Irresistible Instant Pot Chana Masala Recipe in 30 Minutes

Name: Instant Pot Chana Masala
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 tsp fresh ginger, grated; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 tsp cumin powder; 2 tsp coriander powder; 1 tsp garam masala; 1 cup light coconut milk; Salt to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

June 2, 2025

Updated:

June 2, 2025

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As the fragrant spices swirl around your kitchen, the aroma of Instant Pot Chana Masala will have you swooning faster than a rom-com on a lazy Sunday. Imagine tender chickpeas soaking up a spicy tomato sauce, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds. This dish is not just food; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy nights or when you need to impress your friends with minimal effort.

Remember the last time you tried to cook something complicated and ended up calling for takeout? Well, fear not! With this Instant Pot Chana Masala recipe, you’ll whip up a flavorful dish that’s both comforting and impressive without the drama. Whether it’s game night with friends or a simple family dinner, this dish promises to bring everyone together with its delightful taste and aroma.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Not only is this Instant Pot Chana Masala super easy to prepare, but it explodes with flavor in every bite
Its vibrant colors are visually appealing, making it an instant showstopper on your dinner table
You can customize the spice level according to your taste, keeping everyone happy
Perfect for meal prep, it’s delicious reheated and versatile enough for various occasions

Growing up, my mom would make Chana Masala every time we had friends over. The laughter and aromas filled our home, creating memories that still make me smile today.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Canned Chickpeas: Opt for low-sodium varieties if you’re watching your salt intake; they save time and effort.
Fresh Ginger: Use fresh ginger instead of powdered for a brighter flavor that elevates the dish.
Onions: Choose firm onions that are heavy for their size; they add sweetness when sautéed.
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes are great, but canned diced tomatoes work well for convenience and flavor.
Spices (Cumin, Coriander, Garam Masala): Fresh spices bring out maximum flavor; be sure they’re not expired!
Coconut Milk: Adds creaminess and balances the spices beautifully; use light coconut milk for fewer calories.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness right before serving; it’s optional but recommended!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by rinsing and draining your canned chickpeas under cold water. Chop the onions finely and grate fresh ginger to release its aromatic oils.

Sauté Aromatics: Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add some oil and toss in chopped onions until they become translucent and fragrant—about 5 minutes should do it!

Add Spices and Tomatoes: Stir in grated ginger along with cumin, coriander, and garam masala until they bloom. Pour in diced tomatoes and let everything simmer until thickened slightly—about 3 minutes will suffice.

Incorporate Chickpeas and Coconut Milk: Toss in those lovely chickpeas followed by coconut milk. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly without mashing the chickpeas.

Pressure Cook It!: Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set it to high pressure for 15 minutes. After cooking, let the pressure naturally release for about 10 minutes before carefully opening the lid.

Final Touches!: Give your Chana Masala a good stir. Taste it—add salt if needed—and finish with fresh cilantro sprinkled on top before serving hot with rice or naan.

Now go ahead! Dive into this comforting bowl of goodness that is as warm as grandma’s embrace!

You Must Know

Instant Pot Chana Masala is a flavorful dish that cooks quickly, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights
The rich aroma of spices fills the kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around the table
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, perfect for a healthy meal

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic in the Instant Pot for maximum flavor before adding spices and chickpeas. This sequence ensures that all flavors meld beautifully.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different beans or add coconut milk for creaminess. Extra veggies like spinach can boost nutrition and color.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Chana Masala in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warm.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use dried chickpeas for better texture; soak them overnight for optimal results
Always taste and adjust spices before serving to ensure perfect seasoning
Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor that impresses everyone at your table

It was a rainy Sunday when I first made this dish; my friends raved about it so much, I almost felt like a celebrity chef!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried?

Yes, canned chickpeas save time; just reduce cooking time accordingly.

What can I serve with Instant Pot Chana Masala?

Pair it with rice or naan to soak up all those delicious flavors.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and tastes even better the next day.

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