Channa Masala (Chickpea Curry)

Ingredients and Weight:

• 2 cups dried chickpeas (garbanzo beans)
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
• 2 large tomatoes, chopped
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3-4 green chili peppers, sliced (or adjust based on preference for spice level)
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Preparation Time:

• Soaking time for chickpeas: 4-6 hours or overnight
• Preparation time: 30 minutes
• Cooking time: 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes

Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Soak the chickpeas in water for 4-6 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the chickpeas.
3. In a blender, puree the chopped tomatoes and onions.
4. In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil.
5. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a minute.
6. Add the tomato-onion puree and cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
7. Add the chickpeas, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and garam masala powder. Mix well.
8. Add enough water to cover the chickpeas and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer until the chickpeas are cooked through.
9. Add the green chili peppers and adjust the seasoning with salt.
10. Garnish with chopped cilaantro (if using) and serve hot with rice or naan.

Nutritional Information: (Per serving, assuming 4 cups of cooked Channa Masala) Calories: Approx. 350 calories (depending on the amount of oil used) Carbohydrates: Approx. 50g Protein: Approx. 18g Fat: Approx. 9g (including saturated fat) Fiber: Approx. 7g (based on ingredients listed)

Dish Characteristics:

• A rich and creamy curry with a mild to spicy kick, depending on the amount of green chili peppers used.
• A traditional Indian dish that pairs well with rice or naan bread.
• Full of protein and fiber, making it a great vegetarian option or a side dish for meat lovers.

User Comments:

• "This is an excellent dish for those who love Indian flavors! The curry is creamy and full of flavor."
• "I love how easy it is to make this dish with ingredients easily available at supermarkets in the US."
• "I added more green chili peppers for a spicier version and it was fantastic!"
• "Great as a vegetarian main dish or as a side with meat."
• "The chickpeas are so creamy and the flavors are well-balanced."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Soaking the chickpeas is crucial for them to cook evenly and become creamy.
• Adjust the amount of green chili peppers based on your preference for spice level.
• If you want a smoother curry, you can puree some of the cooked chickpeas in a blender before adding them back to the pot.