Serves 5

Bring the Indian restaurant home, with this traditional Chana Masala. It’s filled with both flavour and nutrients. Chickpeas are a great source of protein, fibre and folate. It has soluble fibre which may help lower cholesterol, and insoluble fibre that helps to keep you regular. They’re also gluten free and can be part of a healthy vegetarian, vegan or non-vegetarian diet. Try it and let us know how you liked it!

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp canola oil
• ½ onion, diced
• 2 tsp ginger garlic paste
• 1 tsp mango (amchur) powder (optional)
• 1tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• ½ cup pureed tomatoes or 3 tbsp (45ml) of tomato paste
• 2 (19oz/540ml) cans (4 cups) of cooked chickpeas (drained & rinsed) or 2 cups dried chickpeas, boiled
• Cilantro to garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat canola oil on medium heat and sauté onions till soft. Then add ginger garlic paste and sauté for another 1-2 minutes.
2. Add spices, mix and add 1 tbsp water. Sauté for 5 minutes, while repeatedly adding 1 tbsp of water and mixing every minute (this creates a great flavour).
3. Add tomato puree/paste and sauté for a minute covered. Stir in chickpeas, and cover for another 2 minutes. Add ½ cup of water and cover for another 4 minutes.
4. With your spoon, mash some chickpeas to thicken the sauce to your liking. Garnish with cilantro and serve!

💡Tip* If using canned chickpeas, rinse with cold water- this makes them digest easily and can help lower gas produced.

💡Tip* If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and they’ll be ready within 30 minutes of boiling.

Nutritional information (per 3/4cup serving):
263 cal / 12.5g protein / 40.9g carbohydrate / 11g fibre / 6.6 g healthy fats

Photo credit: Food Heaven