Classic Punjabi Chole
Nothing beats the rich, flavorful taste of Punjabi Chole (Chickpea Curry). Made with perfectly boiled chickpeas simmered in a blend of aromatic spices, this dish is a true North Indian favorite. Paired with bhature, puri, or rice, it’s a hearty and wholesome meal loved by all.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups dried chickpeas
- 2 medium onions (finely chopped)
- 2 tomatoes (pureed)
- 2–3 green chilies (slit)
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 2–3 tbsp oil or ghee
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 black cardamom
- 2–3 cloves
- 1-inch cinnamon stick
- 1 tsp Himvarsha Cumin Seeds
- 1 tsp Himvarsha Turmeric Powder
- 1 tsp Himvarsha Red Chili Powder
- 1 tbsp Himvarsha Coriander Powder
- 1 tsp Himvarsha Cumin Powder
- 2 tsp Himvarsha Chole Masala
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Perfectly boiled chickpeas are slow-cooked with onions, tomatoes, and a medley of spices to create a thick, spicy, and tangy curry. Pair it with fluffy bhature, crisp puris, or steamed rice, and you’ve got a meal that’s not only filling but also truly soul-satisfying. Whether it’s a festive occasion, a family gathering, or just a weekend indulgence, Punjabi Chole made with Himvarsha – Just Natural! Masale is bound to win hearts.
Steps:
- Soak and cook the chickpeas – Soak chickpeas overnight in enough water. Drain and pressure cook them with salt until soft and tender.
- Make the base masala – Heat oil or ghee in a pan, add bay leaf, black cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and Himvarsha cumin seeds. Let them splutter to release their aroma.
- Add finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, cooking until the raw aroma disappears.
- Add tomato puree and cook until the masala thickens and the oil starts separating.
- Mix in Himvarsha turmeric, red chili, coriander, and cumin powder, stirring well to infuse the flavors.
- Add the boiled chickpeas along with some of their cooking water, stirring to combine.
- Sprinkle Himvarsha Chole Masala, mix thoroughly, and let the curry simmer on low heat for 15–20 minutes until it thickens and turns rich in flavor.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and a squeeze of lemon for that extra zest.