Description

Chana Palak Masala is a comforting and nutritious vegetarian curry made with chickpeas, spinach, and a fragrant blend of spices. This flavorful dish features a rich tomato gravy and a touch of coconut milk, offering a healthy and delicious alternative to takeout.

Ingredients

3 tablespoons sunflower or canola oil

1 large onion, finely chopped

4 cloves garlic, crushed

1 inch ginger, finely grated

1 tablespoon ground coriander

½ tablespoon ground turmeric

½ tablespoon ground cumin

¼ – ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or chili flakes

1.5 cups crushed tomatoes (400g)

2.5 cups cooked chickpeas (400g)

½ cup vegetable stock (120 ml)

1 cup frozen chopped spinach or 100g fresh/frozen chopped spinach

½ – 1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon sugar

1 teaspoon garam masala

1 tablespoon lemon juice

OPTIONAL: ¼ – ½ cup full-fat coconut milk (50-100 ml)

1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro leaves (coriander leaves)

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Instructions

Heat the oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.
Add the crushed garlic and grated ginger, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in the ground coriander, turmeric, cumin, and cayenne pepper or chili flakes. Toast the spices for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
Add the crushed tomatoes, chickpeas, and vegetable stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in the salt, sugar, and spinach. If using frozen spinach, increase the heat until it bubbles again. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
Add the garam masala, lemon juice, and coconut milk (if using). Stir well.
Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.

Notes

Add lentils: For extra protein, try adding a handful of red lentils along with the chickpeas. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
Spicy version: Increase the cayenne pepper or chili flakes, or add fresh green chilies for extra heat.
Vegetable options: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or cauliflower for more texture and flavor.
Vegan option: Use cashew cream instead of coconut milk or omit it for a dairy-free version.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 240
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 560mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 31g
Fiber: 9g
Protein: 9g
Cholesterol: 0mg