Kala Chana Pulao is a flavorful and nutritious Indian rice dish made with black chickpeas (kala chana) and aromatic spices. The dish is a perfect blend of protein, fiber and complex carbohydrates, making it a wholesome meal. The Kala channa adds a rich, nutty flavor, while the spices infuse a warm, aromatic taste. This pulao is often served as a main course or paired with raita (yogurt side dish) or salad. It’s a popular choice for its simplicity, nutritional value and delicious taste. This one pot rice dish is gluten free and vegetarian.

Black chickpeas are a rich source of plant based protein, making them an excellent ingredient for growing kids, active sports players or people who need a big does of energy. If you are a bean lover, you will love this delicious, deeply flavored dish that is healthier and makes for a great meal anytime of the year.

They also have high fiber content and low glycemic index, making them suitable for people with diabetes or insulin resistance. It is said that they are high in antioxidants, boost immunity and promote heart health. Include brown chick peas to your salads, stir-fries, soups, curries and pulaos.

You can make this delicious chickpea pulao recipe for special occasions like kids parties, potlucks and buffets. Follow my step by step photo recipe to prepare Kala Channa Pulao. If you like this recipe share it, tweet it and pin it. Please do try and post your comments.

KALA CHANNA PULAO WITH STEP BY STEP PHOTO RECIPE

heat oil in a heavy bottomed pan, temper with cumin seeds, cloves, cinnamon stick, cardamom and bay leaf

add thinly sliced onion and slit green chillies

saute for 2-3 minutes or until the onion turns transparent

add ginger garlic paste and continue to saute well until the raw smell goes away

add finely chopped mint leaves, coriander leaves, red chilli powder, cumin powder and garam masala powder

mix well and continue sautéing for 2 minutes or until you will get nice aroma

soak Kala Chana overnight and pressure cook for 5-6 whistles, drain the excess water and then add boiled Kala Chana in the pan

add thick yogurt and salt

toss it around with the boiled Kala Chana masala

cover with lid and cook on low medium flame for3-4 minutes

Kala Chana is nicely coated with the spice mixture

now add 1 cup cooked basmati rice

give it a quick stir and cook on low medium flame for 5 minutes and then serve hot

HEALTH BENEFITS

Kala Chana, or black chickpeas, offer numerous health benefits, including improved digestion, blood sugar regulation and heart health. They are rich in protein, fiber, iron and other essential nutrients, making them a great addition to a balanced diet. You can easily incorporate them into your meals by adding them to salads, soups, curries or enjoying them as a snack after boiling or roasting.

HOW TO INCLUDE KALA CHANA IN YOUR DIET

Boiled: simply boil Kala Chana until tender and enjoy it as a snack, in salads or as a side dish.

Roasted: Roast Kala Chana with spices for a crunchy and healthy snack

In Soups and Stews: Add Kala Chana to soups and stews for added protein and fiber

In Salad: Toss boiled Kala Chana into your salads for a hearty and nutritious addition

In Curries: Kala Chana can be cooked into various flavorful curries, like the popular Kadala curry

As a Flour: Kala Chana flour can be used in baking or as a thickener for sauces and soups

Soaked: Soaking Kala Chana overnight and consuming it in the morning can aid digestion and provide a good dose of nutrients.