Quick Chana Masala

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Grate 1 large red onion on the large holes of a box grater; set aside. Cut ends off 2 plum tomatoes and grate flesh down to skins; discard skins. Set aside separately.

   Step 2

   Bring two 15-oz. cans chickpeas with their liquid to a boil in a medium saucepan; cook, stirring occasionally, until chickpeas swell slightly and are a bit lighter in color, 10–15 minutes. Remove from heat.

   Step 3

   Meanwhile, heat 3 Tbsp. vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium. Cook 1 tsp. cumin seeds, swirling pan, until seeds start to pop and sputter, 10–20 seconds. Add 6 garlic cloves, finely grated, one 1" piece ginger, peeled, finely grated, and reserved grated red onion. Cook, stirring often, until most of the water has evaporated, 7–9 minutes.

   Step 4

   Add reserved grated tomatoes to skillet and cook, stirring, 1 minute. Add 2 tsp. garam masala, 2 tsp. Diamond Crystal or 1¼ tsp. Morton kosher salt, 1 tsp. ground coriander, ½ tsp. amchur (dry mango powder), ½ tsp. ground turmeric, ½ tsp. Kashmiri or other red chile powder, and ⅛ tsp. ground cinnamon. Cook, stirring, until fragrant and color deepens slightly, about 2 minutes.

   Step 5

   Add chickpeas with their liquid to pan, reduce heat, and simmer, stirring often, until mixture thickens and takes on a slightly shiny appearance as the oils start to separate, 10–15 minutes. Stir juice of ½ lime, ¼ cup chopped cilantro, and 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter (if using) into chana masala.

   Step 6

   Divide chana masala among bowls and top with cilantro leaves with tender stems and sliced red onion (if using). Serve with steamed rice, naan, or crusty bread.