Kala Chana Masala
Kala Chana Masala is a hearty, aromatic curry made from black chickpeas (kala chana) simmered in a spiced onion-tomato gravy. It is a staple vegetarian dish from North India, particularly popular in Punjabi and home-style cooking. The dish is known for its robust, earthy flavor and satisfying texture.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is an excellent source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber, making it very filling and nutritionally balanced. A typical serving is relatively low in fat and provides a good amount of complex carbohydrates, with a calorie range of approximately 250-300 kcal per serving.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Carbs | 42 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Fiber | 12 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
| Iron | 4.5 mg |
| Folate | 280 mcg |
| Magnesium | 80 mg |
| Phosphorus | 220 mg |
| Zinc | 2.8 mg |
| Manganese | 1.6 mg |
| Potassium | 550 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.4 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Kala Chana is a nutritional powerhouse, often called a 'poor man's meat' for its high protein content, and it's a key ingredient in traditional festive meals and fasting days in some Indian cultures. Its unique dark color comes from the black skin of the chickpea, which is rich in antioxidants.
