Try This Mouthwatering Chana Tikka Masala Recipe Today

Chana Tikka Masala is a comforting and flavorful dish that makes a great addition to any meal. Its creamy, spiced sauce pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it a versatile choice for both everyday dining and special occasions.

Chana Tikka Masala is a flavorful and hearty Indian dish featuring chickpeas (chana) cooked in a spiced, creamy tomato-based gravy. It's a delightful variation of the classic chicken tikka masala, made vegetarian with the use of chickpeas. Here's a detailed recipe to help you make Chana Tikka Masala at home:

1. Ingredients

For the Chana Marinade:

- 1 can (400 grams) chickpeas (or 1.5 cups cooked chickpeas), drained and rinsed

- 1 tablespoon yogurt (use dairy or plant-based)

- 1 tablespoon lemon juice

- 1 tablespoon tikka masala spice mix (or garam masala)

- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder

- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander

- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or ghee

- Salt to taste

For the Masala Sauce:

- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee

- 1 large onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1-inch piece ginger, minced

- 2 large tomatoes, pureed (or 1 cup canned tomato puree)

- 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional, adjust to taste)

- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

- 1 teaspoon coriander powder

- 1 teaspoon garam masala

- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)

- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free version)

- 1/4 cup water (or more, as needed)

- Salt to taste

- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)

2. Instructions

Marinate the Chana:

Step 1- Mix Marinade:

In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, tikka masala, red chili powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, vegetable oil, and salt.

Step 2- Add Chickpeas:

Add the drained chickpeas to the marinade and mix well, ensuring all chickpeas are coated.

Step 3- Marinate:

Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for more flavor.

Prepare the Masala Sauce:

Step 1- Heat Oil:

Heat oil or ghee in a large pan over medium heat.

Step 2- Cook Aromatics:

Add the cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add the chopped onions and cook until golden brown.

Step 3- Add Garlic and Ginger:

Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4- Add Tomatoes:

Add the tomato puree and cook until the oil starts to separate from the mixture, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5- Spice It Up:

Stir in the coriander powder, garam masala, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well.

Step 6- Simmer:

Add the water to adjust the consistency of the sauce. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.

Cook the Chana:

Step 1- Cook Marinated Chana:

In a separate pan, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the marinated chickpeas and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are slightly crisped and heated through.