Taste the World

Chana Masala Recipe

Last updated: May 2026

Chana masala is a budget-friendly chickpea curry inspired by Indian markets, street food and everyday vegetarian cooking. It is filling, fast and ideal for pantry ingredients.

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Recipe Summary

Prep time
10 minutes
Cook time
25 minutes
Total time
35 minutes
Servings
4
Difficulty
Easy
Estimated cost
£4-£7
Cuisine
Indian
Inspired by
Indian markets and everyday vegetarian cooking

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 1 tbsp grated ginger
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 400g tinned tomatoes
  • 2 x 400g tins chickpeas, drained
  • Juice of 1 lemon or lime
  • Rice, yoghurt and coriander, to serve

Method

  1. 1

    Heat oil in a pan and cook onion until soft.

  2. 2

    Add garlic, ginger and spices, then cook for 1 minute.

  3. 3

    Add tinned tomatoes and simmer for 8-10 minutes until thickened.

  4. 4

    Stir in chickpeas and a splash of water.

  5. 5

    Simmer for 10-12 minutes, crushing a few chickpeas to thicken the sauce.

  6. 6

    Finish with lemon or lime juice and serve with rice.

Easy UK & European Ingredient Swaps

IngredientEasy swap
Dried chickpeasTinned chickpeas for speed
Amchur powderLemon or lime juice
Fresh corianderParsley or omit
Fresh curry leavesDried curry leaves or omit if unavailable

Budget Cooking Tips

  • Tinned chickpeas are fast and still low cost.
  • Use dried chickpeas if you batch cook and want the cheapest option.
  • Serve with rice to make four generous portions.
  • Freeze leftovers for a quick vegetarian lunch.

Plan the Holiday Behind This Dish

Chana masala is linked to Indian vegetarian cooking, market food and everyday meals that are built around pulses and spice. Until dedicated India guides are live, use the confirmed Asia planning links below.

Asia Browse Asia holiday guides Explore guide → Sri Lanka Sri Lanka budget travel guide Explore guide → Malaysia Malaysia budget travel guide Explore guide → Worldwide Cheapest holiday destinations from the UK Explore guide →
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FAQs

Is chana masala vegan?

The curry itself can be vegan if you use oil and skip yoghurt when serving.

Can I use dried chickpeas?

Yes. Soak and cook them first, then use them in the recipe like tinned chickpeas.

How can I make chana masala thicker?

Crush some chickpeas into the sauce and simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.