HomeRECIPES Sukha Kala Chana Masala Recipe | Spiced Black Chickpea Dry
19 April, 2025

Sukha Kala Chana Masala Recipe | Spiced Black Chickpea Dry

Posted in : RECIPES on by : Garima Tags: ,

AUTHOR: G GARIMA

Sukha Kala Chana Masala Recipe | Spiced Black Chickpea Dry

Sukha Kala Chana Masala, or Spiced Black Chickpea Dry, is a hearty and flavorful dish made using Kala Chana (Black Chickpeas) cooked with aromatic Spices. This dish is known for its rustic texture, bold flavors, and high nutritional value.

Unlike gravied curries, this preparation is dry or semi-dry, making it perfect as a side dish or even a light snack.

This method involves adding the masala first and pressure cooking the chickpeas along with the spices, which enhances the depth of flavor as everything cooks together. It’s a great one-pot way to infuse every bite with spice and richness.

Course: Side Dish | Snack
Cuisine: Indian (North Indian Style)
Preparation Time: 8 hours soaking + 10 minutes prep
Cooking Time: 20 – 25 minutes
Total Time: Approx. 30 – 35 minutes (excluding soaking time)
Serves: 4 – 6

Ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

  • 300 Grams Kala Chana (Black Chickpeas)
  • 1 cup Water or as required – for pressure cooking
  • ¼ tsp Baking Soda

Spices and Seasoning:

  • 2 tsp Oil or Ghee
  • 1 tsp Cumin Seeds
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • ¼ tsp Black Salt
  • ¼ tsp Black Pepper Powder
  • 1 tsp Chana Masala
  • ½ tsp Turmeric Powder
  • ½ tsp Red Chili Powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp Garam Masala
  • ½ tsp Chaat Masala

Preparation Steps:

Step 1: Soak the Chickpeas

  1. Rinse kala chana in water. Discard the water.
  2. Soak them overnight or for at least 8 hours in plenty of water.
  3. Ratio of water should be at least double the volume of Black Chickpeas. Ensure the Black Chickpeas are completely submerged in water.
  4. If you are in a hurry, then soak the Black Chickpeas in hot water for about 4 to 5 hours. For this, heat water on high flame for 3 to 4 minutes and use it to soak Black Chickpeas.
  5. Drain and rinse the chickpeas once before cooking.

Step 2: Cook with Masala

  1. In a pressure cooker, heat oil or ghee.
  2. Add cumin seeds and let them crackle.
  3. Lower the flame and add all dry spices: salt, black salt, black pepper powder, garam masala, chana masala, turmeric powder, red chilli powder.
  4. Mix the spices quickly in the oil.
  5. Turn off the heat once to avoid burning the spices.
  6. Add the soaked and drained kala chana to the cooker and mix well so that the chana is well-coated with the spices.
  7. Pour in water and baking soda. Stir everything together.

Step 3: Pressure Cook

  1. Close the lid of the pressure cooker.
  2. Pressure cook on high heat for 5 to 6 whistles or until the chickpeas are tender but not mushy.
  3. Let the pressure release naturally.

Step 4: Dry Out Excess Moisture

  1. Open the lid and check if the chickpeas are soft and cooked through.
  2. If there’s too much water left, sauté on high flame until the water evaporates and the chana becomes semi-dry or dry, as per your preference.
  3. Sprinkle chaat masala and mix well.
  4. Cook for 1 – 2 more minutes.
  5. Taste and adjust salt or spice if needed.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

  • Turn off the heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
  • You can also squeeze a little lemon juice for extra brightness.
  • Serve hot or warm.

Pro Tips

  • Always soak chickpeas for at least 8 hours for faster cooking and better texture.
  • You can increase the spice levels or add a pinch of chaat masala for a tangy, street-food-style version.
  • If you prefer a softer bite, cook for an extra whistle or two.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with puri, halwa, chapati, paratha, rice or as a side dish.
  • Use as a filling for wraps or rolled in roti for a healthy snack.
  • Enjoy as a protein-packed snack on its own.

Health Benefits

  • Kala Chana (Black Chickpeas) are high in protein, fiber, and iron.
  • Keeps you full for longer and supports digestive health.
  • A great option for vegetarians and those following a clean, wholesome diet.

Sukha Kala Chana Masala is a simple yet satisfying dish that showcases the beauty of Indian spices and legumes.

Whether you’re cooking for a regular lunch or looking for a nutritious snack option, this dry black chickpea curry is sure to hit the spot with its bold flavors and hearty texture.