Curried Chickpeas
These Curried Chickpeas ( also referred to as Chana Masala) are so delicious as an Indian main dish or side dish. My sister-in-law Paige first made me these a year ago when we were at a family reunion. When she came to visit again last month I begged her to make them again so I could document the recipe. Paige also made us Mickey’s Curried Cauliflower and Potatoes HERE, it was so good!!
Curried Chickpeas vs. Chana Masala
If you go to an Indian restaurant, Chana Masala will be the name of curried chickpeas on the menu. According to Wikipedia, Chana Masala literally means “mix-spiced small-chickpeas.” It is chickpeas cooked in a tomato based sauce flavored with garlic, onion, and spices. Chana Masala is a delicious vegetarian option for those who love the spices of Indian food without the meat. We love it served over rice and with Naan bread.
What are Chickpeas?
Chickpeas are a legume that are high in protein. They are cream-colored and relatively round, and have the texture of a kidney bean. The flavor of a chickpea is nutty with a buttery texture. Similar to any kind of bean, they can be purchased either canned or dried. Chickpeas are heralded as being a food rich in vitamins and minerals. In addition, they are high in fiber as well as protein. Because of the high protein content and mild flavor, chickpeas are a great substitute for meat in recipes for vegetarian and vegan diets.
Is there a difference between Chickpeas and Garbanzo Beans?
Chickpeas and garbanzo beans are one and the same. The term people use to describe this legume varies from state to state. The name “chickpea” comes from Latin origins and is generally the English name that is used. Garbanzo bean is the Spanish term for the legume. Being raised in the western part of the United States, I always called this legume a “garbanzo bean”. My good friends from the East coast refer to it as a “chickpea.” It is interesting to see how brands label it. When purchasing canned chickpeas, I usually see both names on the label.
How to Serve Curried Chickpeas
Serve these tasty little bites of protein over basmati rice, white rice or brown rice. Garnish with some sliced onion.Any leftovers? Keep them in the fridge and toss them onto a bowl of greens and stir together for a delicious chickpea salad. Dress the salad with some lime juice or lemon juice and a little olive oil. Fill a pita pocket with leftover chickpeas, your favorite veggies and a little cheese.Toss hot curried chickpeas with your favorite pasta.
Curried Chickpeas Recipe
This recipe originally comes from Paige’s friend Mickey who is from India. I asked Paige to tell me a little bit more about Mickey and this is what she sent me: Mickey was raised in India, and now lives in Bothell, Washington. She has irritable bowel syndrome and can only eat raw foods — no rice, no wheat. She does the most amazing things with vegetables and I can’t believe its just veggies. If I were to eat like she does I know I would feel so much better. She knows what spices work well with vegetables and she taught me that salt makes everything better. Mickey always showed me how to prepare this recipe with dried beans because she can’t have any of the preservatives in canned food, but you can use canned if you are short on time. Her dishes are a delicious vegetarian option. She is an amazing cook! Share It on Instagram!
