 5 teaspoons coriander powder
  • 🌶️ 1 teaspoon red chilli powder
  • 🥄 2 teaspoons chaat masala
  • 🧄 14-15 garlic cloves
  • 🫚 3-inch ginger piece
  • ⚫ 2 tablespoons black masala
  • 🔥 3 tablespoons garam masala
  • 🍛 3 tablespoons kitchen king masala
  • 🧂 2 teaspoons salt
  • 🍃 5 bay leaves
  • 🍬 3 small pieces of cinnamon
  • 🌿 Little stone flower (dagad phool)
  • 🟡 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 🛢️ Oil – as required

👨‍🍳 Cooking Method

  1. Boil the Black Chickpeas
    💦 Drain the soaked chana. In a pressure cooker, add fresh water, salt & black chickpeas, and cook for about 5-6 whistles until completely soft.
  2. Prepare the Masala Paste
    🧄 Grind onion, green chillies, garlic, ginger, and tomatoes together to make a fine paste.
  3. Cook the Spices
    🔥 Heat oil in a pan, add whole spices, then add the ground masala and all dry spices.
    🥄 Add 1/2 teaspoon turmeric, mix well, cover, and let it cook.
  4. Cook the Masala
    🧂 Add salt and let the masala cook well until aromatic.
  5. Combine Everything
    🥘 Add black masala, then pour in the boiled chana and some water.
  6. Final Cooking
    🔥 Mix well, cover with a lid, and cook for 5-10 minutes.
    ✨ As soon as oil floats on top, your Black Chickpeas Curry is ready to serve!

🎉 Enjoy this spicy & delicious dish with roti or rice! 🍛😋

Why Black Chickpeas Belong in Plant-Based Meals 🌱

Kala Chana (black chickpeas) is not just a tasty ingredient for your next curry or stew, it’s also a good source of plant-based protein. For those following vegan or vegetarian diets, pulses like this are an easy and delicious way to add protein to meals. Black chickpeas are also a good source of fiber and minerals, which makes this curry a filling addition to a balanced diet.

Perfect Pairing Options with Black Chickpeas Curry

For the perfect meal experience with Black Chickpeas Curry, pair it with plain roti or buttery paratha to soak up the rich, spicy gravy. Add a refreshing boondi raita on the side to cool down the heat and balance the flavors. To satisfy your sweet tooth, serve rasgulla or gulab jamun for a delightful finish. For a more aromatic touch, enjoy it with jeera rice or a kachumber salad for some crunch and freshness. Don’t forget a sweet lassi to wash it all down, creating a well-rounded, satisfying meal that combines spicy, creamy, and sweet elements.

Watch the Black Chickpeas Curry Recipe Video

More Dhaba-Style Recipes to Try

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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How to make Black Chickpeas soft while cooking? 🤔
Soak the chana overnight and pressure cook with a pinch of salt for 5-6 whistles.
Can I make Black Chickpeas Curry without soaking it? ⏳
Yes, but it will take much longer to cook. Soaking reduces cooking time and makes it softer.
What is the best oil for cooking this dish? 🛢️
Mustard oil or ghee gives an authentic taste, but any refined oil works too
Can I make this recipe without onion and garlic? 🧄
Yes! Use asafoetida (hing), tomatoes, and extra ginger for flavour.
How can I make it more spicy? 🔥
Add extra red chilli powder, green chillies, or a pinch of black pepper.
What can I serve with Black Chickpeas Curry? 🍽️
It goes well with roti, rice, paratha, puri, or naan!
Can I store this curry? ❄️
Yes, refrigerate for 2-3 days and reheat until steaming hot before serving.
What can I use instead of Kitchen King Masala? 🤷‍♂️
Use garam masala + cumin powder + coriander powder as a substitute.
How do I make a thicker gravy? 🍛
Mash a few boiled chana and cook longer for a thicker consistency.
Can I cook this in an Instant Pot? ⚡
Yes! Use pressure cook mode for 12-15 minutes after sautéing the masala.