Curried Chickpeas, also known as Chana Masala, is another favorite side dish from our friend from India. They are loaded with Indian flavors. With rice it’s a very filling dish!
Curried Chickpeas
These Curried Chickpeas are so delicious as an Indian main dish or side dish. My sister-in-law Paige first made me these a year ago when we were at a family reunion. When she came to visit again last month I begged her to make them again so I could document the recipe. They are loaded with flavor and will fill you up along with a side of rice. I think I ate this for lunch every day until it was gone. Paige also made us Mickey’s Curried Cauliflower and Potatoes HERE, it was so good!! Curried chickpeas are also referred to as Chana Masala.
Curried Chickpeas vs. Chana Masala
If you go to an Indian restaurant, Chana Masala will be the name of curried chickpeas on the menu. According to Wikipedia, Chana Masala literally means “mix-spiced small-chickpeas.” It is chickpeas cooked in a tomato based sauce flavored with garlic, onion, and spices. Chana Masala is a delicious vegetarian option for those who love the spices of Indian food without the meat. We love it served over rice and with Naan bread.
What are Chickpeas?
Chickpeas are a legume that are high in protein. They are cream-colored and relatively round, and have the texture of a kidney bean. The flavor of a chickpea is nutty with a buttery texture. Similar to any kind of bean, they can be purchased either canned or dried. Chickpeas are heralded as being a food rich in vitamins and minerals. In addition, they are high in fiber as well as protein. Because of the high protein content and mild flavor, chickpeas are a great substitute for meat in recipes for vegetarian and vegan diets.
Is there a difference between Chickpeas and Garbanzo Beans?
Chickpeas and garbanzo beans are one and the same. The term people use to describe this legume varies from state to state. The name “chickpea” come from Latin origins and is generally the English name that is used. Garbanzo bean is the Spanish term for the legume. I was raised in the western part of the United States and have always called this legume a “garbanzo bean.” My good friends from the East coast refer to it as a “chickpea.” It is interesting to see how brands label it. When purchasing canned chickpeas, I usually see both names on the label.
Curried Chickpeas Recipe
This recipe originally comes from Paige’s friend Mickey who is from India. I asked Paige to tell me a little bit more about Mickey and this is what she sent me:
How To Make Curried Chickpeas
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the chickpeas overnight, then drain excess water.
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sauté the cumin seeds, onion, garlic, and jalapeño in the butter. Cook until onions are caramelized.
- Blend the 3 tomatoes in a blender. Add tomato purée to the onions and garlic sauté.
- Add chickpeas with 2 cups of water, salt, garam masala, and the tomato garlic sauce in a crock pot.
- Cook on low for about 8 hours. If the beans have not popped open and the sauce is not coming together you can move them to the stove top and cook them at a soft bubbly boil until the sauce comes together. If lacking in flavor, add more salt and Indian spice.
- Serve chickpeas over rice and/or with Naan bread.
Equipment
- Crockpot Slow Cooker
Izzy says
The savory taste of this curry and its nice broth goes very well with rice. Always a joy to make. Thank you for sharing!
Renee Goerger says
I’m always on the lookout for new recipes for chickpeas. This one hits the nail right on the head!!
Cindi says
I’m not sure what you mean by Indian spice. Sounds good even without it though.
Emily says
The kind my sister-in-law uses comes in a pink box. Ill try to find a picture.