Home / Indian

Free for a limited time

Chana Masala: Filling Vegan Chickpea Curry

By the Healthy Plate team

Chana Masala

Chana masala is chickpea curry, one of India's most popular vegetarian dishes. Canned chickpeas make it quick, and the sauce is tomatoes and spices — no cream.

In-article ad space

Why it's good

  • Fibre and plant protein that keep you full
  • No meat, no cream
  • Keeps well and tastes better the next day

Chana Masala

5 minPrep
20 minCook
4Servings
290kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 cans chickpeas, drained
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves and a piece of ginger
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tbsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp cumin and turmeric
  • 1 tbsp oil
  • Coriander and lemon

Method

  1. Sauté the onion in oil for 5 minutes, then garlic and ginger for a minute.
  2. Add the spices for a minute, then the tomatoes for 5 minutes.
  3. Add chickpeas and half a cup of water; simmer 10 minutes until thick.
  4. Mash a few chickpeas to thicken, then finish with coriander and lemon.
Garam masala spiceAffiliate link — costs you nothing extra and supports the blog
Check price

Tip

Serve with brown rice or wholegrain bread instead of fried bhatura.

Canned or dried chickpeas?

Canned saves loads of time — just rinse well to cut the salt. With more time, soak dried chickpeas overnight and boil for an hour, or 20 minutes in a pressure cooker.

Frequently asked questions

How much protein is in it?

Roughly 12 g per serving from the chickpeas.

Can I add vegetables?

Sure — spinach, sweet potato or cauliflower all work.

How long does it keep?

4 days in the fridge, and it tastes better on day two.

⚠️ For general education only. If you have a health condition or allergy, consult your doctor.