Go Back

Simple Chickpea Masala

This chickpea masala is a hearty and flavorful dish made by simmering canned chickpeas in a spiced tomato sauce. It's cooked using sautéing and simmering methods, resulting in a thick, aromatic stew with tender chickpeas and a rich, vibrant sauce. Perfect served over rice or with naan, its comforting texture and warm spices make it a pantry staple.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons oil vegetable or sunflower oil
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated ginger fresh
  • 1 teaspoon cumin toasted lightly
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 can 15 oz chickpeas drained and rinsed
  • 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes with juices
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 squeeze lemon freshly squeezed, optional
  • Fresh cilantro chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet or heavy-bottomed pan
  • Spoon
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Start by heating oil in your skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden and fragrant, about 8 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
  3. Stir in the cumin, turmeric, and garam masala. Toast the spices for about 30 seconds until they release a warm aroma, being careful not to burn them.
  4. Add the drained chickpeas and diced tomatoes with their juices. Mix everything well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  5. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld.
  6. Taste the sauce and adjust salt as needed. If desired, squeeze in a bit of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
  7. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped cilantro. Let it sit for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to deepen.
  8. Serve hot over steamed rice or with warm naan, and enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal.