Channa Masala Gravy | Traditional South Indian Style Recipe | Madras Samayal

Channa Masala, also known as Konda Kadalai Masala, is a delicious and protein-packed gravy that pairs perfectly with chapati, puri, rice, or dosa. This spicy, tangy, and flavorful dish is made using simple ingredients, ensuring a rich and satisfying taste. Let’s learn how to prepare this mouth-watering Channa Masala Gravy at home!

Ingredients

For Cooking the Chickpeas

• 200g Konda Kadalai (Chickpeas) (soaked for 8 hours)
• Water (for boiling)
• Salt (to taste)

For the Masala Paste

• 1 tbsp oil
• 2 onions (chopped)
• 1-inch ginger piece
• 4 garlic cloves
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 2 tbsp chilli powder
• 1 tsp dry mango powder (optional – can substitute with lemon juice at the end)
• 2 tomatoes (chopped)
• 1 cup water (for blending)

For the Gravy Base

• 2 tbsp oil
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 bay leaf
• 3 cardamoms
• 3 cloves
• ½ tsp cumin seeds
• 2 green chillies (slit)
• Cooked chickpeas
• Salt (as needed)
• 1 tsp coriander leaves (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Step 1: Cooking the Chickpeas

1. Soak 200g of chickpeas in water for 8 hours.
2. Drain and transfer the chickpeas to a pressure cooker.
3. Add fresh water and salt, then cook for 4 to 5 whistles.
4. Once done, drain and keep aside.

Step 2: Preparing the Masala Paste

1. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pan.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté for 2 minutes until slightly golden.
3. Add ginger, garlic, turmeric powder, cumin powder, garam masala, coriander powder, chilli powder, and dry mango powder.
4. Stir well and cook for a minute.
5. Add chopped tomatoes, mix, and cover with a lid. Cook for 6 to 7 minutes until soft.
6. Once cooled, blend the mixture into a smooth paste.

Step 3: Preparing the Gravy

1. Heat 2 tbsp oil in a pan.
2. Add cinnamon, bay leaf, cardamoms, cloves, cumin seeds, and green chillies, sautéing until fragrant.
3. Pour in the blended masala paste and mix well.
4. Add salt as needed.
5. Stir in the boiled chickpeas and let it cook for 5 minutes.
6. Mash a few chickpeas with a spoon or masher to thicken the gravy.
7. Let it cook for another 2 minutes until the desired consistency is reached.
8. Switch off the flame and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Serving Suggestions

Channa Masala Gravy is best enjoyed with chapati, puri, dosa, or steamed rice. It is a perfect dish for both lunch and dinner, giving you a rich and satisfying meal.

Watch the Full Recipe Video

A Heartfelt Tribute

This authentic Channa Masala Gravy is a beautiful representation of traditional home cooking, blending rich spices and flavors effortlessly. A special thanks to Madras Samayal for sharing this wonderful recipe and helping us bring delightful South Indian flavors to our homes!

Enjoy your meal!