
Saag Wala Chana is a hearty North Indian curry made with chickpeas (chana) simmered in a spiced spinach (saag) gravy. It typically features chickpeas, fresh spinach, onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and a blend of aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric. This dish is a staple in Punjabi cuisine and is widely enjoyed across India and Pakistan.
This dish is a balanced source of plant-based protein and complex carbohydrates, with moderate fat content depending on the cooking oil or ghee used. It is rich in dietary fiber, iron, folate, and vitamins A and C, providing a nutritious meal with a rough calorie range of 300-400 kcal per serving.
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Carbs | 45 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 10 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
| Iron | 5 mg |
| Folate | 180 mcg |
| Vitamin A | 300 mcg |
| Vitamin C | 25 mg |
| Potassium | 650 mg |
| Magnesium | 80 mg |
| Phosphorus | 200 mg |
| Zinc | 2.5 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
Saag Wala Chana is a classic example of how Indian cuisine combines legumes and leafy greens to create a nutritionally complete meal, offering all essential amino acids when paired with bread or rice. Culturally, it's a beloved comfort food often served during festivals and family gatherings, showcasing the region's agricultural bounty.