Chole Recipe – Authentic Punjabi Chole at Home

Chole is a popular North Indian dish made with chickpeas cooked in a spicy and flavorful gravy. This Punjabi-style chole recipe is rich, comforting, and perfect with rice, naan, or bhature.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 cups boiled chickpeas (chole)
• 2 onions, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 2 green chilies, chopped
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 tablespoon chole masala
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Once they crackle, add onions and sauté until golden brown.

Step 2: Add Ginger Garlic Paste

Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Cook for a minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Tomato Masala

Add tomato puree, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook until the oil separates from the masala.

Step 4: Add Chickpeas

Add the boiled chickpeas and mix well with the masala.

Step 5: Simmer the Curry

Pour in a little water and add chole masala and garam masala. Simmer for 10–15 minutes so the flavors blend well.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with bhature, naan, or steamed rice.

Tips for Perfect Chole

• Soak chickpeas overnight for better texture.
• Add a tea bag while boiling chickpeas for authentic dark color.
• Simmer the curry well for richer flavor.
• Mash a few chickpeas to make the gravy thicker.

Conclusion

This Punjabi chole recipe is spicy, hearty, and full of flavor. It is a perfect meal for weekends, family lunches, or festive occasions.