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recipesvibrant

Channa Masala

5.0 · 101 reviewsRecipe card by Zeke KochEditorial by recipesvibrant · Updated October 14, 2026
Lunch/SnacksBeansVegetableAsianIndianVegan
Channa Masala

Total time

40 min

Servings

1

Calories

242

Category

One Dish Meal

Experience the authentic, bold flavors of India right in your own kitchen with this quick and easy Channa Masala. This protein-packed vegan recipe features tender chickpeas simmered in a fragrant, spiced tomato-onion gravy. Perfect for a healthy lunch or a hearty dinner, this one-dish meal is budget-friendly, dairy-free, and ready in under 40 minutes.

Ingredients

Makes 1 serving

  • 1 onions
  • 2 garlic
  • 1 ground coriander
  • 1 ground cumin
  • 2 ground cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 ground turmeric
  • 1 chopped tomatoes
  • 6 water
  • 1 chickpeas
  • 2 chickpeas
  • 2 amchoor powder
  • 1 paprika
  • 2 garam masala
  • 1 salt
  • 1/2 lemon
  • 1/2 green chili pepper
  • 1 fresh ginger

Method

  1. Heat oil in a large skillet.

  2. Add onions and garlic and sauté over a medium heat until browned (3-5 minutes).

  3. Turn heat to medium-low.

  4. Add the coriander, cumin (not the roasted cumin), cayenne and turmeric.

  5. Stir for a few seconds.

  6. Add the tomatoes.

  7. Cook the tomatoes until browned lightly.

  8. Add chickpeas and a cup of water and stir.

  9. Add the roasted cumin, amchoor, paprika, garam masala, salt and lemon juice.

  10. Cook covered for 10 minutes.

  11. Remove the cover add the minced chili and ginger.

  12. Stir and cook uncovered for 30 seconds.

Cook's notes

  • For a deeper flavor, let the spices toast in the oil for 30 seconds before adding the tomatoes.
  • Mash a small handful of chickpeas against the side of the pan to naturally thicken the gravy.
  • Adjust the heat level by adding more or less green chili depending on your preference.
  • Serve with warm basmati rice or freshly toasted vegan naan to soak up the delicious sauce.

Easy swaps

  • Use canned chickpeas for convenience, or soaked dry chickpeas for a firmer texture.
  • Substitute fresh tomatoes with high-quality canned crushed tomatoes if fresh ones aren't in season.
  • Add baby spinach or kale during the last two minutes of cooking for extra greens.
  • Use coconut milk instead of water for a creamier, richer sauce.

Frequently asked

Is this Channa Masala recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses whole food ingredients like chickpeas, tomatoes, and spices. Always ensure your individual spice blends are certified gluten-free if you have a severe allergy.

Can I make this recipe less spicy?

Absolutely. Simply omit the green chilies or reduce the amount of chili powder used. The spices provide flavor rather than just heat, so you can control the intensity to suit your taste.

What is the best way to reheat Channa Masala?

Reheat on the stove over medium-low heat with a splash of water to loosen the gravy, or microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated through.

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