chana punjabi

You already know that I love Chickpeas, so it should be no surprise that I love this recipe for Chana Punjabi. A friend sent me the recipe (as posted in the NY Times) months ago. Despite all appearances of deliciousness, it was the beginning of the summer and each week I was busy eating my CSA box and never seemed to find time to make this dish. The last several days have been rainy and winter-like and I decided this was the time (also I have a 3.5 lb. bag of dried chickpeas). I chopped, stirred, and simmered this yesterday and fell in love. Yum. Yum.

Chana Punjabi

1 T. safflower oil

1 onion, chopped

2 t. garlic, minced

1 t. ginger, minced

1 red chili, chopped (or other as desired)

1 can diced tomatoes (or 2 fresh large ones)

1 1/2 t. paprika

1 t. sea salt, or to taste

1 t. ground coriander

1/2 t. garam masala

1/4 t. turmeric

1 t. lemon juice

1 1/3 c. dried chickpeas, soaked overnight (or 2-15 oz. cans, rinsed)

2 T. cilantro, minced

cooked rice for serving

1. In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, heat oil and add onion. Saute until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic ginger and chili, and saute until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Add tomatoes and 1/4 c. water. Cover and cook for about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.

2. Puree mixture with hand blender in pot until smooth. Return to pan and place over medium heat. Add spices (paprika, salt, coriander, garam masala, turmeric) and lemon juice. Add pre-soaked and rinsed chickpeas and bring to boil. Reduce heat to low.

3. Start to prepare brown rice for serving.

4. Cover and simmer until sauce is thick and chickpeas are soft (45 min-1 hour). Stir pan periodically and add water (up to 1 1/2 c.) to prevent burning. When ready to serve remove lid and reduce sauce until it's thick (if not already). Stir in cilantro. Adjust salt. Serve with cooked rice

Serves: 2- 4