Kala chana chaat: Easy recipe from Chef Kunal Kapur. Celebrity chef and MasterChef India judge Kunal Kapur shared a nostalgic snack recipe on Instagram on July 12, describing it as a dish that transports older generations to their school days, before pizzas dominated the snack scene.
Kala chana chaat is comfort in its simplest form, as Kapur noted in his caption. “A bowl of warm chana chaat is comfort in its simplest form. Wholesome chickpeas, fresh veggies, a squeeze of lemon, and just the right spices come together for a snack that’s hearty, nourishing, and full of flavour,” he wrote, perfect for when you crave something quick, healthy, and satisfying.
The recipe starts with soaking kala chana overnight and boiling it. In a pan, heat 2 tablespoons oil, add half a teaspoon asafoetida, 2 teaspoons finely chopped ginger, and 2 green chillies. After they splutter, add half a teaspoon turmeric, 1.5 teaspoons red chilli powder, and 1 teaspoon coriander powder. Mix in 2 cups boiled chana, a pinch of kasoori methi, salt, and half a cup water, cooking until the water reduces. Transfer to a platter, then add one-third cup each of chopped onion, boiled potatoes, tomato, cucumber, plus salt, half a teaspoon black salt, half a teaspoon roasted cumin powder, 2 teaspoons chaat masala, a handful of coriander, and juice of one lemon. Mix well.
Serve the kala chana chaat in bowls and enjoy. This easy recipe makes kala chana chaat a perfect healthy snack for family gatherings, reminding us of simpler times.