Chana Masala

Directions

1. 1
   Film the olive oil in the bottom of a large saucepan (preferably non-stick, original recipe called for a dutch oven), and place pan over medium-low heat.
2. 2
   Add the garlic, while stirring, and the cumin seeds.
3. 3
   Add more oil if necessary.
4. 4
   Stir until fragrant and brown (the cumin seeds may pop).
5. 5
   Add the ground coriander, ginger, garam masala, and cardamom pods, stirring constantly until fragrant and toasty (probably about 30 seconds).
6. 6
   Add 1/4 cup water, and stir/scrape the bottom of the pan to keep the browned bits from burning to the bottom.
7. 7
   Cook until the water has evaporated away completely.
8. 8
   Add the canned tomatoes/juice from canned tomatoes, and salt (if desired).
9. 9
   Stir well to mix.
10. 10
    Raise the heat to medium/medium-high to bring to a boil.
11. 11
    Once boiling, reduce heat to low, add cilantro and cayenne, and simmer the sauce gently, stirring occasionally, until it reduces and begins to thicken a bit.
12. 12
    Taste and adjust seasonings as necessary.
13. 13
    Add chickpeas, stirring well, and cook over low heat for about five minutes.
14. 14
    Add 2 tablespoons water, and cook for another five minutes.
15. 15
    Add another 2 tablespoons water, and cook until entirely absorbed (a few more minutes).
16. 16
    This helps concentrate the flavors in the sauce and makes the chickpeas more tender.
17. 17
    Taste, and adjust seasonings as desired.
18. 18
    Stir in yogurt and serve over brown rice (can omit the rice if desired).