How to Make Kala Chana Chaat (Black Chickpeas Salad)
Soaking Black Chickpeas
Wash and soak black chickpeas overnight or for at least 6 hours in 3 cups of water. The chickpeas will double in size when they are soaked.
Cook Black Chickpeas
In Traditional Stovetop Pressure Cooker: Pressure cook the rinsed and soaked black chickpeas, and salt with 2.5 cups water for 8 whistles on medium-low heat. Let the pressure release naturally. Instant Pot Pressure Cooker: I generally cook the black chickpeas in an Instant Pot as it is very easy, and cooks perfectly every time. Pressure cook rinsed and soaked black chickpeas, and salt with 2.5 cups water on High Pressure for 30 minutes on BEAN/CHILI mode and let the pressure release naturally. Here is the detailed recipe for How to cook black chickpeas in Instant Pot.
Note: 1 cup of dried black chickpeas yields 2.5 cups of boiled black chickpeas.
Assembling the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, add all the salad ingredients, like boiled kala chana (brown chickpeas), veggies, herbs, spices, and lemon juice. Toss gently to combine. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Variations
Veggies: You may add boiled potato, boiled sweet potatoes, bell peppers, avocados, raw mango, and more. Chutney: You may also add a little mint coriander chutney and sweet tamarind chutney for a kick. Other Beans: You can make this chaat/salad with canned or boiled white chickpeas (garbanzo beans), green chickpeas, or kidney beans (rajma). Sprouted Kala Chana Chaat: You can steam or boil the black chickpeas sprouts till they are almost cooked and use them in the recipe for a healthier version. Spice Level: Adjust the spice level to your taste after you mix the chaat ingredients. Increase or decrease the spices according to your preference.
If you like this recipe, then check more Indian Chaat Recipes I also like to serve it as a side dish, alongside soup or sandwiches. Kala chana chaat is typically served as a snack or appetizer and can be garnished with chopped fresh cilantro and/or green chilies.
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