Channa masala

Ingredients: 

• 3 Tbsp oil 
• 1 red onion, finely diced
• 1 Tbsp ground cumin
• 1 Tbsp jeera
• 1 Tbsp onion seeds
• 2 Tsp ajjwain seeds
• 1Tbsp ground coriander
• Sea salt to taste 
• 6 cloves garlic, minced (6 cloves yield ~3 Tbsp)
• 2 Tbsp fresh ginger, minced
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 Tbsp everest channa masala powder (any brand works)
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 4 medium sized finely diced tomatoes
• 2 cups chickpeas, soaked and drained
• 1 tsp sugar
• 2 Tbsp kauri methi

Instructions:

1. Heat a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add oil, cumin, onion seeds, ajjwain, onion and one-third of the salt 
2. Add chopped/crushed garlic, ginger, cilantro to the pan with the onions.
3. Next add ground coriander, chili powder, and turmeric and stir to coat. Add a little more oil at this point if the pan is looking dry.
4. Next add pureed tomatoes and chickpeas and remaining salt. Add the channa masala powder and stir well, until oil separates out.

   If the mixture looks a little too thick, add water. You’re looking for a semi-thick soup consistency at this point, as it will cook down into more of a stew.
5. Increase heat to medium high until it reaches a rolling simmer, then reduce heat to low or medium-low and maintain a simmer
6. When the chana masala is thickened and bubbly, taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt for saltiness, chili powder for heat, or a bit of coconut sugar for sweetness and to offset the heat of the chilies.
7. Remove from heat and cook in a pressure cooker or instant pot for 20min. 
   Stir to mix, then let cool slightly before serving. Fresh cilantro for excellent garnish.