Chana masala, also known as channay, chole masala, chhole masala, chole or chholay, is a dish originating from the Indian subcontinent. The main ingredient is a variety of chickpea called chana or kala chana which are approximately half the diameter of typical chickpeas with a stronger flavour and firmer texture even after being cooked.
Chole is the name for the larger and lighter coloured chickpea commonly found in the West. These are known as kabuli chana (काबुली चना) in Hindi. Chana masala is fairly dry and spicy with a sour citrus note (the flavor usually comes from coriander and onion). Chana are usually replaced by chole in most restaurants,(clarification needed) and both versions are widely sold as snack food and street food in the Indian subcontinent.