Begin by prepping your spice mix: onions, garlic, ground black cardamoms, and star anise.
Generously cover the bottom of your cooking vessel with oil, and lightly fry the onions and garlic.
As they cook, add tomato paste, black cardamom, salt and star anise until you achieve a thick paste and a fragrance of the toasted spices.
Add the 1/2 cup of water to desired consistency and the chickpeas; simmer for 10-12 minutes.