A hearty one-pot meal that brings together the earthy flavor of black chana and the aroma of whole spices — Black Chana Masala Rice is comfort food with nutrition packed in every bite. Perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends, this rice is filling, flavourful, and full of goodness.
Heat oil in a cooking pot. Add jeera, cloves, cinnamon, bay leaf, and star anise. Let them release their aroma.
Add sliced onions and fry until they turn transparent. Then add the green chilli and ginger garlic paste. Sauté until the raw smell disappears.
Stir in the chopped tomato. Once it softens, add red chilli powder, garam masala, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well until the masala turns fragrant.
Add the soaked or sprouted black chana along with 1 cup of water. Cover and cook until the chana is half cooked
Add the washed rice, mix gently with the masala, and pour in the remaining 2½ cups of water.
Cook on medium flame for about 5 minutes, then reduce the heat and simmer for another 10 minutes until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed.
Sprinkle coriander leaves, fluff the rice gently, and serve hot.
Enjoy this wholesome rice with onion raita, plain curd, or any vegetable curry of your choice.
