Easy Instant Pot Chana Masala: 30-Minute Chickpea Curry

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Imagine a warm, comforting bowl of Easy Instant Pot Chana Masala {Chickpea Curry} wafting aromatic spices and vibrant colors that dance together in perfect harmony. The rich, creamy texture of this dish embraces your taste buds like an old friend, while the subtle kick of spices keeps things lively. Roasted Pumpkin Chickpea Curry Picture yourself scooping up this delightful curry with warm naan or fluffy rice, all while savoring the delightful mix of flavors.

Jump to:

Now, let me take you down memory lane to the first time I had chana masala. It was at a bustling street market in India, where the air was thick with spices and laughter. Amidst the chaos, I found a tiny stall with an elderly woman stirring a bubbling cauldron of chickpeas that seemed to sing songs from my childhood. She served it with such joy that I couldn’t help but smile as I dug into that flavorful treasure. Every spoonful transported me back to those sun-soaked days, making me realize that chana masala is not just food; it’s an experience worth savoring.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Easy Instant Pot Chana Masala is perfect for busy weeknights and requires minimal prep time.
  • Packed with robust flavors and wholesome ingredients, this dish satisfies both cravings and nutritional needs.
  • Its beautiful amber hue looks stunning on any dining table, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
  • Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; serve it over rice, with bread, or toss it into salads for a protein-packed meal.

Ingredients for Easy Instant Pot Chana Masala {Chickpea Curry}

Gourmet Charcuterie Lunchbox.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Canned Chickpeas: Use two cans for convenience; they’re already cooked and save you loads of time.
  • Onion: A medium-sized onion adds sweetness and depth to the dish; make sure to chop it finely.
  • Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide a punchy flavor that elevates the entire curry.
  • Fresh Ginger: A tablespoon of minced ginger enhances warmth and spice balance; don’t skip this!

For the Spices:

  • Garam Masala: This spice blend brings warmth and complexity; buy pre-mixed or create your own.
  • Cumin Powder: Adds an earthy flavor profile; toast it lightly for an extra depth of flavor.
  • Coriander Powder: Offers floral notes that complement chickpeas beautifully.

For the Sauce:

  • Diced Tomatoes: Use canned tomatoes for convenience; they add acidity and richness to balance flavors.
  • Coconut Milk: A splash makes the curry creamy without overpowering the spices; use full-fat for richness.

End with: “The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.” Miso Glazed Brussels Sprouts.

Recipe preparation for Easy Instant Pot Chana Masala {Chickpea Curry}

How to Make Easy Instant Pot Chana Masala {Chickpea Curry}

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Turn on your Instant Pot and select the sauté function. Add a drizzle of oil and toss in your chopped onions. Sauté until they’re golden brown—about five minutes—and then add minced garlic and ginger until fragrant.

Step 2: Spice It Up

Mix in garam masala, cumin powder, and coriander powder into your sautéed onions. Stir continuously for about one minute until everything is well combined and aromatic.

Step 3: Add Chickpeas

Pour in your drained canned chickpeas along with diced tomatoes (juice included) and coconut milk. Stir everything together, ensuring all those lovely spices coat the chickpeas evenly.

Step 4: Cook Under Pressure

Close the lid on your Instant Pot. Set it to high pressure for ten minutes. Once finished cooking, let it naturally release pressure for another ten minutes before carefully venting any remaining steam.

Step 5: Adjust Seasonings

Open up the lid to reveal your masterpiece! Give it a gentle stir and taste—add salt or more spices if needed based on your preference.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Transfer generous portions onto plates or bowls and serve hot! Accompany with freshly made naan or fluffy basmati rice for an unforgettable meal.

So there you have it! Your kitchen now smells like a flavorful Indian restaurant without all the hassle! Enjoy every bite as you dive into this mouthwatering Easy Instant Pot Chana Masala {Chickpea Curry}. Tuscan White Bean Soup.

You Must Know

  • This Easy Instant Pot Chana Masala delivers a burst of flavor with minimal effort.
  • Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish will impress your friends and family.
  • With its vibrant spices and hearty chickpeas, it’s a comforting hug in a bowl that everyone will love.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until they’re golden, releasing their flavor. Next, add the spices to bloom them before tossing in the chickpeas and tomatoes. Finally, let the Instant Pot work its magic while you sip tea and contemplate life.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap canned chickpeas for dried ones—just soak them overnight first! You can also throw in spinach or any leftover veggies for added nutrition. Want extra heat? Add some chopped green chilies or a dash of cayenne pepper.

Storing & Reheating

Store your Easy Instant Pot Chana Masala in an airtight container for up to five days in the fridge. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water if necessary.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Use fresh spices whenever possible; they elevate flavors dramatically.
  • If using dried chickpeas, ensure they are fully cooked before adding to the pot for best texture.
  • Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving to personalize your dish!

Sometimes, I whip up this Easy Instant Pot Chana Masala when I need comfort food after a long day. My family devours it every time—especially my brother who thinks he’s a curry connoisseur! For more inspiration, check out this Cozy Cabbage Soup recipe.

FAQs :

What is Easy Instant Pot Chana Masala {Chickpea Curry}?

Easy Instant Pot Chana Masala is a flavorful and nutritious chickpea curry that cooks quickly in an Instant Pot. This dish combines tender chickpeas with aromatic spices, tomatoes, and onions, creating a hearty meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s ideal for busy individuals looking for a quick yet satisfying vegetarian option. Enjoy it with rice or naan for a complete meal.

How long does it take to prepare Easy Instant Pot Chana Masala {Chickpea Curry}?

Preparing Easy Instant Pot Chana Masala takes about 10 minutes for prep and 30 minutes of cooking time, making it an efficient choice for busy weeknights. The pressure cooking process significantly reduces the overall time compared to traditional cooking methods. You’ll have a delicious, home-cooked meal on your table in under an hour, perfect for any occasion.

Can I make Easy Instant Pot Chana Masala {Chickpea Curry} vegan?

Yes, Easy Instant Pot Chana Masala is naturally vegan! The recipe uses plant-based ingredients like chickpeas, tomatoes, and spices without any animal products. This makes it an excellent choice for vegans or anyone looking to enjoy a healthy meal while adhering to a plant-based diet. Serve with rice or bread to enhance the experience.

What can I serve with Easy Instant Pot Chana Masala {Chickpea Curry}?

You can serve Easy Instant Pot Chana Masala with various sides to complement its rich flavors. Traditional pairings include basmati rice or naan bread. For a lighter option, consider serving it with quinoa or a fresh salad. You can also add yogurt or raita on the side to balance the spice and enhance the overall taste of the dish.

Conclusion for Easy Instant Pot Chana Masala {Chickpea Curry} :

Easy Instant Pot Chana Masala is not just quick to make; it’s also packed with flavor and nutrition. With minimal preparation and cooking time, you can enjoy this delicious chickpea curry any day of the week. Remember to pair it with your favorite sides for a wholesome meal experience. Whether you’re vegan or simply seeking comfort food, this recipe satisfies all cravings while being easy to whip up in your Instant Pot.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Easy Instant Pot Chana Masala (Chickpea Curry)


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  • Author: Clare Schmidt
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 4

Description

Experience the warmth and vibrant flavors of Easy Instant Pot Chana Masala, a quick and satisfying chickpea curry that brings a taste of India to your table. This aromatic dish combines tender chickpeas with a medley of spices, creating a creamy and comforting meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners, serve it over fluffy basmati rice or with warm naan for a delightful culinary adventure.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon cumin powder
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
  • 1 cup coconut milk (full-fat recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons oil (olive or vegetable)
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. 1. Sauté Aromatics: Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add oil and onions; cook until golden brown (about 5 minutes). Stir in garlic and ginger until fragrant.
  2. 2. Spice It Up: Mix in garam masala, cumin powder, and coriander powder; stir for one minute.
  3. 3. Add Chickpeas: Pour in chickpeas, diced tomatoes (with juice), and coconut milk. Stir well to combine.
  4. 4. Cook Under Pressure: Close the lid and set to high pressure for 10 minutes. Allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes before venting any remaining steam.
  5. 5. Adjust Seasonings: Open the lid and stir gently; taste and adjust salt or spices as needed.
  6. 6. Serve It Up: Spoon into bowls or plates and enjoy hot with naan or rice.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Pressure Cooking
  • Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 325
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 410mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 39g
  • Fiber: 10g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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