Cholay (Curried Chickpeas)

Cholay (Curried Chickpeas) are packed with plant-based protein, healthy fiber and are easy to make.

This dish is vegan, gluten-free and can be made oil free by simply sautéing onions in water.

It is a filling dish that can be a complete meal when served with rice or bread.

Chickpeas can cause bloating and gas in some people.

This dish can be high in sodium if canned chickpeas are used.

Chickpeas provide plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins.
They can support heart health, digestion, and weight management.

	2 cups water
	1 tea bag
	1 bay leaf
	2 cans garbanzo beans , drained
	2 tablespoons vegetable oil , divided
	1 onion , sliced
	3 tomatoes , chopped
	1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
	1 teaspoon ground coriander
	1 teaspoon cumin seeds
	1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger root
	1 teaspoon grated garlic
	1 teaspoon ground turmeric ( optional )
	1 onion , finely chopped
	ground cayenne pepper to taste
	1 pinch garam masala ( optional )

1.	In a small pot bring water to a boil with tea bag and bay leaf. Boil for a minute, remove tea bag and keep water aside.
2.	Heat one tablespoon of oil in a skillet and fry sliced onions until golden brown. Remove onions from the skillet and set aside.
3.	In the same skillet, add the remaining oil, cumin seeds, cloves, cinnamon stick and fry for 30 seconds.
4.	Add finely chopped onion and fry until golden brown.
5.	Add garlic and ginger, fry for 30 seconds and then add chopped tomato.
6.	Fry the tomato mixture for a few minutes then add coriander powder, cumin seeds, salt, turmeric (if using), and cayenne pepper.
7.	Saute the spice mix for a minute or two then add chickpeas and fry for a few minutes.
8.	Add tea water to the skillet, bring it to a boil, lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered for 10 minutes or until the desired consistency is achieved. Add water if necessary.
9.	Sprinkle garam masala (if using), fried onions, and cilantro leaves on top, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
10.	Turn off the heat and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.