Chana Chhole Chickpeas Masala

Who doesn't love Chhole Masala. This is a very popular dish in Indian cuisine. Chhole Masala is a big hit in my family and one of my favorite dish too. This goes well with Bhatura, Poori, Rice, Roti, Parantha etc. Chickpeas are very high in protein. Easy to prepare and good for any occasion. 

Ingredient:

1. 1 cup chana / chickpeas (soaked overnight)
2. 3 green chili  (finely chopped)
3. 2 medium onion (finely chopped)
4. 3 medium tomatoes  (finely chopped)
5. Cilantro leaves (to garnish - optional)
6. 2 tea spoon minced ginger & garlic 
7. 2-3 tea bags

Spices:

1. 2 spoon oil
2. Salt 
3. Red chili powder (depends on your spice level)
4. 1 bay leaf
5. 1/2" cinnamon stick
6. 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
7. Pinch of asafetida

Roasted Powdered Spices: (Can be substituted with any ready-made Chana Chhola Masala)

1. 1 1/2 teaspoon coriander seeds
2. 1 1/2 teaspoon pomegranate seeds
3. 1" cinnamon stick
4. 2 black cardamon
5. 3 cloves
6. 7 pepper corns
7. 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds

Method:

1. Wash & soak the chickpeas overnight in the water
2. Cook the chickpeas with enough water, salt, tea bags, cinnamon stick & black cardamon for 5-6 whistles until it becomes soft & tender
3. Heat oil in the pan, once it becomes hot add asafetida, cumin seeds, green chili, ginger garlic, bay leaf, cinnamon stick and stir it for few seconds
4. Now add onion and saute it until it turns golden brown. Then add red chili powder & salt
5. Add tomatoes and cook till it gets soft and mushy
6. Add the roasted spices mix and mix it well for few minutes
7. Add the boiled chickpeas and cook it on low heat for 15 minutes
8. Now mash little bit of chickpeas to get the thick desired consistency
9. Adjust the water and salt
10. Garnish it with cilantro & onion rings.
11. Chhole masala is ready to be served with Bhatura or Rice