Chickpea Masala Recipe

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
1 onion, finely chopped
2 tomatoes, pureed
3 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch ginger, grated
1 green chili, chopped (optional)
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp coriander powder
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp garam masala
1/2 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
1/2 cup coconut milk (optional, for a creamy texture)
1 tbsp oil
1/2 cup water
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle. Then, add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.

2. Build the Base:
Add garlic, ginger, and green chili. Cook for a minute until fragrant. Then, pour in the pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil separates from the mixture.

3. Add Spices & Chickpeas:
Stir in turmeric, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well, then add chickpeas and stir to coat them with the masala.

4. Simmer & Finish:
Pour in water (or coconut milk for a richer version). Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to blend. Finally, stir in garam masala and mix well.

5. Garnish & Serve:
Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top and serve hot with rice or flatbread.