Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a delightful twist on a classic Indian dish! Sweet Chana Masala with Dates combines the earthy flavors of chickpeas with the rich sweetness of dates, creating a symphony of taste that will leave you craving more. This easy-to-follow recipe not only brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table but also offers a nutritious meal that can be prepared in just 40 minutes. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this dish promises to impress your family and friends. Dive into this culinary adventure and discover how to make this irresistible dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can chickpeas, drained
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup dates, chopped
- 2 tbsp chana masala spice blend
- 2 tbsp oil
- Salt to taste
- Cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they become soft and translucent, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add chopped tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to break down and release their juices.
- Sprinkle chana masala spice blend over the onion and tomato mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure the spices are evenly distributed and cook for another 1-2 minutes to release their aromatic flavors.
- Drain and rinse the canned chickpeas, then add them to the skillet. Stir gently to coat the chickpeas with the spice mixture.
- Add chopped dates to the pan, which will bring a natural sweetness to the dish. Mix well to integrate with the chickpeas and spices.
- Pour in a small amount of water (about 1/4 cup) to create a light sauce and help the flavors meld together. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Season with salt to taste, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Once the chickpeas are tender and the sauce has thickened, remove from heat.
- Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving hot with rice or naan bread.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh, high-quality spices and ripe dates to enhance the flavor of your dish. Fresh ingredients make a significant difference in taste!
- Customize the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding chopped green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the onion and tomato mixture.
- Let It Simmer: Allow the dish to simmer for the full 20 minutes to let the flavors meld together beautifully. The longer it simmers, the richer the taste!
- Serve with Accompaniments: Pair your Sweet Chana Masala with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan for a complete meal that balances the sweetness with savory goodness.
- Garnish for Presentation: Don’t skip the cilantro garnish! It adds a pop of color and freshness that elevates the dish’s presentation and flavor.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it perfect for meal prep. Just reheat before serving!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
