How to Make Chana Masala (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Chana Masala is a beloved vegetarian dish found across Dubai’s vibrant dining scene, from hotel restaurants to bustling business lunch spots and beach clubs. In Dubai, this flavorful chickpea stew is often featured alongside Emirati classics and Levantine mezze platters, making it a staple at Ramadan iftar buffets and suhoor spreads. Known locally as 'حمص بالبهارات' (Hummus Bil Baharat), Dubai’s version of Chana Masala blends aromatic spices with chickpeas for a hearty, wholesome meal. The dish’s origins are rooted in South-Asian-Dubai fusion, but it has become an integral part of Dubai’s multicultural culinary landscape. The taste is rich, tangy, and mildly spicy, reflecting the city’s love for bold flavors and healthy dining. Chana Masala is a great choice for anyone looking for a protein-packed, plant-based meal that fits perfectly within a halal, vegetarian diet. Its popularity during business lunches and Ramadan gatherings highlights its versatility and nutritious profile, catering to health-conscious residents and visitors alike.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat
Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
Step 2 · Add minced garlic and grated ginger
Add minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté until aromatic.
Step 3 · Stir in chopped tomatoes
Stir in chopped tomatoes. Cook until tomatoes soften and form a thick sauce.
Step 4 · Add ground cumin
Add ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Mix well and cook until the spices bloom.
Step 5 · Add cooked chickpeas and salt
Add cooked chickpeas and salt. Stir to coat chickpeas in the spice mixture.
Step 6 · Pour in 1/2 cup water
Pour in 1/2 cup water. Simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the masala thickens and chickpeas absorb the flavors.
Step 7 · Finish with lemon juice and chopped coriander leaves
Finish with lemon juice and chopped coriander leaves. Stir and turn off the heat.
Step 8 · Serve hot with whole wheat khubz or as part of a mezze spread
Serve hot with whole wheat khubz or as part of a mezze spread. Garnish with extra coriander.
Why this recipe is healthy
This Dubai-style Chana Masala is a healthy choice because it is vegetarian, halal, and made with minimal oil. It contains complex carbohydrates from chickpeas, helping regulate blood sugar and energy levels. The dish is free from processed ingredients, focusing on fresh produce and spices. Its high fiber content aids in satiety and weight management, making it a smart option for calorie-conscious diners. It’s also easily adaptable for vegan and diabetic diets.
A note on tradition
Chana Masala is cherished in Dubai for its inclusion in hotel restaurant menus, Levantine mezze spreads, and as a wholesome option for business lunches. During Ramadan, it is frequently served at iftar and suhoor, offering nourishment after fasting. Its vegetarian, halal profile resonates with Dubai’s diverse population, and the dish is often enjoyed alongside khubz or other Emirati breads, making it a staple of communal dining and festive gatherings.