Fancy cooking a really flavourful, warming Indian curry at home? Chana Masala, a much-loved classic from the Punjab region, is an aromatic, hearty chickpea curry that has won hearts all over the world. The secret to a perfect Chana Masala is its complex, well-balanced spicing – an art that can take years to master. But don’t worry, we have a shortcut to the authentic taste!
With Shan Chana Masala spice mix you get a perfectly composed blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, chilli and ginger. It is made specifically to give you the deep, mellow and delicious flavour of a true Punjabi chickpea curry. Follow our simple recipe and treat family and friends to an unforgettable Indian meal straight from your own kitchen.
Ingredients (serves about 4)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or ghee
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, finely grated
- 1 tbsp garlic, finely grated
- 2 tins (400 g each) cooked chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 tin (400 g) chopped tomatoes
- 3 tbsp Shan Chana Masala spice mix
- 200 ml water or vegetable stock
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
- Fresh coriander, chopped, to garnish
- A squeeze of lemon juice
- Salt to taste
Method – step by step
- Step 1: Heat the oil or ghee in a large pan or casserole over a medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and fry until soft and golden, about 8–10 minutes.
- Step 2: Add the grated ginger and garlic. Fry for another minute until wonderfully fragrant.
- Step 3: Lower the heat and stir in 3 tablespoons of Shan Chana Masala spice mix. Toast the spices for about 30 seconds, stirring. This step is key to releasing all those fantastic aromas.
- Step 4: Add the chopped tomatoes and the teaspoon of sugar, if using. Simmer the sauce for about 5–7 minutes until it thickens and the oil starts to separate from the tomato.
- Step 5: Add the drained chickpeas and the water (or stock). Stir well so every chickpea is coated in the sauce.
- Step 6: Cover and simmer over a low heat for at least 15–20 minutes. This gives the flavours time to develop and meld. For a creamier texture, mash a few of the chickpeas against the side of the pan with a spoon.
- Step 7: Season with salt and squeeze over a little fresh lemon juice just before serving. Top generously with freshly chopped coriander.
Serving tips for a complete meal
Chana Masala is incredibly versatile. Serve it piping hot with fluffy basmati rice, freshly baked naan or warm rotis to mop up that glorious sauce. A dollop of cooling plain yoghurt or raita on the side is the perfect partner, balancing the spice.
Ready to make the perfect Chana Masala?
Cooking an authentic Indian meal has never been easier. Forget long lists of hard-to-find spices. Shan Chana Masala is your key to a delicious chickpea curry that tastes just as it does in Punjab. Its perfectly balanced blend of quality spices gives your curry a deep, complex and irresistible flavour that will impress everyone.
Treat yourself and your loved ones to a true taste experience. Click here to buy your Shan Chana Masala from etnomat.se and take the first step towards your best curry ever!
