Chole Masala Recipe (Pakistani Chikar Cholay)

Here is quick and easy chole masala recipe, known locally as Lahori Chikar Cholay. It's made with cooked chickpeas, garam masala, and a blend of spices. This dish is a beloved choice in Pakistani street food and is commonly paired with halwa poori, naan, or paratha.

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Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Indian, Pakistani

Keyword: chikkar cholay, chole masala recipe, lahori chole

Prep Time: 15

Cook Time: 30

Total Time: 45

Servings: Persons

Calories: 348kcal

Author: Hinz

Ingredients

1 tablespoon Onion + Ginger + Garlic Paste
1 tablespoon Oil
1 teaspoon Cumin Seeds
Salt to taste
1 ts[ Red chili powder
1 teaspoon Turmeric powder
1 teaspoon Coriander powder
1 cup Yogurt
2 cups Chickpeas cooked/boiled
2 cups Chicken Stock
1 teaspoon Black Pepper
½ teaspoon Black Salt
1 teaspoon Garam Masala Powder
¼ teaspoon Baking Soda
Julianne ginger & Green Chilies For Garnishing

Instructions

Blend onion, ginger, and garlic together to create a thick paste.
Heat some oil in a pan. Once hot, toss in cumin seeds and sauté for a few seconds.
Next, add the onion, ginger, and garlic paste to the oil and stir well. Incorporate additional spices, including red chili powder, turmeric, and coriander, stirring until the raw flavors are cooked out. If needed, add a splash of water to prevent the spices from burning.
Mix in yogurt and continue stirring until the masala is well combined.
When the gravy thickens and the masala is ready, gently fold in the boiled chickpeas.
Pour in 300 ml of chicken stock (broth) or water to achieve a slightly thinner gravy.
To help the chickpeas blend with the gravy, add a pinch of baking soda.
Sprinkle a pinch of baking soda. This step will help to tenderize the chickpeas and make a creamy and soft texture.
Cover the pan and simmer the curry for 25 minutes.
Finally, garnish with sliced ginger and green chilies, and serve alongside tandoor roti or paratha.

Video

Notes

For best results, opt for home-cooked chickpeas.
Using organic chickpeas significantly boosts the flavor. These are known as Ceci Piccoli (Small Chickpea or desi cholay).
To achieve the soft and creamy texture in chana masala, add a small pinch of baking soda. This trick will help you replicate the delightful texture of chole masala found in street food.
The right amount of black pepper powder and spices is essential for creating the distinctive color of chikkar cholay.

Nutrition

Serving: 100g | Calories: 348kcal