Amritsari Chole Masala

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Preeti Kalia (@hobbi_espassion)

A traditional Punjabi dish perfect for a Sunday brunch, featuring spiced chickpeas cooked with aromatic spices.

Amritsari Chole Masala recipe
Prep Time
8hr 0min
Cook Time
1hr 0min
Total Time
9hr

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = 1 bowl)

Main Ingredients

  • chickpeas, soaked and strained
    chickpeas, soaked and strained
    250g
  • chana dal, soaked
    chana dal, soaked
    1tbsp
  • cloves
    cloves
    6clove
  • black cardamom
    black cardamom
    2
  • salt
    salt
    1tbsp

For Tempering

  • desi ghee
    desi ghee
    2tbsp
  • cumin seeds
    cumin seeds
    1tbsp
  • green chilli
    green chilli
    5
  • garlic
    garlic
    8clove
  • onion, sliced
    onion, sliced
    4
  • tomato, pureed
    tomato, pureed
    5
  • ginger, crushed
    ginger, crushed
    1in

Spices

  • red chilli powder
    red chilli powder
    1tsp
  • degi mirch powder
    degi mirch powder
    1tsp
  • chana masala
    chana masala
    2tbsp
  • coriander powder
    coriander powder
    1tbsp

Secret Potion

  • carom seeds
    carom seeds
    2tsp
  • tea leaves
    tea leaves
    2tsp
  • cinnamon stick
    cinnamon stick
    1in
  • water
    water
    2cups

How to make Amritsari Chole Masala

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Soak the chickpeas overnight and strain them.

  2. Step 2

    Soak the chana dal.

Cooking

  1. Step 1

    Boil the secret potion ingredients together: carom seeds, tea leaves, cinnamon stick, and water.

  2. Step 2

    In a pan, heat desi ghee and add cumin seeds.

  3. Step 3

    Add green chillies, garlic cloves, and sliced onions. Sauté until onions are golden brown.

  4. Step 4

    Add tomato puree and crushed ginger. Cook until the mixture thickens.

  5. Step 5

    Add red chilli powder, degi mirch powder, chana masala, and coriander powder. Mix well.

  6. Step 6

    Add the boiled chickpeas and chana dal to the mixture.

  7. Step 7

    Pour in the secret potion and let it simmer until the chickpeas are cooked through.

  8. Step 8

    Mash some chickpeas to thicken the gravy.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

257.5kcal (12.88%)

Protein

13.5g (27%)

Carbs

33.5g (12.18%)

Sugars

2.5g (5%)

Healthy Fat

4.5g

Unhealthy Fat

6.8g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. Mash some chickpeas to thicken the gravy.

  2. Add tamarind water if you want it more tangy.

  3. Chana dal adds texture to the chole, so don't avoid it.

  4. Amla powder can be used in place of tea leaves.

FAQS

  1. How do I cook chickpeas for Amritsari Chole Masala?

    To cook chickpeas for Amritsari Chole Masala, soak 250 g of dried chickpeas overnight in water. The next day, strain them and boil them until tender. This process ensures that the chickpeas are soft and absorb the spices well during cooking.

  2. Can I make Amritsari Chole Masala vegan?

    Yes, you can easily make Amritsari Chole Masala vegan by substituting desi ghee with vegetable oil or coconut oil. This will maintain the flavor while keeping the dish plant-based and suitable for vegans.

  3. What can I use instead of chana dal in Amritsari Chole Masala?

    If you don't have chana dal, you can substitute it with split yellow peas or even red lentils. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, but these alternatives will still provide a delicious flavor to your dish.

  4. How should I store leftover Amritsari Chole Masala?

    To store leftover Amritsari Chole Masala, let it cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portions, which can last for up to 2 months.

  5. What dishes pair well with Amritsari Chole Masala?

    Amritsari Chole Masala pairs wonderfully with fluffy basmati rice, naan, or roti. You can also serve it with a side of cucumber salad or pickles to enhance the meal experience.

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