🌿 Chana Masala with Hing – A Comforting, Digestive-Friendly Curry

At Nature’s Basket, we love bringing you recipes that not only taste amazing but also carry the wisdom of traditional wellness. This Chana Masala is a beloved Indian classic — hearty chickpeas simmered in a rich, spiced gravy — and here, we’re giving it an Ayurvedic twist by adding Hing (Asafoetida).

Why Hing?

Hing has been treasured in Ayurveda for centuries for its powerful digestive properties. Just a pinch can:

• Aid digestion and reduce bloating

• Add a unique, savoury depth of flavour

• Replace onion/garlic in recipes for those avoiding them

When lightly sautéed in oil, Hing releases a warm, umami aroma that transforms the entire dish.

💡 At Nature’s Basket, we offer two types of Hing Powder:

• Gluten-Free Hing Powder – Perfect for those with gluten sensitivity or coeliac needs.

• Traditional Hing Powder (contains gluten) – The classic version for those who prefer the traditional blend.

Both are aromatic, pure, and ideal for cooking.

🌱 Ingredients (Serves 3–4)

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained & rinsed)

• 2 tbsp oil (or ghee)

• 1 tsp cumin seeds

• A pinch of Hing Powder (gluten-free or traditional)

• 1 large onion – finely chopped

• 2 medium tomatoes – finely chopped

• 2 green chilies – slit (optional)

• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste

• ½ tsp turmeric powder

• 1 tsp coriander powder

• 1 tsp cumin powder

• 1 tsp garam masala

• ½ tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)

• 1 cup water (adjust to desired thickness)

• Salt to taste

• Fresh coriander leaves – chopped

🍲 Method

1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.

2. Sprinkle in Hing Powder (your choice of gluten-free or traditional) and stir for a few seconds until the aroma blooms.

3. Add onions and sauté until golden.

4. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, cooking for 1 minute.

5. Add tomatoes and all powdered spices except garam masala. Cook until the oil begins to separate from the masala.

6. Add chickpeas, salt, and water. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, letting the flavours meld.

7. Stir in garam masala, garnish with fresh coriander, and serve hot.

🥄 Serving Ideas

• Pair with steamed basmati rice for a comforting lunch or dinner.

• Scoop up with naan, roti, or paratha for an authentic Indian feast.

• Sprinkle with fresh onions, lemon juice, and extra chilies for a street-food style kick.

💡 Nature’s Basket Tip

Always sauté Hing in hot oil or ghee before adding other ingredients — this activates its aroma and health benefits. A tiny pinch goes a long way!

Bring home the magic of Hing with our Gluten-Free Hing Powder or Traditional Hing Powder and make this Chana Masala a part of your healthy cooking repertoire.