- 2 cups chickpeas (chole), soaked overnight
- 2 tablespoons Naman Chole Masala
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 3 tomatoes, pureed
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 green chilies, slit
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 black cardamom pods
- 1-inch cinnamon stick
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 2 tablespoons oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
1. *Cook the Chickpeas:*
- Drain the soaked chickpeas and transfer them to a pressure cooker. Add enough water to cover the chickpeas and a little salt. Pressure cook for 6-7 whistles or until the chickpeas are soft and cooked through. Set aside.
2. *Prepare the Masala Base:*
- Heat oil in a large pan or kadai over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, black cardamom pods, and cinnamon stick. Sauté until the spices release their aroma.
- Add finely chopped onions and slit green chilies. Cook until the onions turn golden brown.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
3. *Cook the Tomatoes:*
- Add the pureed tomatoes to the pan. Cook until the oil starts to separate from the masala, stirring occasionally.
- Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and Naman Chole Masala. Mix well and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
4. *Combine Chickpeas and Masala:*
- Add the cooked chickpeas along with the cooking water to the pan. Mix well to combine the chickpeas with the masala.
- Let it simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, allowing the chickpeas to absorb the flavors. If the gravy is too thick, add a little water to achieve the desired consistency.
5. *Final Touch:*
- Add garam masala and salt to taste. Mix well and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
6. *Serve:*
- Serve the chole hot with rice, bhature, puri, or naan. Accompany with lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Enjoy your delicious and flavorful chole made with Naman Chole Masala, perfect for any meal!
