
Chole (Vegetarian Indian Chickpeas) Recipe
Chole vegetarian Indian chickpeas, also called chana masala, develops deep, robust flavor through simmering aromatic spices that create complex taste layers and satisfying protein. This traditional preparation demonstrates how legumes can be transformed into restaurant-quality dishes through proper spice combinations and cooking techniques that develop rich flavors. The deep and robust nature comes from traditional spice blending while the aromatic qualities create sensory appeal that makes vegetarian eating absolutely exciting. This protein-rich dish provides substantial nutrition while the traditional preparation honors Indian culinary heritage and authentic cooking methods. The complex flavoring proves that vegetarian dishes can be just as satisfying as meat-based preparations.

This chickpea dish, also referred to as chana masala, gets its deep, robust flavor from simmering together aromatic spices like anise pods, cloves, and garam masala. Serve with naan and basmati rice.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 small onion, diced
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger root
2 star anise pods
1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
½ cup water
1 teaspoon chile powder
1 teaspoon garam masala
¾ teaspoon salt
¾ teaspoon ground cumin
¾ teaspoon ground coriander
¼ teaspoon ground turmeric
1 whole clove, or more to taste
Directions
Heat oil in a medium pot over medium-high heat. Sauté onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic, ginger, and star anise. Continue to sauté until just fragrant. Add chickpeas, tomato sauce, water, chile powder, garam masala, salt, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and clove. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, until chickpeas start to soften, 5 to 7 minutes.
Mash some chickpeas directly in the pot to give sauce a chunkier consistency. Cover and continue simmering, stirring occasionally, until flavors come together, about 15 minutes. Remove star anise and clove before serving.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
143 | Calories |
5g | Fat |
22g | Carbs |
5g | Protein |
Nutrition Facts | |
---|---|
Servings Per Recipe 4 | |
Calories 143 | |
% Daily Value * | |
Total Fat 5g | 6% |
Saturated Fat 1g | 3% |
Sodium 943mg | 41% |
Total Carbohydrate 22g | 8% |
Dietary Fiber 5g | 17% |
Total Sugars 3g | |
Protein 5g | 9% |
Vitamin C 9mg | 10% |
Calcium 51mg | 4% |
Iron 2mg | 12% |
Potassium 360mg | 8% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.
(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.