Description
Saag Chana
Saag Chana, also known as Chana Saag, is a hearty and nutritious Indian curry made with chickpeas and leafy greens like spinach. “Saag” means greens in Hindi, and “Chana” means chickpeas, so this dish brings together the best of both worlds! It is vegan, gluten-free, and pairs wonderfully with fluffy basmati rice or soft naan bread. This cozy dish has been a staple in Indian kitchens, blending simple spices to create a comforting, flavorful meal that warms your soul. Whether you’re a curry lover or exploring new dishes, Saag Chana is a must-try!
3 cups cooked or canned chickpeas
12 oz spinach
1 cup tomatoes, finely chopped
½ cup onion, chopped
2 tbsp oil
2 green chilies or jalapeno
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp coriander powder
¼ tsp red chili powder
½ tsp garam masala powder
¼ tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp garlic, grated
1 tsp ginger, grated
Salt to taste
½ cup water
2 tbsp cashew cream (optional)
Directions:
1. Heat oil, sauté onions, garlic, ginger, and green chilies until onions turn translucent.
2. Add spices and salt, cook briefly, then add spinach and cook for 5-6 minutes.
3. Blend cooked spinach into a coarse paste.
4. Heat oil, cook tomatoes until soft, then add chickpeas, spinach paste, and water.
5. Let simmer, add cashew cream if using, and serve hot!
Prep Time: 50 mins
Kcal: 216 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare Ingredients: Rinse canned chickpeas. Wash and roughly chop spinach. Finely chop tomatoes, onion, green chilies, and grate ginger and garlic.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pan, heat 1 tbsp oil. Add chopped onion, grated garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Sauté on medium heat until onions are soft and translucent.
3. Cook Spinach: Add the cumin, coriander, red chili powder, turmeric, and salt to the pan. Stir for 30 seconds. Add all the spinach and cook for 5-6 minutes until wilted. Let it cool slightly, then blend into a coarse paste.
4. Build the Curry: In the same pan, heat the remaining 1 tbsp oil. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft and mushy. Add the cooked chickpeas, the spinach paste, and ½ cup water. Stir well.
5. Simmer & Finish: Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes on low heat. Stir in cashew cream (if using) and garam masala. Simmer for 2 more minutes. Adjust salt and serve.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Saag Chana hot, garnished with a drizzle of cream or a squeeze of lemon. It pairs perfectly with steamed basmati rice, jeera rice, or warm, buttery naan or roti. For a complete meal, add a side of cooling cucumber raita or a simple onion salad.
How-to Summary
Saag Chana is made by sautéing onions, ginger, garlic, and spices, wilting spinach into this mixture, and blending it into a paste. This flavorful green paste is then combined with sautéed tomatoes and chickpeas, simmered until rich and hearty, and finished with garam masala.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other greens? Yes. Mustard greens (sarson) or kale are excellent, authentic alternatives to spinach, offering a more robust flavor.
How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water.
Is it freezer-friendly? Absolutely. Cool completely and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Can I make it without oil? For an oil-free version, sauté the aromatics in 3-4 tablespoons of vegetable broth or water.
How can I make it creamier? Stir in 2-3 tablespoons of coconut milk, yogurt, or more cashew cream at the end of cooking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-blending the spinach: Blend to a coarse paste, not a smooth puree, for better texture.
- Burning the spices: Cook ground spices for only 30 seconds before adding spinach to prevent burning.
- Using undercooked tomatoes: Cook tomatoes until completely soft to form a rich base for the gravy.
- Skimping on simmering time: A proper 10-15 minute simmer allows the chickpeas to absorb all the flavors.
Conclusion
Saag Chana is a quintessential, nourishing curry that masterfully combines protein-rich chickpeas with vibrant greens and aromatic spices. This vegan and gluten-free dish is surprisingly simple to prepare and delivers deep, comforting flavors. By following this guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home. It’s a versatile, healthy, and utterly delicious addition to your culinary repertoire.