Amritsari Chole, a spicy and tangy chickpea curry, is one of the most iconic street foods from North India. Bursting with bold flavors and perfectly spiced, this dish is known for its deep color and rich aroma. Whether served with bhature, kulcha, or jeera rice, this Amritsari Chole recipe delivers restaurant-style taste right from your kitchen.
Ingredients for Amritsari Chole
- 1 cup dried chickpeas (kabuli chana)
- 1 tea bag or 1 tsp black tea leaves in a muslin cloth
- 2 tbsp oil or ghee
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 inch cinnamon stick
- 2 black cardamoms
- 1 finely chopped onion
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 2 medium tomatoes, pureed
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp amchur (dry mango powder)
- ½ tsp garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
- Water as required
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Soak and Boil Chickpeas
Soak chickpeas overnight. Pressure cook with tea bag, salt, and water until soft (4–5 whistles). Discard tea bag.
Step 2 – Make the Masala
Heat oil, add cumin seeds, bay leaf, cinnamon, and cardamom. Sauté onions until golden, then add ginger-garlic paste and cook until raw smell disappears.
Step 3 – Add Tomato and Spices
Add tomato puree and cook until oil separates. Add red chili, turmeric, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well.
Step 4 – Simmer Chickpeas
Add boiled chickpeas and a little water. Simmer for 15–20 minutes on low flame for flavors to blend.
Step 5 – Finish and Garnish
Sprinkle amchur and garam masala. Mix and garnish with chopped coriander leaves. Serve hot.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Amritsari Chole
- Use a tea bag while boiling to give chickpeas a dark, rich color.
- Soaking overnight is essential for soft, well-cooked chickpeas.
- Add amchur for authentic tangy flavor.
- Cook masala well until oil separates for maximum taste.
- Mash a few chickpeas for a thicker gravy.
Nutritional Benefits (Per Serving Approx.)
- Calories: 180–200 kcal
- Protein: 7g
- Carbs: 25g
- Fiber-rich and a good source of plant-based protein
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use canned chickpeas?
Yes, but rinse them well. Reduce cooking time as they are already soft.
- What can I serve with Amritsari Chole?
Serve with bhature, kulcha, roti, or jeera rice.
- How to make chole without onion and garlic?
Skip onion and garlic, and enhance flavors with extra spices and tomato.
- Can I freeze Amritsari Chole?
Yes, cool completely and freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 weeks.
- How to thicken the gravy?
Mash a few chickpeas while simmering to thicken the curry naturally.
Conclusion
This authentic Amritsari Chole recipe brings the streets of Punjab to your plate. Spicy, tangy, and full of bold flavors, it’s a perfect meal for lunch, dinner, or festive occasions. Pair it with bhature or kulcha for a complete North Indian treat.
Also read – Pindi Chole Recipe – Authentic Punjabi Chole with Smoky, Spiced Flavor
