Method
Heat the oil and cook the onion until deeply golden, 10–12 minutes. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, and cayenne for 1 minute.
Add the tomatoes and cook until thick and the oil begins to separate at the edges.
Add chickpeas and water. Simmer for 20 minutes, lightly crushing some chickpeas to thicken the sauce.
Finish with lemon juice and cilantro and adjust salt.
Notes
The flavor deepens after resting; loosen with water when reheating.
Related recipes and techniques
These are extensions, technique comparisons, or serving relationships; the complete recipe above remains usable as written.
- Serve with Skillet Garlic Naan for scooping the sauce.
- Pair with Classic Rice Pilaf for a complete plate.