Best Chole Recipe with Chole Masala || Restaurant Style

About Chole Masala

Chole Recipe with Chole Masala: Chole, a popular dish from North India, is a tasty and hearty meal prepared with chickpeas and flavorful spices. This hearty dish is perfect for pairing with rice, roti, or bhature. Using chole masala, a spice mix crafted for this dish, elevates its flavors, making it an irresistible delight. In this guide, we share a comprehensive recipe for preparing authentic chole that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients for Chole Recipe

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups of dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)
• 4 medium-sized tomatoes (finely chopped)
• 2 medium-sized onions (finely chopped or pureed)
• 2 tablespoons of ginger-garlic paste
• 2 green chilies (slit lengthwise)
• 3 tablespoons of cooking oil or ghee

Spices and Seasoning

• 3 tablespoons of chole masala
• 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon of red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon of garam masala
• 1 teaspoon of dry mango powder (amchur)
• Salt to taste

For Garnish

• Fresh coriander leaves (chopped)
• Lemon wedges

Optional Additions

• 1 black tea bag (to add a deep, earthy flavor to the chickpeas)
• 1 tablespoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)

Step 1: Soaking and Cooking Chickpeas

1. Rinse the dried chickpeas thoroughly and soak them in water for overnight. Ensure the water level is at least 2 inches above the chickpeas.
2. Drain the water from chickpeas and transfer the chickpeas to a pressure cooker. Add 4 cups of fresh water, a pinch of salt, and the black tea bag (if using).
3. Cook for 6 to 8 whistles or until the chickpeas are tender. If you don’t have a pressure cooker, you can use an Instant Pot or boil them on the stovetop (though it will take longer).

Step 2: Preparing the Masala Base

1. Heat 3 tablespoons of oil or ghee in a deep pan.
2. Add cumin seeds and let them crackle.
3. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and sauté until the raw aroma disappears.
4. Add the finely small size chopped onions and cook until golden brown.
5. Mix in the chopped tomatoes and cook until the oil separates from the mixture. This process ensures a rich, flavorful base.
6. Sprinkle turmeric powder, red chili powder, and chole masala. Fri and care for 2–3 minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors.

Step 3: Combining Chickpeas with the Masala

1. Add the cooked chickpeas (along with the water they were boiled in) to the masala mixture.
2. Mix thoroughly and cook on low heat for 15 to 20 minutes, giving the flavors time to blend together nicely.
3. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed too.
4. Stir in the amchur powder and garam masala for a tangy, spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish the chole with freshly chopped coriander leaves and serve with a wedge of lemon.
• Pair it with hot bhature, naan, jeera rice, or steamed basmati rice for a complete meal.
• Serve alongside a side of freshly sliced onions and green chilies for an authentic dining experience.

Tips for Perfect Chole

1. Soaking is key: Soaking chickpeas overnight ensures they cook evenly and absorb the flavors better.
2. Chole masala matters: Use a high-quality, authentic chole masala for the best flavor. You can also make your own by dry roasting and grinding a mix of spices like coriander seeds, cumin, and dried red chilies.
3. Balancing flavors: Adjust the tanginess with lemon juice or amchur powder, depending on your taste preference.
4. For a richer texture: Mash a small portion of the cooked chickpeas and mix it into the curry.

By following these steps, you’ll create a chole dish that bursts with authentic flavors and warms the heart. Whether you’re preparing it for a festive gathering or a comforting family dinner, this recipe will always deliver

Frequently Asked Questions about Chole Recipe with Chole Masala

What is chole masala?

Chole masala is a spice blend specially made for chole (chickpea curry). It includes spices like coriander, cumin, dry mango powder, and other aromatic ingredients that give the dish its rich and authentic flavor.

What can I use instead of chole masala?

If you don’t have chole masala, you can use a mix of ground coriander, cumin, turmeric, red chili powder, garam masala, and amchur powder. However, for the best taste, chole masala is recommended.

Can I make chole without onions and garlic?

Yes, you can skip onions and garlic. Use more tomatoes and spices to maintain the flavor. Adding a pinch of asafoetida (hing) can also enhance the taste.

How can I make chole spicier?

To make chole spicier, add extra red chili powder or green chilies. Adjust according to your spice tolerance.

What makes chole tangy?

The tangy flavor in chole comes from dry mango powder (amchur) or lemon juice. You can also use tamarind pulp for an extra tangy twist.

How do I thicken the chole gravy?

Mash a small portion of the cooked chickpeas and mix it back into the gravy. This naturally thickens the curry without adding flour or starch.

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