Olivia Carter
Black chana, also known as black chickpeas or Bengal gram, is a versatile legume that can be used in a variety of dishes. Whether you want to make a hearty stew, a spicy curry, or a delicious salad, boiling black chana is the first step to unlocking its nutty flavor and creamy texture.
If you’re short on time and don’t have the luxury of soaking the black chana overnight, you can still achieve tender and well-cooked chickpeas by using a pressure cooker. The pressure cooker method allows you to cook the chana quickly and efficiently, without compromising on taste or texture.
To boil black chana in a pressure cooker without soaking, start by rinsing the chickpeas under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, add the rinsed chana to the pressure cooker along with enough water to fully submerge the legumes. For extra flavor, you can also add some whole spices like bay leaves, cinnamon sticks, or cardamom pods.
Next, cover the pressure cooker with its lid and ensure that it is properly sealed. Place the pressure cooker on the stove over medium heat and allow it to come to full pressure. Once the pressure is reached, reduce the heat to low and let the chana cook for about 20-25 minutes.
How to Boil Black Chana
Boiling black chana is a simple and nutritious way to add protein and fiber to your meals. It can be used in a variety of dishes, such as salads, curries, and soups. In this guide, we will show you how to boil black chana using a pressure cooker without soaking. This method allows for faster cooking and can be a time-saver, especially if you forget to soak the chana overnight.
Ingredients:
| 1 cup black chana |
| 4 cups water |
| 1 teaspoon salt (optional) |
Instructions:
- Start by rinsing the black chana under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Place the rinsed chana in a pressure cooker.
- Add water to the pressure cooker. The water should be about 4 times the volume of the chana.
- If desired, add salt to the pressure cooker. This step is optional, but it can help enhance the flavor of the chana.
- Close the lid of the pressure cooker and turn on the heat to high.
- Once the pressure cooker comes to full pressure, reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 20-25 minutes.
- After 20-25 minutes, turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally.
- Once the pressure is fully released, open the lid of the pressure cooker.
- Your black chana is now ready to be used in your favorite recipes!
Boiled black chana can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It can be added to salads, mixed with spices for a delicious snack, or used as a base for curries and stews. Enjoy!
In Pressure Cooker Without Soaking
Boiling black chana in a pressure cooker without soaking is a simple and convenient method to cook this nutritious legume. Whether you forgot to soak the chana overnight or simply don’t have the time for it, this method allows you to still enjoy a delicious and hearty dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup black chana
- 3 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
Instructions:
Step 1: Rinse the black chana under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities.
Step 2: In a pressure cooker, add the rinsed black chana, water, salt, cumin powder, turmeric powder, and red chili powder.
Step 3: Close the pressure cooker lid and make sure it is properly sealed.
Step 4: Place the pressure cooker on the stove over medium heat.
Step 5: Allow the pressure to build inside the cooker. Once you start hearing a hissing sound, reduce the heat to low and cook for 20 minutes.
Step 6: After 20 minutes, turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally. Do not attempt to open the cooker while there is still pressure inside.
Step 7: Once the pressure has released, open the cooker and check the black chana for tenderness. It should be soft and cooked through.
Step 8: If the chana is not yet tender, you can pressure cook it for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Note: Cooking times may vary depending on the quality and freshness of the black chana.
Step 9: Drain any excess water from the cooked black chana and it is now ready to be used in your desired recipe.
Following this method, you can quickly and easily boil black chana in a pressure cooker without the need for soaking. Enjoy the delicious and nutritious chana in your favourite dishes!
Quick and Easy Method
To boil black chana in a pressure cooker without soaking it, follow these simple steps:
- Measure the desired amount of black chana and rinse them under cold running water to remove any dirt or impurities.
- Add the rinsed chana to the pressure cooker along with enough water to cover them completely.
- Close the lid of the pressure cooker and place it on the stove over medium-high heat.
- Allow the pressure cooker to build pressure and cook the chana for about 20-25 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally.
- Once the pressure has released, open the lid and check the doneness of the chana by pressing them between your fingers. They should be soft and easily mashable.
- If the chana are still slightly undercooked, close the lid and cook for a few more minutes.
- Once the chana are cooked to your desired texture, drain any excess water and use them as required in your recipe.
This quick and easy method allows you to boil black chana in a pressure cooker without the need for soaking, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to boil black chana in a pressure cooker without soaking:
Step 1: Rinse the Black Chana
Take the desired amount of black chana and rinse them thoroughly under running water to remove any impurities.
Step 2: Add Water and Black Chana to the Pressure Cooker
Transfer the rinsed chana to the pressure cooker and add enough water to cover the chana. The water level should be at least an inch above the chana.
Step 3: Add Salt and Spices
Add salt and any desired spices or seasonings to the pressure cooker. You can add spices like turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin powder, or garam masala for additional flavor. The amount of spices can be adjusted according to your taste preferences.
Step 4: Close the Pressure Cooker
Close the lid of the pressure cooker securely. Make sure it is properly sealed to prevent any steam from escaping.
Step 5: Cook on High Pressure
Place the pressure cooker on the stove over high heat. Once the steam starts to release from the whistle or vent pipe, lower the heat to medium and cook for around 15-20 minutes. Cooking time may vary depending on the quality and age of the black chana.
Step 6: Release Pressure
After the cooking time is complete, carefully release the pressure from the pressure cooker by either using the natural release method or the quick release method.
Step 7: Check for Doneness
Open the pressure cooker and check if the black chana is cooked to your desired tenderness. If not, you can cook them for a few more minutes.
Step 8: Drain and Serve
Once the black chana is cooked, carefully drain the excess water and transfer them to a serving bowl. Serve hot as a side dish or as a main course with rice or roti.
Enjoy your boiled black chana!
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Black Chana
Boiling black chana in a pressure cooker without soaking can yield delicious results, but it’s important to follow a few key tips to ensure perfect doneness and flavor. Here are some tips to help you achieve perfectly cooked black chana:
| # | Tip |
|---|---|
| 1 | Use a good quality pressure cooker. A sturdy and reliable pressure cooker will help in even cooking and prevent any accidents. |
| 2 | Rinse the black chana thoroughly before cooking. This helps remove any dirt or dust particles that may be present. |
| 3 | Add enough water to the pressure cooker. The chana should be completely submerged in water. |
| 4 | Add some salt to the water. This enhances the flavor of the chana while it cooks. |
| 5 | Cook the black chana on medium heat. Cooking on high heat may lead to uneven cooking or burnt chana at the bottom. |
| 6 | Let the pressure release naturally. This helps in maintaining the texture of the black chana. |
| 7 | Check the doneness of the chana by pressing it between your fingers. It should be soft and easily mashable. |
| 8 | If the chana is not cooked to your desired consistency, cook it for a few more minutes in the pressure cooker or add hot water if needed. |
| 9 | Once the black chana is cooked, drain off any excess water. You can use this water for making gravies or soups. |
| 10 | Serve the perfectly cooked black chana as a side dish or use it as an ingredient in your favorite recipes. |
By following these tips, you’ll be able to cook black chana in a pressure cooker without soaking, and enjoy a flavorful and nutritious dish!
Key Suggestions for Success
Boiling black chana in a pressure cooker without soaking can be a convenient and time-saving method. Here are some key suggestions to ensure success:
- Select fresh black chana: Choose good quality black chana that is clean, free from debris, and unspoiled. Fresh chana will result in better taste and texture.
- Rinse thoroughly: Before boiling, rinse the black chana in cold water to remove any dirt or impurities.
- Use enough water: Add enough water to completely submerge the black chana. This will help in the cooking process and prevent the chana from drying out.
- Adjust cooking time: Without soaking, the cooking time may be longer than usual. Follow the instructions provided by your pressure cooker and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Season properly: Add salt and any other desired spices or seasonings to enhance the flavor of the black chana.
- Keep a watchful eye: While boiling, keep an eye on the pressure cooker to ensure that it doesn’t run out of water and that the chana is not overcooked or burnt.
- Allow pressure to release naturally: After boiling, let the pressure cooker release pressure naturally before opening it. This will allow for proper cooking and avoid any accidents.
- Test for doneness: Check the black chana for doneness by pressing it between your fingers. It should be tender and easily mashed when fully cooked.
By following these key suggestions, you can successfully boil black chana in a pressure cooker without soaking and enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal. Happy cooking!
FAQ
What is black chana?
Black chana, also known as black chickpeas or kala chana, is a type of legume commonly used in Indian cooking. It is rich in protein, fiber, and various nutrients.
Can black chana be boiled without soaking?
Yes, black chana can be boiled without soaking. By using a pressure cooker, you can cook the chana directly without the need for pre-soaking. This saves time and allows for a quicker cooking process.
How long does it take to boil black chana in a pressure cooker without soaking?
Boiling black chana in a pressure cooker without soaking usually takes around 20-25 minutes. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the pressure cooker and the quantity of chana being cooked. It’s important to follow the instructions of your specific pressure cooker model for best results.
