Chana Chaat (Spicy Snack)

Chana Chaat

Chana Chaat is a healthy and delicious snack. I am using kala chana for this recipe. Kala chana looks like chickpeas, but brown in color. This is a delightfully sweet and tangy snack. Channa Chaat will also make a very enjoyable lunch box meal.

3.75 from 4 votes

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Appetizer

Cuisine Indian

Servings 6 people

Ingredients

  

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• 1 cup kala chana
• 2 Tbsp oil Canola, or vegetable oil
• 1 Tbsp ginger finely shredded
• 1 Tbsp green chili finely chopped
• 1 Tbsp coriander powder dhania
• 1/4 cup tamarind pulp this is available in India grocery store or you can make it at home soaking the tamarind and squeeze the pulp. But not the concentrated tamarind
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black salt
• 1 Tbsp sugar
• 2 tsp roasted cumin seed powder bhuna jeera
• 1 cup potato boiled peeled and cut in small pieces
• 1/2 cup cucumber chopped in small pieces
• 1/2 cup tomatoes chopped in small pieces

For garnishing

• 1 Tbsp ginger finely chopped
• 1 Tbsp green chilies finely chopped
• 5-6 wedges of lemon

Instructions

 

• Wash and soak kala chana in approx. 4 cups of water, for at least 4 hours. The kala chana will double in volume after soaking.
• In pressure cooker cook kala chana with 2 cups of water over medium high heat. As pressure cooker starts steaming turn the heat down to low medium and cook for about 15 minutes. Close the heat and wait until steam has stopped before opening the pressure cooker. Chana should be soft and tender.
• Drain the water and save it for later use, this water is high in protein and can be used for making the soup or dals.
• Heat the oil in a sauce pan over medium high heat. Add the chana, stir for few seconds. Add ginger and green chili, coriander powder, sauté for about 1 minutes.
• Add salt, black salt, red chili powder, and sugar, add tamarind pulp. Cook for 3-4 minutes over low heat. If needed use few spoons of water, Chana mix should be moist. Turn off the heat.
• Assemble the Kala Chana Chaat, add chopped potatoes, tomatoes, and cucumber, drizzle the roasted cumin seeds powder and mix it well. If desired garnish with sliced ginger, green chilies and drizzle the lemon juice.

Notes

Prep Time of 10 minutes does not include soaking time.

Suggestions

You can serve chana chaat without adding the veggies, it tastes delicious. You can always adjust quantity of veggies to your choice. Also adjust the green chili and red pepper to your choice. After spicing the chana mix with cooked plain rice to make spicy delicious meal.

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Recipe for Chana Chaat: Elevate Your Snack Game with This Delicious Dish

Chana chaat is a quintessential Indian street food known for its burst of flavors and satisfying crunch. This recipe for chana chaat brings together the wholesome goodness of kala chana (black chickpeas) with an array of spices and fresh vegetables, creating a dish that’s both nutritious and delicious. Whether enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or light meal, chana chaat is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

To begin your culinary journey with chana chaat, start by washing and soaking kala chana in water for at least 4 hours. This step is crucial as it helps the chana soften and swell, enhancing its texture and flavor. Once soaked, cook the kala chana in a pressure cooker until tender and soft. The aroma of freshly cooked chana will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for the flavorful dish that is to come.

Now, it’s time to infuse the cooked chana with a medley of spices. Heat oil in a saucepan and sauté ginger, green chili, and coriander powder until fragrant. Then, add the cooked chana along with salt, black salt, red chili powder, sugar, and tangy tamarind pulp. Allow the spices to meld together, coating the chana in a burst of savory and tangy flavors. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences, adding more spice for a fiery kick or dialing it down for a milder flavor profile.

Once the chana is well-coated with the spice mixture, it’s time to assemble the chana chaat. Add chopped potatoes, tomatoes, and cucumber to the chana mixture, creating a colorful and vibrant medley of flavors and textures. For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle roasted cumin seeds powder over the chaat, adding a depth of earthy aroma to the dish. Finally, garnish with sliced ginger, green chilies, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten up the flavors.

Variations:

• Sprouted Chana Chaat: For a healthier twist, use sprouted chana instead of cooked chana. Sprouted chana is rich in nutrients and adds a delightful crunch to the chaat.
• Fruit Chaat: Incorporate seasonal fruits like apples, grapes, and pomegranate seeds into the chaat for a refreshing and fruity twist.
• Yogurt Chaat: Drizzle some creamy yogurt over the chana chaat for a creamy and tangy variation. Top it off with some mint chutney and tamarind chutney for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips:

• Save the Cooking Water: The water leftover from cooking the chana is rich in protein and can be used to make soups or dals, adding a nutritious boost to your meals.
• Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the spices and seasoning according to your taste preferences. Experiment with different combinations to create your perfect flavor profile.
• Serve with Rice: For a hearty meal, serve the spiced chana mixture with cooked plain rice, creating a satisfying and flavorful dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

Benefits:

• High in Protein: Kala chana is rich in protein, making chana chaat a nutritious and filling snack option.
• Rich in Fiber: The addition of fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and potatoes adds fiber to the dish, aiding in digestion and promoting overall gut health.
• Packed with Flavor: The blend of spices and tangy tamarind pulp creates a flavor explosion in every bite, making chana chaat a truly irresistible snack option.

FAQ:

Can I Make Chana Chaat Ahead of Time? 

Yes, you can prepare the chana mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. Simply assemble the chaat with fresh vegetables and spices before serving.

Can I Skip Adding Veggies to Chana Chaat? 

While vegetables add freshness and texture to the chaat, you can certainly enjoy chana chaat without them. Adjust the recipe according to your taste preferences.

How Long Does Chana Chaat Last in the Refrigerator? 

Chana chaat can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.

In conclusion, chana chaat is a delightful dish that combines the goodness of kala chana with a burst of spices and fresh vegetables. With this recipe of chana chaat mastered, you’ll have a versatile snack that’s perfect for any occasion. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on a flavorful culinary adventure with chana chaat.

Explore more recipes on Manjula’s Kitchen: Vegetable Samosas, Paneer Tikka, Crispy Spinach Pakoras, Mango Lassi, Masala Chai, Gulab Jamun, Kheer (Rice Pudding)