Saag Chana (Curried Chickpeas and Spinach)
Chana Saag is a comforting Indian dish featuring chickpeas in a flavorful spinach curry. This vegan, gluten-free recipe is a healthy and hearty meal often paired with basmati rice or naan bread. The dish brings together tender chickpeas, nutrient-rich spinach, and a variety of warm spices for a wholesome, satisfying meal.
3 cups cooked or canned chickpeas
12 ounces spinach
1 cup finely chopped tomatoes
½ cup chopped onion
½ cup water
2 tablespoons cashew cream (optional)
2 green chilies or jalapenos
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon coriander powder
¼ teaspoon red chili powder
½ teaspoon garam masala powder
¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon grated garlic
1 teaspoon grated ginger
2 tablespoons oil
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
Directions:
1. Heat oil in a skillet, then sauté onions, garlic, ginger, and green chili until the onions turn translucent (about 5 minutes).
2. Add spices (turmeric, cumin, coriander, garam masala, salt) and cook for another minute.
3. Stir in chopped spinach, cooking until wilted (5-6 minutes). Let cool, then blend into a paste.
4. In a separate pan, sauté tomatoes until soft, then add chickpeas, red chili powder, and water. Simmer for 4-5 minutes.
5. Add the spinach paste to the chickpeas and simmer for 3-4 minutes. Stir in cashew cream (optional).
6. Serve hot with basmati rice or naan.
Prep Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 216 kcal