Best Ever Chana Masala with Cilantro Lime Rice

By AislePrompt Editorial · ·

How this recipe was made — this recipe was drafted by AislePrompt's AI-assisted pipeline from technique templates and USDA-sourced nutrition data, and published by AislePrompt Editorial — see how AislePrompt recipes are developed and reviewed.

A protein-packed Indian dish featuring tender chickpeas in a spiced tomato gravy, served over zesty cilantro-lime rice for the ultimate best meal. This Indian recipe (vegetarian), ready in about 55 minutes, pairs chickpeas, onion, ginger for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 580 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 25 min Cook: 30 min Serves 4 Indian cuisine 580 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Add 1 medium finely chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes until golden brown and sweet.
  2. Step 2: Stir in 1 tbsp grated ginger and 2 minced garlic cloves, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Step 3: Add 1 cup tomato puree, 1 tsp garam masala, 1/2 tsp turmeric, 1 tsp cumin, and 1 tsp coriander. Simmer for 8 minutes until the mixture thickens and oil separates.
  4. Step 4: Stir in 2 drained and rinsed cans chickpeas and 1/2 cup coconut milk. Cook uncovered for 10 minutes until chickpeas are coated and flavors meld.
  5. Step 5: While masala simmers, cook 1 cup basmati rice in 2 cups water for 15 minutes until fluffy. Stir in 1 juiced lime and 1/4 cup chopped cilantro after cooking.
  6. Step 6: Serve the chana masala spooned over cilantro-lime rice, garnished with extra cilantro and a lime wedge.

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