Indian street food chaat served in a bowl

Chana Chaat Recipe (Pakistani Chickpea Salad)

Chana chaat is a tangy, spicy chickpea salad with potatoes, onion, tomato, green chilies and lemon juice. It is a staple of Ramadan iftar and street food stalls in Pakistan.

It takes 15 minutes with canned chickpeas and pre-boiled potatoes, and needs no other cooking.

Why you will like this version

  • Ready in 15 minutes.
  • Protein-rich and vegan.
  • Perfect for iftar and parties.

What is chana chaat?

Chaat means a savory snack. Chana chaat mixes boiled chickpeas with potato, fresh vegetables, spices and tangy lemon or tamarind.

Ingredients that matter

  • Chickpeas: canned or boiled, drained well.
  • Chaat masala: the key seasoning.
  • Lemon juice and tamarind chutney: for the tang.

Tips for the best chaat

  • Dry the chickpeas well so the dressing sticks.
  • Add the lemon juice just before serving.
  • Toss gently to keep the potatoes in pieces.

Chana Chaat Recipe

Chana Chaat

Tangy chickpea salad with potatoes, onion, tomato and chaat masala.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups boiled chickpeas canned is fine, drained
  • 2 boiled potatoes boiled ahead, peeled and cubed
  • 1 onion finely chopped
  • 1 tomato finely chopped
  • 2 green chilies finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh coriander chopped
  • 1 tsp chaat masala
  • 1/2 tsp cumin powder roasted
  • 1/2 tsp red chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt adjust to taste
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp tamarind chutney optional

Method
 

  1. Add the chickpeas, potatoes, onion, tomato, green chilies and coriander to a large bowl.
  2. Add the chaat masala, cumin powder, chili powder and salt.
  3. Toss gently to combine.
  4. Add the lemon juice and tamarind chutney and toss again. Serve right away.

Notes

Serve immediately.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use canned chickpeas?

Yes. Rinse and drain them well.

How long does it keep?

Best eaten fresh; it keeps for a day in the fridge.

Can I make it spicier?

Add more green chilies or red chili powder.

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