
Chickpea and Spinach Curry, often called Chana Saag or Palak Chana, is a hearty and flavorful vegetarian dish from the Indian subcontinent. It features tender chickpeas simmered in a spiced, creamy spinach-based gravy, typically made with onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and a blend of aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric.
This dish is a balanced source of plant-based protein and complex carbohydrates, with healthy fats often coming from cooking oil or ghee. It is exceptionally high in dietary fiber, iron, folate, and vitamins A, C, and K, providing a rough calorie range of 250-350 kcal per typical serving.
| Calories | 300 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbs | 35 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 10 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
| Iron | 6 mg |
| Folate | 200 mcg |
| Vitamin A | 300 mcg RAE |
| Vitamin C | 15 mg |
| Vitamin K | 150 mcg |
| Magnesium | 80 mg |
| Potassium | 500 mg |
| Phosphorus | 180 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
Culturally, this dish is a staple in many Indian households and represents the versatility of vegetarian cuisine in the region. Nutritionally, the combination of chickpeas and spinach creates a complete amino acid profile, making it an excellent protein source for plant-based diets.