FRIDAY Breakfast Boiled Chana (Black Chickpeas) Recipe-Quick and Easy Breakfast

In continuation of our previous discussion on the weekly breakfast menu, let’s dive into the details of what we have planned for each day along with some quick cooking tips.

Weekdays	Food Choices
Monday	Poha with chutney/sauce + Tea/Coffee/Milk/Juice/Chaach
Tuesday	Paneer sandwich + Tea/Coffee/Milk/Juice/Chaach
Wednesday	Upma + Tea/Coffee/Milk/Juice/Chaach
Thursday	Moongdal/Besan/Atta Cheela + Tea/Coffee/Milk/Juice/Chaach
Friday	Boiled chana/Moongdal and toasted bread + Tea/Coffee/Milk/Juice/Chaach
Saturday	Sevaiyyan/Saboodaana + Tea/Coffee/Milk/Juice/Chaach
Sunday (Holiday – Cheat day)	Bedmi/Poori and Aloo ki sabji + Tea/Coffee/Milk/Juice/Chaach

Healthy and Delicious Boiled Chana Breakfast Recipe for Friday

A nourishing breakfast to kickstart your Friday morning can be both easy to prepare and nutritious. One such simple yet delicious dish is Boiled Kala Chana (Black Chickpeas). It’s a great source of protein, fiber, and essential minerals, making it the perfect way to fuel your body and mind. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare this satisfying breakfast.

What You’ll Need:

• 1 cup Kala Chana (Black Chickpeas)
• Salt (as per taste)
• 1 teaspoon oil (preferably very less oil)
• ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 small onion (chopped)
• 1-2 green chilies (chopped)
• Toasted bread (optional, with butter)

Preparation (Night Before):

1. Soak the Kala Chana:
   • The night before (Thursday), rinse the Kala Chana thoroughly and soak them in water with a pinch of salt. Adding salt helps to soften the beans and also enhances their flavor.
   • Let it soak for about 8-10 hours overnight. This soaking step is crucial as it reduces cooking time the next day.

Pro Tip: Avoid using the soaking water the next day. While it might seem wasteful, this water contains some of the phytic acid and can cause gas-related issues if consumed. It’s best to discard this water the next morning.

Cooking (Friday Morning):

1. Decant and Rinse the Chana:
   • The next morning, decant the water from the soaked kala chana and rinse them thoroughly under fresh running water. Now, your chana is ready for boiling.
2. Boil the Kala Chana:
   • Add the rinsed Kala Chana to a pressure cooker or pot, and fill it with fresh drinking water. Make sure the water level is a couple of inches above the chana.
   • Bring it to a boil and cook it until tender. In a pressure cooker, it should take about 3-4 whistles. In a regular pot, it may take 30-40 minutes.

Tip: After boiling, strain the water. This water is nutritious and can be used in other curry preparations, or you can drink it with a pinch of lemon and salt. However, be cautious when drinking this, as some people may find it causes a loose stomach. Consume in moderation!

3. Sauté the Kala Chana:
   • In a pan, heat 1 teaspoon of oil. You don’t need much oil, just enough to lightly sauté the chana.
   • Once the oil is heated, add ½ teaspoon cumin seeds and let them crackle for a few seconds. This will release a wonderful aroma, and the cumin will add flavor to the dish.
4. Add the Boiled Kala Chana:
   • Now, add your boiled kala chana to the pan. Stir gently to combine with the cumin seeds. Add salt as per your taste, and sauté for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to come together.
5. Add Final Touches:
   • Remove the pan from the flame and add 1 teaspoon lemon juice for a tangy zing. You can also toss in chopped onion and green chilies for an extra crunch and heat.
   • Stir everything well, and your tasty boiled Kala Chana is ready to serve.

Serve with:

• Hot tea or coffee – A perfect drink pairing to complement the spicy-salty flavors of the chana.
• Toasted bread – A slice of toasted bread with a slight spread of butter can also be added for an extra comforting touch.

Why Choose Boiled Kala Chana for Breakfast?

• Rich in Protein and Fiber: Kala Chana is packed with protein, making it ideal for a high-energy start to your day. It also supports digestive health due to its high fiber content.
• Heart Healthy: The chickpeas are rich in potassium and magnesium, which can support heart health and help maintain blood pressure levels.
• Low in Fat: This dish is low in fat and can fit into a healthy eating plan for those looking to manage their weight.
• Boosts Digestion: The combination of cumin seeds and kala chana aids digestion and helps with bloating and gas.

Final Thoughts:

This boiled Kala Chana breakfast is not only nutritious but also super easy to prepare. It’s a great way to enjoy a wholesome meal on a Friday morning, providing you with sustained energy for the day. Whether you enjoy it with a cup of tea or pair it with some crispy toasted bread, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied and energized.