19 South Indian Chana Masala Recipe They're Simply Irresistible!
Published on: Mar 28, 2024
South Indian chana masala is a flavorful and popular dish that can be found on many Indian restaurant menus. It is a vegetarian dish made with chickpeas and a blend of aromatic spices, giving it a unique and rich taste. While there are many variations of chana masala across India, the South Indian version stands out for its tangy and spicy flavors. In this article, we will take a closer look at the traditional South Indian chana masala recipe and how you can recreate it in your own kitchen.
Main Ingredients: Oil, Onion, Ginger Garlic Paste, Green Chilies, Medium
Chana Masala is a popular Indian dish that is loved for its rich and spicy flavors. This South Indian style variation of the dish is a favorite among many, and for good reason. Made with a blend of aromatic spices and chickpeas, this dish is a hearty and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with rice or naan bread. Here are 20 different variations of this delicious dish that you can try at home.
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South Indian Restaurant Style Chana Masala
Main Ingredients: Chickpeas, Cardamom, Cloves, Bayleaf, Star Anise
If you've ever had Chana Masala at a South Indian restaurant, you know that it has a distinct and irresistible flavor. This recipe aims to recreate that same taste at home. Made with a combination of spices and ingredients like mustard seeds, curry leaves, and coconut milk, this Chana Masala will transport you to the streets of South India with every bite.
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Chana Masala - Chickpeas Curry, How to make Chana...
Main Ingredients: Kabuli Chana, Baking Soda, Salt, Water, Olive Oil
This recipe takes a traditional approach to making Chana Masala, with a step-by-step guide on how to make the perfect curry. From soaking dried chickpeas to simmering them in a flavorful tomato-based gravy, this dish is sure to impress your taste buds and your guests. Serve it with some steamed rice or fluffy naan for a complete meal.
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Chana Masala
Main Ingredients: Sunflower Oil, Onions, Cumin, Salt, Garlic, Fresh
For a simple yet delicious Chana Masala recipe, look no further. This version of the dish uses a blend of whole and ground spices to create a flavorful and aromatic gravy. With the addition of fresh cilantro, this dish has a refreshing and vibrant taste that is sure to please.
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Easy Chana Masala
Main Ingredients: Grape Seed Oil, Yellow Onion, Ground Cumin, Sea Salt
If you're short on time but still want to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying Chana Masala, this recipe is for you. Made with canned chickpeas and a few key spices, this dish can be whipped up in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a last-minute dinner party, this easy Chana Masala will not disappoint.
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Chickpea Spinach Curry (Chana Palak Masala)
Main Ingredients: Canola Oil, Onion, Garlic, Ginger, Cilantro, Turmeric
Add some greens to your Chana Masala with this recipe that incorporates spinach into the dish. The spinach adds a nutritious and flavorful element to the dish, making it a healthy and delicious meal option. Plus, the vibrant green color of the curry gives it a beautiful presentation.
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Meat Masala (South Indian Garam Masala)
Main Ingredients: Green Cardamom Pods, Whole Cloves, Canela, Fennel
This recipe takes a different approach to Chana Masala by incorporating meat into the dish. Made with chicken or lamb, this meat masala is a flavorful and hearty variation of the traditional chickpea curry. The addition of garam masala adds a warm and spicy kick to the dish.
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Chana Masala (Indian Chickpeas)
Main Ingredients: Chickpeas, Chopped Tomatoes, Onion, Ginger Paste
This recipe stays true to the classic Chana Masala dish, with a few small tweaks to make it even more delicious. By toasting and grinding whole spices, this dish has a depth of flavor that is unmatched. Serve it with some warm and fluffy basmati rice for a satisfying meal.
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Poori Masala | South Indian Potato Masala
Main Ingredients: Oil, Mustard Seeds, Channa Dal, Onions, Green Chilies
In South India, Chana Masala is often served with a side dish called Poori Masala. This dish is made with potatoes and a blend of spices, making it the perfect accompaniment to the chickpea curry. Together, these two dishes make a complete and hearty meal.
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Homestyle Chana Masala | Indian Chickpeas
Main Ingredients: Chickpeas, Bay Leaves, Hot Water, Chick Peas, Water
This homestyle Chana Masala recipe is a great option for those looking for a more traditional and authentic taste. Made with a blend of whole and ground spices, this dish has a rich and robust flavor that is sure to satisfy. Serve it with some basmati rice and raita for a complete meal.
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Instant Pot Indian Chana Masala
Main Ingredients: Cooking Oil, Onion, Cloves, Canela, Bay Leaves, Ginger
If you have an Instant Pot, this recipe is a must-try. Using the pressure cooker feature, this Chana Masala can be made in a fraction of the time without sacrificing any of the flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you're craving a delicious Indian meal.
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Quick Chana Masala
Main Ingredients: Coconut Oil, Cumin Seeds, Yellow Onion, Minced Fresh
For a quick and easy Chana Masala recipe, give this one a try. Made with canned chickpeas and a blend of spices, this dish can be on the table in under 20 minutes. It's a great option for those who are short on time but still want to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Masala Dosa is a popular South Indian dish that is often served for breakfast or as a snack. This dish features a crispy and flavorful crepe filled with a spicy potato filling. For a twist on the traditional dish, try adding some Chana Masala to the potato filling for a delicious and unique flavor combination.
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Crispy South Indian Masala Dosa
Main Ingredients: Parboiled Rice, Seeds, Baking Soda, Salt, Oil
This variation of Masala Dosa features a crispy and flavorful dosa with a spicy Chana Masala filling. The combination of the two dishes creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Serve it with some coconut chutney and sambar for a complete South Indian meal.
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Sep 26 North Indian Chana Masala
Main Ingredients: Chickpeas, Small Yellow Onion, Carrots, Diced Tomatoes
This North Indian version of Chana Masala is a popular dish that is loved for its rich and hearty flavors. Made with a blend of whole and ground spices, this dish has a warm and inviting taste that is perfect for a cozy night in. Serve it with some garlic naan and a side of raita for a satisfying meal.
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Punjabi Chana Masala (Indian Chickpea Curry)
Main Ingredients: Chickpeas, Salt, Bay Leaf, Green Cardamoms, Cloves
Punjabi Chana Masala is a popular variation of the dish that is known for its bold and spicy flavors. Made with a blend of whole and ground spices, this dish has a depth of flavor that is hard to resist. It's the perfect dish to warm you up on a cold day.
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Indian-Spiced Chickpea Curry (Chana Masala)
Main Ingredients: Flavored Oil, Yellow Onions, Garlic, Ginger, Serrano
This Indian-Spiced Chickpea Curry is a vegetarian and vegan-friendly version of Chana Masala. Made with a blend of aromatic spices and creamy coconut milk, this dish is full of flavor and nutrition. It's a great option for those looking for a meatless meal that doesn't compromise on taste.
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Chana dal | Punjabi chana dal masala | chana dal fry
Main Ingredients: Chana Dal, Water, Turmeric Powder, Salt, Oil, Ginger
Chana dal is a type of lentil that is often used in Indian cooking. This Chana dal recipe is a delicious and nutritious dish that incorporates the lentils into a flavorful and spicy gravy. It's the perfect dish to enjoy with some steamed rice and a side of raita.
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South Indian Style Tomato Coriander Masala
Main Ingredients: Onion, Tomato, Turmeric Powder, Chilli Powder, Salt
This South Indian style tomato and coriander masala is a great variation of Chana Masala that is bursting with flavor. The addition of fresh coriander elevates the dish and adds a refreshing and vibrant taste. Serve it with some basmati rice and a sprinkle of fresh coriander for a delicious meal.
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South Indian Egg Masala (Muttai Thokku)
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Onion, Tomatoes, Garlic Paste, Green Chilies
This South Indian Egg Masala dish is a unique and tasty variation of Chana Masala. Made with hard-boiled eggs and a blend of spices, this dish has a rich and creamy gravy that is sure to please. Serve it with some warm naan or dosa for a satisfying meal.
The Key Ingredients
To make authentic South Indian chana masala, you will need a few key ingredients that are essential to achieving its signature flavor. These include chickpeas, tomatoes, onions, ginger, garlic, and a variety of spices such as coriander, cumin, turmeric, and garam masala. These spices not only add flavor but also provide numerous health benefits, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritious.
The Perfect Balance of Spices
One of the key elements of South Indian chana masala is the perfect balance of spices. This dish is known for its spicy and tangy taste, achieved by using a blend of spices. The garam masala is the star of the show, giving the dish its distinctive aroma and flavor. Other spices such as coriander and cumin add earthy and nutty notes, while turmeric provides a beautiful golden color to the dish. It is important to use fresh and good quality spices to get the best results.
The Tangy Twist
What sets South Indian chana masala apart from other versions is the tangy element. This is achieved by adding tamarind paste or amchur powder to the dish. These ingredients provide a tangy and slightly sour taste that balances out the spiciness. You can adjust the amount of tanginess according to your preference, but it is an essential component of the dish.
The Cooking Method
The secret to a delicious South Indian chana masala lies in the cooking method. Traditionally, the chickpeas are cooked in a pressure cooker until they are soft and tender. This results in a rich and creamy texture. The spices are then added and cooked until they are well combined and the flavors have infused into the dish. The final step is to add the tangy element and let the dish simmer for a few more minutes to enhance the flavors.
In conclusion, South Indian chana masala is a popular and delicious dish that is packed with flavor and nutrition. With the right ingredients and cooking method, you can easily recreate this dish at home and impress your family and friends. So why not give it a try and experience the rich and tangy flavors of South Indian cuisine.