Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Chickpea Masala?
It is a flavorful, aromatic Indian one-dish meal featuring hearty chickpeas, onions, garlic, and a traditional blend of spices.
Is Savory Chickpea Masala vegetarian?
Yes, this dish is classified as vegetarian and is made with plant-based ingredients.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 6 to 8 servings.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 250 calories.
What are the nutritional values for protein and fat?
Each serving provides 11.25 grams of protein and 7.5 grams of fat.
What are the total carbohydrates per serving?
There are 37.5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Can I use canned chickpeas for this recipe?
Yes, you can use 2 (15 ounce) cans of chickpeas, provided they are rinsed and drained.
What type of oil is recommended?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
How many onions do I need?
You will need 2 medium onions, peeled and minced.
How long should I sauté the onions and garlic?
Sauté them over medium heat until the onions turn golden brown, which takes about 3-5 minutes.
What spices are included in the initial sauté?
The initial spices added are ground coriander, cumin, cayenne pepper, and turmeric.
How much water is added to the masala?
One cup of water is added to the mixture along with the chickpeas.
What is amchoor powder and is it used here?
Amchoor is dried mango powder; 1 tablespoon is used in this recipe to add a tangy flavor.
When do I add the garam masala?
Garam masala is added before the 10-minute simmering period along with the other dry seasonings.
How much ginger is required?
The recipe requires 2 teaspoons of fresh grated ginger.
When is the fresh ginger added?
The ginger is added at the very end of the cooking process, after the 10-minute simmer.
Do I need to use fresh chilies?
Yes, the recipe calls for 1 fresh hot green chili pepper, minced.
What is the purpose of the lemon juice?
Juice from half a lemon is stirred in to provide a bright, acidic balance to the spices.
How long does the dish need to simmer?
The dish should be covered and allowed to simmer for 10 minutes.
What should I serve with Savory Chickpea Masala?
It is best served hot with warm naan bread or steamed rice.
How much garlic is in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1 clove of garlic, peeled and minced.
Does this recipe use fresh or canned tomatoes?
It uses 6 tablespoons of chopped tomatoes, which are cooked until they begin to caramelize.
Is this a spicy dish?
Yes, it contains cayenne pepper, fresh hot green chili, and various warm spices, making it a spicy meal.
What is the category of this recipe?
It is categorized as a One Dish Meal.
How much salt is added?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
Is paprika used in this masala?
Yes, 2 teaspoons of paprika are included in the seasoning mix.
What is the preparation for the fresh chili?
The fresh hot green chili pepper should be minced before being added.
How long is the final cooking step?
After adding the final aromatics, cook uncovered for just an additional 30 seconds.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick weeknight dinner?
Yes, it is described as an easy recipe perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
What makes this dish authentic?
The use of traditional Indian spices like amchoor, turmeric, and garam masala provides an authentic flavor profile.