Black chickpea salad recipe
Black chickpea salad recipe
Kala Chana chaat is a nutritious Indian street food made with black chickpeas, onions, tomatoes, herbs, and spices. This protein-packed black chickpea salad is fresh, crunchy, and tangy. Serve this healthy and refreshing salad for a snack, lunch, or as an appetizer. Oil-free, vegan, and gluten-free.
Here’s a simple and nutritious black chickpea salad recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup black chickpeas (also known as kala chana), soaked overnight and cooked
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium tomato, finely chopped
- 1 cucumber, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, grated or finely chopped
- 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon chaat masala (available in Indian grocery stores)
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
- A pinch of black pepper (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Black Chickpeas:
- Rinse the soaked black chickpeas and cook them in a pressure cooker with water and a pinch of salt for about 15-20 minutes or until they are soft but not mushy. Alternatively, you can cook them in a pot on the stove, which may take around 45-60 minutes. Drain and let them cool.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked black chickpeas, chopped onion, tomato, cucumber, carrot, and green chili.
- Season the Salad:
- Add the chopped cilantro, lemon juice, chaat masala, and salt. Mix everything well.
- Add Optional Ingredients:
- If using, drizzle the olive oil over the salad and sprinkle a pinch of black pepper.
- Toss and Serve:
- Toss the salad to ensure all the ingredients are well coated with the seasonings. Serve immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for a bit to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips:
- Variations: You can add other veggies like bell peppers, corn, or even some boiled potatoes for variety.
- Protein Boost: Add some paneer cubes or feta cheese for extra protein.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Enjoy your healthy and delicious black chickpea salad!