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30 Minute Vegan Chana Masala

Name: 30 Minute Vegan Chana Masala
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 yellow onion, finely diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 TBSP ginger, minced; 1 jalapeno or chili pepper, finely diced (adjust for desired spice); 1 tsp cumin seed; 1 tsp mustard seed; 2 tsp coriander; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp turmeric; 1 TBSP garam masala; 2 15 oz cans chickpeas, drained; 28 oz can diced tomatoes; 1 TBSP tomato paste; 1/2 lemon, juiced; 1/2 bunch cilantro, chopped (plus more for garnish); basmati rice, cooked according to package; garlic naan, gluten free if desired

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This colder weather has me craving cozier dishes, and this Vegan Chana Masala TOTALLY hits the spot. Chana masala is a combination of chana (chickpeas), tomatoes, and masala (a blend of north Indian spices). These ingredients are cooked together with onion, garlic, and ginger for a flavorful tomatoey stew. I was inspired to make this dish after having an authentic version at a local Nepalese restaurant, and I'm so glad I did. My recipe is simple, fast, easy to make, and full of flavor, and delicious alongside basamati rice, veggies, or toasted naan.

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What is masala?

Masala is a very warm, fragrant and earthy blend of spices originating from northern India. This blend can be used in a variety of dishes including roasted veggies, tomato and cream based stews, stir frys, and more. The main components can vary but typically of masala seasoning is made with:

Cardamom
Cinnamon
Coridander
Cloves
Cinnamon

You can make a masala seasoning by combining these spices yourself, or use a chaat masala or garam masala blend.

I love this recipe because it is hearty and filling, full of plant protein, and high in fiber. It is absolutely delicious any time of day. I have even had the leftovers for breakfast with avocado and steamed spinach. Chana masala can also be served inside a wrap or you can add vegetable broth to enjoy as a soup.

What do I need to make Vegan Chana Masala?

Onion
Ginger
Garlic
Jalapeno or Chili Pepper
Cumin Seed
Mustard Seed
Ground Cumin
Turmeric
Coriander
Garam Masala
Canned Chickpeas
Canned Diced Tomatoes
Tomato Paste
Lemon Juice
Cilantro
Basmati Rice
Naan

Chana Masala can be served in a variety of ways. Traditionally, it is served with basmati rice and naan, but I also love it with massaged kale, fresh greens, or roasted veggies, like cauliflower!

Jackie Akerberg

Author of the Clean Vegan Cookbook, Food Blogger and Recipe Developer from Des Moines, Iowa.

Jackfruitful Kitchen has proudly been featured in Forks Over Knives, Vegan Bowls, Vegan Food and Living, and DSM Magazine.

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