RESTAURANT STYLE CHICKPEA BUTTER MASALA (EASY TO MAKE) | Chole Butter Masala

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through making Chickpea Butter Masala, also known as Chole Butter Masala, a popular Indian dish known for its rich and creamy flavor. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-style meal at home.

Step 1: Gather Ingredients

Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you'll need:

• 1 large can (822 gm) of cooked chickpeas (484 gm without liquid)
• 15 gm (1-inch piece) ginger
• 4 large garlic cloves (approx. 11 gm)
• 3 large tomatoes (390 gm) or 1.5 cups canned crushed/diced tomatoes
• 1 large onion (185 gm)
• 1 tsp whole cumin seeds
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder (haldi)
• 1 heaped tsp Kashmiri chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 2 tsp ground coriander (dhania powder)
• 1 tsp ground cumin (jeera powder)
• 1 tsp garam masala powder
• 1 tsp dried fenugreek leaves (kasoori methi)
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• 2 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tbsp thick tomato paste (optional)
• 1 tbsp + 1 tsp oil
• 3 to 4 tbsp butter
• 1 cup hot water + 1/2 cup water for blending chickpeas
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• Chopped coriander leaves (cilantro) for garnish

Step 2: Prepare the Base

1. Chop the Vegetables: Finely chop the onion, ginger, and garlic. Dice or puree the tomatoes if using fresh ones.
2. Heat Oil: In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
3. Sauté Spices: Add whole cumin seeds to the hot oil. Once they start to sizzle, add the chopped onions. Sauté until they become golden brown.
4. Add Ginger and Garlic: Stir in the ginger and garlic. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Masala

1. Add Tomatoes: Incorporate the chopped or pureed tomatoes into the pan. Cook until the mixture thickens and the oil separates.
2. Incorporate Spices: Add the following spices to the mixture:
   • Turmeric powder
   • Kashmiri chili powder
   • Ground coriander
   • Ground cumin
   • Garam masala
   • Dried fenugreek leaves
3. Season: Add salt, sugar, black pepper, and sweet paprika. Mix well and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare Chickpeas

1. Blend Chickpeas: Reserve a third of a cup of cooked chickpeas to be pureed later. Blend the remaining chickpeas with 1/2 cup of water until smooth.
2. Combine Mixtures: Add the blended chickpeas to the masala and mix thoroughly.

Step 5: Final Cooking

1. Add Water: Pour in 1 cup of hot water and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
2. Cook: Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Add Butter and Cream: Stir in the butter, heavy cream, and tomato paste (if using). Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Finish: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish: Top with chopped coriander leaves.
2. Enjoy: Serve hot with rice, naan, or chapati.

Conclusion

Chickpea Butter Masala is a delicious and satisfying dish that can easily be made at home. With the right ingredients and steps, you can create a flavorful meal that rivals any restaurant version. Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices according to your taste. Enjoy your cooking experience!