Chana Bhaji

Chana Bhaji – A Hearty & Flavourful Chickpea Curry 🍛

Also known as Chana Masala or Chole, this is a classic Indian dish made with chickpeas simmered in a spiced tomato-based gravy. Perfect for breakfast with paratha, or as a satisfying main or side dish for lunch or dinner.

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⏱️ Prep & Cook Time

Using Dried Chickpeas:

• 🛁 Soaking Time: 6 hours or overnight
• 🔥 Boiling Time: 1 to 1.5 hours
• 🍳 Cooking Time: 40-55 minutes
• ⏳ Total Time: 2.5 to 3 hours

Using Canned Chickpeas:

• 🥫 No soaking/boiling required
• 🍳 Cooking Time: 40-55 minutes
• ⏳ Total Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour

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🧄 Ingredients

For Boiling Chickpeas (Skip if using canned):

• 1 cup dried chickpeas (or 2 cans cooked chickpeas)
• Water for soaking & boiling
• 1 tsp baking soda (for dried chickpeas)
• Salt to taste

For Chana Bhaji Gravy:

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1–2 green chillies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chilli powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp garam masala
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

🔹 Step 1: Soak & Boil Chickpeas (Skip if using canned)

1. Soak dried chickpeas overnight or for at least 6 hours.
2. Rinse and drain, then boil with salt and baking soda until tender (about 1 to 1.5 hours).

🔹 Step 2: Prepare the Gravy

1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
3. Add onions and sauté until golden brown.
4. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and green chillies; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add pureed tomatoes and cook until oil separates from the masala.

🔹 Step 3: Spice it Up

1. Add coriander powder, turmeric, red chilli powder, and salt.
2. Mix well and cook for 2–3 minutes.

🔹 Step 4: Add Chickpeas

1. Add boiled or canned chickpeas to the pan.
2. Stir to coat evenly in the spice masala.
3. Cook for 5–7 minutes, letting chickpeas absorb the flavours.

🔹 Step 5: Simmer & Finish

1. Add garam masala and simmer for 10–15 minutes on low heat.
2. Stir occasionally and adjust salt/spice if needed.

🔹 Step 6: Garnish & Serve

1. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
2. Serve hot with roti, naan, or rice.

👉 Tip: This dish pairs beautifully with aloo paratha for a hearty breakfast!

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✅ Tips & Variations

• 💧 Canned chickpeas save time and effort—just rinse before using.
• 🔥 Adjust spice based on your heat preference.
• 🍋 Add a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra zing before serving.
• 🧈 Add a spoon of butter or ghee at the end for a richer flavour.

Enjoy your homemade Chana Bhaji – a simple, nutritious, and comforting curry!

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