A hearty and satisfying gravy made with nutritious black channa.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried black chickpeas (black channa), soaked overnight or for at least 6 hours
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Drain the soaked black channa and rinse them under cold water. Set aside.
- Heat the cooking oil in a large pot or pressure cooker over medium heat.
- Add the cumin seeds to the hot oil and let them splutter for a few seconds.
- Add the finely chopped onions to the pot and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green chili (if using). Sauté for another minute until the raw smell disappears.
- Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot and cook until they turn soft and mushy.
- Once the tomatoes are cooked down, add the turmeric powder, coriander powder, garam masala, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well to combine all the spices with the onion-tomato mixture.
- Add the soaked black channa to the pot and stir to coat them evenly with the spice mixture.
- Pour in enough water to cover the black channa completely. If using a pressure cooker, close the lid and cook for about 15-20 minutes until the channa is soft and tender. If using a regular pot, cover and simmer for about 45-60 minutes until the channa is cooked through, stirring occasionally and adding more water if necessary.
- Once the black channa is cooked and the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency, remove from heat.
- Garnish the black channa gravy with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with rice, roti, or naan.
This simple black channa gravy is packed with flavor and protein, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal. Enjoy it with your favorite bread or rice for a hearty and delicious dish!