Instant Pot Chana Masala Recipe | Punjabi Chole Masala Recipe

Ready to bring the rich, comforting flavors of Chana Masala into your own kitchen? 

We’ve broken down the steps so you can easily create this satisfying dish at home, no fancy techniques required. 

From fragrant spices to perfectly tender chickpeas, here’s everything you need to know to make Chana Masala that’s as good as your favorite restaurant’s. 

Let’s jump in and get cooking!

Why is this Dish So Good?

There are a lot of things to love about this delicious, authentic curry. But a few things that stood out to us about this dish are as follows: 

• This dish can be cooked and ready to eat in less than fifty minutes. 

• You can make this dish much more easily, especially if you have precooked or canned chickpeas or chana. 

• This is a protein-packed, healthy, and wholesome curry that is super tasty.

• This is the ideal dish to make if you need a meal for a group of people. So, make this dish for parties or get-togethers to make a winning dish. 

• If you need a quick and easy dish you can make on a weekday, lunch, or dinner, this recipe will be just what the doctor ordered. 

• If you need a vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free dish, this recipe will be perfect for you. 

We certainly loved this rich, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish. So, you will, too! It is packed full of flavor while also being healthy. 

What Do You Need to Make this Indian Chana Masala Dish?

• Chickpeas: 1 cup dried (soaked overnight or for at least 4 hours if you’re short on time)
• Ginger & Garlic: 1 tablespoon each, freshly grated and minced
• Red Onion: 1, finely chopped
• Roma Tomatoes: 2 large, ripened (or substitute 1 cup canned puréed tomatoes)
• Spices:
  • Turmeric powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Red chili powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Coriander powder: 2 teaspoons
  • Chole Masala Powder: 1-2 teaspoons (optional, see note below)
  • Dried fenugreek leaves (Kasuri Methi): 1 tablespoon
• Lime or Lemon Juice: Juice of one
• Oil: 2 tablespoons
• Cumin Seeds & Bay Leaf: 2 tablespoons cumin seeds, 1 bay leaf
• Green Chili: 1, finely chopped
• Amchur Powder (Dry Mango): 1 teaspoon
• Fresh Cilantro: 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Water: 1 ½ cups
• Salt: To taste

Note: If you can’t find pre-made Chole Masala Powder at the store, you can easily make a version at home (recipe below). It adds depth to the dish but can be left out if needed.

Making Your Own Chole Masala Powder (Optional)

For authentic flavor, Chole Masala Powder is a helpful addition, but if you can’t find it, here’s a simple homemade mix. Just dry roast and blend the following:

• Dry Pomegranate Seeds (optional): 1 tablespoon
• Coriander Seeds: 3 tablespoons
• Cumin Seeds: 1 teaspoon
• Green Cardamom: 6 pods
• Black Pepper: 2 teaspoons
• Cloves: 10
• Cinnamon: 3-4 sticks
• Red Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon
• Black Salt: 1 teaspoon

This mix stores well in an airtight container and works wonderfully in Chana Masala.

How to Make Chana Masala

This dish can be prepared in two ways: in an Instant Pot or on the stovetop. Choose the method that works best for you.

Instant Pot Method

1. Soak Chickpeas: Soak for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain before cooking.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In the Instant Pot, select “sauté,” add oil, cumin seeds, and bay leaf. When they splutter, add ginger, garlic, green chili, and onions. Sauté until onions turn golden.
3. Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in tomato purée, red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and your chole masala powder. Cook until fragrant.
4. Add Chickpeas and Water: Combine the soaked chickpeas, salt, and water. Close the lid, seal the pressure valve, and cook on high pressure for 30 minutes.
5. Release & Garnish: Let the pressure release naturally. Stir in amchur powder and Kasuri Methi, garnish with fresh cilantro, and enjoy.

If the curry is too thin, use the sauté setting to cook it down until you reach your preferred consistency.

Stovetop Method

1. Prepare Chickpeas: Soak overnight and drain. In a large pot or stovetop pressure cooker, cook chickpeas in salted water until soft. Set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat oil in a large pot. Add cumin seeds and bay leaf until fragrant. Add onions, ginger, garlic, and green chili, cooking until the onions are golden.
3. Add Tomatoes and Spices: Add tomato purée and spices, cooking until the mixture thickens and oil begins to separate.
4. Add Chickpeas and Simmer: Stir in the chickpeas, salt, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Adjust Consistency & Garnish: Mash a few chickpeas for a creamier texture. Stir in amchur powder and Kasuri Methi, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve.

What to Serve with Chana Masala

Chana Masala is delicious on its own, but pairing it with sides makes the meal even better. Here are a few traditional accompaniments:

• Indian Breads: Serve with Bathura, Amritsari Kulcha, naan, roti, parathas, or poori.
• Rice Options: Basmati rice, jeera rice, or quinoa are great choices.
• Salads and Pickles: Try it with Indian cucumber salad, boondi raita, or pickles for added flavor.

Storing Leftover Chana Masala

If you have leftovers, here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freeze: Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers, and it will keep for up to 2 months.

When reheating, let frozen portions thaw before warming them on the stovetop or microwave. Add fresh cilantro for garnish.

Tips and Variations On This Dish

For an easier cooking experience, try these tips:

• Chickpeas: Canned chickpeas save time. Just reduce the water and pressure-cook for 5 minutes.
• Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes work well if fresh aren’t available. Use about 1 cup.
• Consistency: For a thicker curry, mash a few chickpeas after cooking.
• Tangy Flavor: If you don’t have amchur, add a tablespoon of lime juice for a similar tang.

Feel free to customize spices to your taste, but sticking to the recipe will give you the most authentic flavor.

Alternative Chickpea Recipes

If you enjoy Chana Masala, here are a few other chickpea-based dishes to try:

• Chickpea Biryani: An aromatic rice dish with chickpeas, great for a special meal.
• Chickpea and Beetroot Stir Fry: A quick, healthy option for lunch or dinner.
• Chole Paratha: Protein-rich stuffed bread with spiced chickpeas.
• Cucumber Salad with Chickpeas: A refreshing salad with an Indian twist.
• Coconut Curry with Chickpeas: Creamy, rich, and perfect for cozy nights.
• Avocado and Chickpea Sandwich: A filling and nutritious sandwich option.
• Kadala Curry: A flavorful South Indian chickpea curry.
• Kala Chana Curry: A simple yet hearty curry featuring black chickpeas.

Final Thoughts

Making Chana Masala at home is easier than you might think. With just a few steps and authentic ingredients, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe offers a straightforward way to enjoy classic Indian flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions