Indian Butter Chickpeas (Chana Makhani) Recipe: A Creamy and Flavorful Delight
If you love rich, creamy, and aromatic Indian curries, then Butter Chickpeas (Chana Makhani) is a must-try! This dish combines tender chickpeas with a velvety tomato-based sauce, infused with butter, cream, and fragrant spices. Perfectly paired with naan or basmati rice, this recipe is a vegetarian twist on the famous Butter Chicken. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering delight!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch ginger, grated
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for vegan option)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat butter and oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant.
- Pour in the pureed tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Stir in turmeric, cumin, garam masala, coriander, and red chili powder. Cook for another minute.
- Add chickpeas, salt, sugar, and water. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in cream and crushed kasuri methi. Mix well and cook for 2 more minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan or rice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Butter Chickpeas recipe is creamy, protein-rich, and packed with authentic Indian flavors. Whether you’re vegetarian or just looking for a new comfort food, this dish will satisfy your cravings. Try it today and experience a taste of India!