Slow Cooker Chana Masala
Crave a flavorful and hearty Indian dish? Slow cooker chana masala is the perfect solution! With a few basic ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy a mouthwatering blend of chickpeas and aromatic spices.
Let your slow cooker do the work and get ready to savor a delicious and satisfying dish. Impress your taste buds with this easy slow cooker chana masala recipe.
Origins
Chana Masala is a popular dish from the Indian subcontinent, particularly Punjab and Gujarat. It’s characterized by its fragrant spices and the main ingredient, chickpeas. The chickpeas are cooked in a tomato-based sauce, infused with cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala.
It’s usually served with rice or flatbread and can be adjusted to accommodate different tastes by varying the level of spiciness. The delicious and versatile Chana Masala has gained global recognition.
Enjoy it in a local Indian restaurant or make it in the comfort of your home.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chana Masala
-2 tablespoons vegetable oil
-1 onion, diced
-3 cloves garlic, minced
-1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
-2 teaspoons garam masala
-1 teaspoon ground cumin
-1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
-1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
-1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
-1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes
-3 cups cooked chickpeas
-1/2 cup water
-1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
-1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
-Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Rinsing the chickpeas under cold water and removing any debris or impurities is essential for a clean and delicious base for your dish.
Place the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, ginger, and spices into the slow cooker and stir together to evenly distribute the flavors.
Set the slow cooker to low heat and let it cook for 6-8 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking process will allow the flavors to meld together and the chickpeas to become tender and flavorful.
Serve the chana masala over steamed rice or with warm naan bread.
To complete the dish, garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice for an added burst of freshness.
Enjoy the rich and aromatic flavors of your homemade Slow Cooker Chana Masala!
Tips for Cooking
For optimal results when cooking Slow Cooker Chana Masala, adhere to these helpful tips.
| Tips | Description |
|---|---|
| Soak the chickpeas | Overnight soaking of chickpeas in water with a pinch of baking soda helps them cook faster and become more tender. |
| Use fresh ingredients | Fresh spices and herbs will enhance the flavor of the dish. Avoid using stale or expired spices for the best results. |
| Adjust the spices | Taste the chana masala as it cooks and adjust the spices to your liking. Add more chili powder for heat or extra garam masala for a bolder flavor. |
| Garnish with cilantro | Adding a handful of freshly chopped cilantro on top of the chana masala before serving will add a burst of freshness to the dish. |
These tips will help you make a delicious and aromatic Slow Cooker Chana Masala that will wow your family and friends. Enjoy the rich flavors and the convenience of using a slow cooker to create this classic Indian dish.
Final Thoughts
As you wrap up the preparation of Slow Cooker Chana Masala, take a moment to appreciate the delightful flavors and the satisfaction of creating a homemade Indian dish.
The slow cooking process infuses the spices into the chickpeas, bringing out a rich and flavorful curry. The combination of cumin, coriander, and garam masala, plus the tanginess of tomatoes and the slight heat of green chilies, results in a truly mouthwatering dish.
The tender chickpeas absorb all the delicious flavors, making each bite a burst of taste and texture. Serve it with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread for a wholesome and comforting meal that will make you come back for more.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many Calories Are in a Serving of Slow Cooker Chana Masala?
A serving of slow cooker chana masala contains around 350-400 calories. This dish is a great source of protein and has a delightful flavor. Try it out for yourself and enjoy!
Can I Use Canned Chickpeas Instead of Dried Ones?
Yes, you can substitute canned chickpeas for the dried ones the Slow Cooker Chana Masala recipe calls for. This will save you time and effort, as the canned chickpeas are already cooked.
Can I Substitute the Spices in the Recipe With Pre-Made Chana Masala Spice Mix?
Yes, you can replace the spices listed in the recipe with a pre-made chana masala spice mix. This will save you time and still provide you with the traditional flavors you desire for your dish.
Is It Possible to Make This Recipe Vegan by Omitting the Yogurt Garnish?
Absolutely! You can make this recipe vegan by skipping the yogurt garnish. The dish will still be full of flavor without it. Enjoy your vegan chana masala!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers of Slow Cooker Chana Masala in the Refrigerator?
You can keep leftovers of slow cooker chana masala in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To ensure it stays fresh and flavorful, transfer it to a sealed container.
