Find Vegetarian Recipes

Chhola (Chickpea Curry):Find Vegetarian Recipes

Description:

Chhola, also known as Chana Masala, is a flavorful and nutritious North Indian dish made with chickpeas cooked in a spicy tomato-based gravy. It’s a popular vegetarian dish enjoyed with rice or various types of Indian bread like roti or naan. This recipe yields 4 servings.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of dried chickpeas (or 4 cups of canned chickpeas)
• 2 medium-sized onions, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 2-3 green chilies, slit (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garam masala Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons cooking Oil
• Fresh coriander leaves for Garnish
• Water as Needed
• Lemon wedges for serving

Health Benefits:

• Chickpeas are rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them an excellent source of plant-based protein for vegetarians.
• They promote digestive health, regulate blood sugar levels, and support weight management.
• The spices in this dish, such as ginger, garlic, and turmeric, offer anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
• This dish is naturally gluten-free and can be suitable for various dietary preferences.

Nutritional Value (per serving):

• Calories: Approximately 300-350 Calories
• Protein: 12-15 Grams
• Fiber: 6-8 Grams
• Carbohydrates: 45-50 Grams
• Fat: 8-10 Gram
• Vitamins and minerals: Rich in iron, folate, and vitamins like B6 and C.

Cooking Time:

Cooking Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Preparation Time:

Preparation Time: 15-20 minutes (if using canned chickpeas) or 8-10 hours (if soaking dried chickpeas overnight)

Calorific Value:

Calorific value varies based on portion size and ingredients used but generally falls in the range mentioned above.

FAQs:

Q1: Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried ones?

A1: Yes, you can. If using canned chickpeas, rinse and drain them before adding them to the curry. Reduce the cooking time accordingly.

Q2: Is Chhola vegan-friendly?

A2: Yes, Chhola is typically vegan as long as you use oil for cooking and don’t add any dairy products.

Q3: Can I adjust the spice level?

A3: Absolutely! Adjust the amount of green chilies and red chili powder to suit your spice preference.

Q4: Can I make this dish in advance?

A4: Yes, Chhola tends to taste even better the next day. You can make it in advance and reheat before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Chhola with rice or your favorite bread for a hearty and nutritious meal!