Tata Sampann Unpolished Kala Chana 1 kg Review

Our review

Tata Sampann Unpolished Kala Chana is a 1 kg pack of whole black chickpeas from Tata Consumer Products. The only ingredient listed is unpolished kala chana, and the brand says the grains are not artificially polished with water, oil or leather.

What it is

Kala chana is a small, dark brown chickpea that is a regular in Indian kitchens. The brand says its grains go through a 5-step quality process, and listings describe them as uniform in size, fresh and unbroken, and easy to clean with few stones or foreign particles.

How it is commonly used

• Curries: kala chana masala, ghugni and Kerala-style kadala curry.
• Sprouts and salads: soaked overnight and sprouted, or boiled for chaat.
• Festival dishes: a classic part of Ashtami and Navratri prasad.
• Snacks: boiled and tossed with onion, lemon and spices.

Cooking tip

Soak the chickpeas for 8 to 10 hours or overnight, then pressure cook them until soft. Soaking makes them cook faster and easier to digest. Add salt only after they are cooked or near the end.

What to check before you buy

Chickpeas are a pulse, so they need soaking and some cooking time. The brand says they are rich in protein and fibre, as pulses generally are. Please check the pack’s best-before date, and note that this listing is a 1 kg pouch. If you have a legume allergy or a digestive condition, please speak to your doctor about adding chickpeas to your meals.

Storage

Store the chickpeas in an airtight container in a cool, dry place after opening, as the brand advises.

Our take

A familiar, widely available kala chana from a large brand, in a convenient 1 kg pack for regular home cooking. We have not tested every batch, so check the latest price and customer reviews on Amazon before you buy.

This overview is based on the brand’s published product information and retailer pages. Details can change, so always read the label on your pack.