Explore 10 Delicious Ways to Cook with Chickpeas: Indian Style! From curries to snacks, uncover unique recipes!
Chickpeas, or chana as we lovingly call them, are a staple in Indian kitchens. These little
legumes are packed with protein, fiber, and a whole lot of flavor! From spicy curries to crispy snacks, chickpeas can be transformed into a variety of delicious dishes.
Often ignored, but they are a boon to those seeking affordable nutrition! Let's explore ten amazing ways to cook with chickpeas, giving you a taste of India in every bite. Be prepared to discover some exciting recipes you never knew existed!
Chana Masala: The Classic Curry
No Indian chickpea journey is complete without the iconic Chana Masala. This North Indian favorite features chickpeas simmered in a rich, tangy tomato-based gravy. The magic lies in the blend of spices – garam masala, cumin, coriander, and chili powder create a harmonious flavor profile.
Pair it with fluffy Bhatura, warm naan or steamed rice. For the best mouth feel, soak dried chickpeas overnight and pressure cook till very soft.
Chana masala is a complete experience, a symphony of taste and texture. You can temper it with ginger and green chillies.
Serve with chopped onions, coriander and lemon wedges for an added zing. Chana Masala is a versatile dish, suitable for a celebratory dinner or a quick weeknight fix. The beauty of this recipe is it allows for customization, adjusting the spice levels according to preference.
The dish’s history is very interesting. Believed to have originated in Punjab, it quickly spread across the country. Now it is accepted and loved by all. It is a quintessential part of any wedding or festive spread.
Chana Masala never fails to evoke a sense of comfort and nostalgia, reminding us of home-cooked meals. So, get ready to experience the magic of Chana Masala, a true Indian classic.
Chole Bhature: A Match Made in Heaven
Speaking of iconic pairings, Chole Bhature deserves a special mention. This Punjabi delight combines spicy chole (chickpea curry) with deep-fried bread called Bhature. Soft fluffy bhaturas and spicy chole make for the perfect combination. This dish is not for faint hearted as it is very rich.
Bhature made with maida (refined wheat flour) and yogurt give it that characteristic flavour. The chole is cooked with a blend of spices that include dried mango powder and pomegranate seeds. Bhature needs to be fermented with yeast for the perfect puff!
Eat piping hot as it gives the maximum indulgence. Chole Bhature is a popular street food that can be found on the streets of Delhi and Amritsar.
If you want to try something authentic, be sure to visit the old bazaar for the best taste. However, you can recreate this at home with some effort.
Chole Bhature is a festive affair, ideal for a weekend treat. The richness is nicely balanced with chopped onions and a dash of lime. It’s a burst of flavors that everyone loves.
Chickpea Salad: A Refreshing Twist
Escape the heat with a refreshing Chickpea Salad. This simple yet flavorful salad combines boiled chickpeas with chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and coriander. The dressing is a light vinaigrette made with lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Its light to eat, and perfect for a summer lunch!
You can get creative with your additions. Add roasted vegetables or crumbled feta cheese. Mint or parsley also adds another dimension to it. Black pepper and red pepper flakes will add heat to the chickpea salad.
Chickpea salad is very nutritional, and you can have it with crackers or bread.
If you are looking for a light and nutritious meal for your lunch then this is the best way to eat chickpeas. A vegetarian staple which is tasty, easy-to-make and great to eat!
Add sweetness by including sweetcorn or pomegranate seeds.
Chickpea and Spinach Curry: A Nutritional Powerhouse
Combine the goodness of chickpeas with the nutritional punch of spinach in this healthy and flavorful curry. Sauté spinach, diced onions and garlic in a pan with some oil. Add the spices like turmeric, garam masala and cumin powder and sauté until the spinach wilts down.
Spinach is packed with Iron, and a great source of Vitamins that are beneficial for the body. Add pre boiled chickpeas to the spinach and simmer till the chickpeas take on the flavors. Serve hot with rice or roti for a healthy and filling meal.
Customize the recipe by adding other vegetables like potatoes or cauliflower. You can add ginger paste and green chili paste or curry paste. A simple and delicious curry which is nutritious from the spinach and protein from chickpeas. This is an excellent go-to meal that is healthy and quick.
Chickpea Cutlets: A Crispy Snack
Craving a savory snack? Look no further than Chickpea Cutlets! These crispy patties are made by mashing boiled chickpeas with spices, breadcrumbs, and herbs. Shape them into cutlets and shallow fry until golden brown. These are a delightful treat that every kid and adult will enjoy!
Chickpea cutlets can also be baked for a healthier option. It does not use as oil as the shallow frying and is as good in taste.
You can add vegetables like grated carrots, beetroot or potatoes. Make it a fusion dish by adding some cheese in the cutlet mix.
Serve these cutlets with mint chutney or tomato ketchup. Chickpea cutlets are a perfect appetizer for parties or a satisfying snack for tea time.
Chickpea Soup: A Warm Embrace
On a chilly evening, nothing is as comforting as a warm bowl of Chickpea Soup. This hearty soup is made by simmering chickpeas in vegetable broth with onions, carrots, celery, and herbs. A dash of lemon juice adds brightness and balances the flavors.
It is a wholesome and nutritious meal that warms you from the inside out.
Add ginger and garlic paste when sautéing the onions and vegetables for add taste dimension. You can also add spices like cumin and coriander to give it a more Indian flavour.
Top with chopped coriander and a dollop of cream (optional) before serving.
You can give it a mediterranean touch by blending it and adding tahini and olive oil. Garnish the soup with croutons before serving, if there are any leftovers from your bread!
Chickpea Soup is a easy dish that is great for all the seasons.
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