Recipe: Amritsari Chole (Punjabi Chickpea Curry)

Amritsari Chole (Punjabi Chickpea Curry)

Origin: Punjab, India
Category: Main Course | Vegan | Gluten-Free
Cooking Time: 45–60 minutes
Serves: 4

Authentic Amritsari Chole – A spicy chickpea curry from Punjab.

Amritsari Chole is a rich, flavorful chickpea curry from the heart of Punjab. Famous for its deep aroma and bold spices, this dish pairs beautifully with Bhature, Jeera Rice, or Kulcha. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or festive gatherings!

🧂 Ingredients

For Boiling Chickpeas

• 1½ cups chickpeas (soaked overnight)
• 1 black tea bag (optional, for color)
• 1 tsp salt
• 3 cups water

For the Masala

• 2 tbsp oil or ghee
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium tomatoes, pureed
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• 2 green chilies, slit
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp amchur (or lemon juice)
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

🍳 Instructions

1. Boil Chickpeas: Drain soaked chickpeas, add water, salt, and tea bag. Pressure cook 6–7 whistles until soft. Discard tea bag.
2. Prepare Masala: Heat oil, add cumin seeds and bay leaf. Sauté onions till golden, then add ginger-garlic paste.
3. Add Tomatoes & Spices: Stir in tomato puree, salt, and all spices except garam masala. Cook until oil separates.
4. Add Chickpeas: Mix boiled chickpeas with some stock. Mash a few for a thicker gravy.
5. Simmer: Cook 15 mins on low flame. Add garam masala and lemon juice.
6. Garnish: Serve hot with Bhature, Rice, or Kulcha.

💡 Tips & Serving Suggestions

For authentic Punjabi flavor, serve with pickled onions, green chili, and lemon wedges. Use the tea bag trick for that classic dark color.

✨ Fun Fact

The name “Amritsari” comes from Amritsar, Punjab’s food capital, where dhabas serve this dish with fluffy bhature and creamy lassi!

Recipe by Love Indian Bites — Explore global cooking recipes and make them at home, all in one place.