What is chana masala?

What is Chana Masala?

Chana masala (chole in some regions) is a Punjabi dish of chickpeas in a dry-ish, heavily spiced tomato and onion sauce. The sauce uses whole and ground spices — cumin seeds, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, and importantly amchur (dried mango powder) or pomegranate powder for tartness. The chickpeas are cooked until tender but hold their shape.

Taste and texture

Bold, tangy, and spiced. The amchur adds a sharp, fruity sourness distinct from lemon juice. The chickpeas are satisfying and absorb the sauce. Moderate heat.

Typical ingredients

• Chickpeas (canned or dried and soaked)
• Tomatoes (chopped or pureed)
• Onion
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Cumin seeds
• Coriander powder
• Garam masala
• Turmeric
• Amchur (dried mango powder)
• Kashmiri chilli

Common allergens to ask about

The following allergens are commonly present in Chana Masala. Ingredient lists vary by restaurant — always confirm with your server if you have dietary restrictions.

• Legumes (chickpeas)
• Wheat (naan if ordered)

How it's served

In a bowl with bhatura (deep-fried bread) for chole bhature, or with rice, roti, or naan.

Order it if you like…

Order it if you want a vegetarian dish with real flavour complexity and substance. Chana masala is satisfying enough to be a full meal.

Similar dishes

Dal Makhani · Butter Chicken · See all dishes in the dictionary

Reading the menu that lists Chana Masala

Use ChefBear to scan the menu and see every dish — including Chana Masala — with a photo, description, and a recommendation for your taste. For a full guide to Indian menus, see how to read a Indian menu.

Frequently asked questions

Is chana masala the same as chole?

Yes and no. Chole and chana masala both refer to chickpea curry, but chole specifically means the classic Punjabi preparation often served with bhatura (chole bhature). The terms overlap.

What is amchur?

Amchur (aamchur) is a tart, tangy powder made from dried unripe green mangoes. It adds a fruity sourness to dishes without the moisture of fresh lemon juice, keeping dry curries like chana masala from becoming too wet.

Is chana masala vegan?

Yes — chana masala contains no dairy or meat and is one of the most naturally vegan dishes in Indian cooking. Confirm with the restaurant that no ghee is used.