Chana Saag (Chickpea Spinach Curry)
Chana Saag is a hearty and nutritious North Indian dish made with protein-rich chickpeas and fresh spinach, simmered in a flavorful blend of spices. This wholesome curry pairs well with rice or roti and makes for a comforting meal.
- DIFFICULTY: EASY
- 30 MINS
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried chickpeas (or 2 cups canned chickpeas)
- 3 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 green chili, chopped (optional)
- 1 medium tomato, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 3 cups spinach leaves, finely chopped
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 cup water (adjust as needed)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Method
Cook the Chickpeas:
- Soak dried chickpeas overnight.
- Pressure cook with water, salt, and turmeric for 3-4 whistles or until soft. Drain and set aside. (Skip this step if using canned chickpeas.)
Prepare the Curry Base:
- Heat oil or ghee in a pan. Add cumin seeds and bay leaf.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in ginger-garlic paste and green chili. Sauté for a minute.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft and mushy.
Cook the Masala:
- Add coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric, red chili powder, and garam masala.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes until the oil separates from the masala.
Add Spinach and Chickpeas:
- Add the chopped spinach and mix well.
- Stir in the cooked chickpeas and 1/2 cup water. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- Adjust salt and consistency as needed.
Final Touch:
- Add lemon juice and mix well.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot with roti, naan, or jeera rice.
- Enjoy with a side of plain yogurt or pickles.
Pro Tips
- For a creamy texture, blend half the spinach before adding it to the curry.
- Add a splash of coconut milk or fresh cream for a richer taste.
- You can replace spinach with mustard greens (sarson) for a different flavor.
