This is a very delicious dish and so easy to make. Can also be part of your ‘iftar’ meal if you are celebrating the holy month of Ramadhan. The ingredients are simple and readily available. Try it with naan, roti, rice or the Punjabi favourite – bhature.

YOU WILL NEED:

• 1 can chick peas, drained
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 small tomatoes diced thickly
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed ginger
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• Salt and red chilli powder to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
• chopped corriander
• lemon & tomato wedges for garnish
• chopped green chillies – optional

METHOD:

In a non stick pan put one tablespoon of cooking oil. When hot enough add cumin seeds. When they start sizzling add the onions and sautee until light golden brown. Add the tomatoes, tomato paste, ginger, garlic, corriander and mix well. Add the salt, red chilli, turmeric and enjoy inhaling the smell of this delicious masala which I love putting on a slice of bread and enjoying!

Add the can of drained chick peas, Allow to cook for 2 minutes and Voila. Your Punjabi Chollae are ready to be served. A drizzle of lemon juice and chunks of tomato sprinkled with salt and chilli are a great accompaniment to this dish. Add the green chillies for the extra zing. Only if you can handle it!

You can add some water to make a thick gravy if you are serving this dish with rice. Also if you’d rather use fresh chick peas you should. The can is for someone who is in a rush to get a meal ready in case you have impromptu visitors or are simply just starving!