This vibrant and nutritious black chana chat is a perfect blend of protein-rich black chickpeas and fresh, crunchy vegetables. It's an ideal healthy snack or light meal that's packed with fiber, vitamins, and refreshing flavors
Soak the black chana overnight or for 7-8 hours in plenty of water.
Wash the soaked chana thoroughly with at least 2 rinses until the water runs clear.
Add the washed chana to your pressure cooker along with 6 cups of water, bay leaf, salt, and hing.
Continue cooking on low flame for 15 minutes to ensure the chana becomes tender.
Turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally until all steam has escaped.
Open the lid
Drain the cooked chana using a strainer and let it cool completely to room temperature.
Assembling the Chat
Combine the cooled black chana with chopped cucumber, apple, onion, green chilies, and pomegranate seeds in a large mixing bowl.
Add fresh coriander leaves and lemon juice to the mixture.
Toss everything together gently but thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well distributed.
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or lemon juice if needed.
Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
Serving & Storage Notes
Serving Suggestions: This black chana chat is perfect as an evening snack, lunch box meal, or appetizer. Serve chilled for maximum refreshment.Storage: The cooked black chana can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Add fresh ingredients just before serving to maintain crispness.Substitutions:Replace apple with chopped tomatoes for a more savory versionAdd boiled potato cubes for a more filling chatSubstitute pomegranate with fresh mint leaves for a different flavor profileUse lime juice instead of lemon juice for variationPro Tips:Ensure the black chana is completely cooled before adding fresh ingredients to prevent wiltingFor extra flavor, sprinkle some chaat masala or black salt before servingThis recipe serves 2-3 people as a snack or light meal