Chickpea stew

Chickpea Stew: A Healthy Delicacy for Chilly Winters

On cold winter days, nothing compares to a warm and comforting dish that warms our soul. Chickpea stew is one of those amazing recipes, rich in nutrients and delicious in taste, that is easy to prepare and provides a significant amount of protein and vitamins. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or to impress friends, this dish will surely please everyone.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes – 2 hours
Total time: Approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6 servings

Necessary ingredients:

- 400 g dried chickpeas (or 1 can of chickpeas for a quick version)
- 1 large onion
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for extra color)
- 3 carrots
- 3 tablespoons of quality olive oil
- 1 can of peeled and chopped tomatoes in tomato juice (400 g)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoons of roasted pepper paste (or bell pepper paste)
- 1 pinch of hot pepper paste (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vegetable concentrate
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 piece of boiled bacon (approximately 700 g)
- Fresh parsley and oregano for garnish

Preparing the Chickpeas:
Start by hydrating the chickpeas. Place them in a large bowl with plenty of water and let them soak overnight. This is a crucial step as the chickpeas will absorb the water and double in volume, making them easier to cook. If you’re in a hurry, canned chickpeas are an excellent alternative, but make sure to rinse them well to remove excess salt.

Step 1: Cooking the Vegetables:
The next morning, wash the chickpeas in several waters to clean them. Then, in a large pot, heat the 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and let it sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the bell pepper cut into strips and the carrot cut into rounds. By continuing to sauté the vegetables, you will allow the flavors to develop, adding a delicious note to the stew.

Step 2: Cooking the Chickpeas:
Once the vegetables have softened, add the washed chickpeas to the pot. Pour enough water (or chicken broth for extra flavor) to completely cover the chickpeas. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the chickpeas are tender but not mushy. It’s important to periodically check the water level and add warm water if necessary.

Step 3: Preparing the Bacon:
Meanwhile, prepare the bacon. Cut it into slices and fry it in a hot pan with 1 tablespoon of olive oil until it becomes crispy and golden. This step will add a pleasant texture and savory flavor to the stew.

Step 4: Assembling the Stew:
After the chickpeas are cooked, add salt, pepper, and the roasted pepper paste, along with a pinch of hot pepper paste if you want to add a bit of heat. Mix the ingredients well to combine. Meanwhile, add the vegetable concentrate and dried thyme. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes for the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Finishing the Dish:
Dissolve the cornstarch in 2-3 tablespoons of cold water and gradually add it to the chickpea stew, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens slightly. Finally, add the fried bacon, parsley, and fresh oregano for an extra touch of freshness.

Serving:
Chickpea stew is served hot, accompanied by a cabbage salad with tomatoes for a contrast of textures and flavors. On colder days, a serving of pickles alongside will perfectly complement this dish.

Practical Tips:
- If you want a vegetarian version, leave out the bacon. The chickpea stew remains delicious and hearty without meat.
- Chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making them ideal for vegans and vegetarians. They also contain B vitamins, essential minerals such as iron, calcium, and magnesium.
- You can experiment with different herbs or vegetables, adding zucchini, eggplant, or even spinach to diversify the recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use pre-cooked canned chickpeas?
Yes, make sure to rinse them well to remove excess salt.
2. How long can I keep chickpea stew in the fridge?
It can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container.
3. What drinks pair well with chickpea stew?
A dry white wine or a pale beer pairs perfectly with the dish's flavors.

This chickpea stew is not just a simple and quick recipe but also an excellent way to enjoy a healthy and nourishing meal on chilly winter days. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 400 g chickpeas, 1 large onion, 1 bell pepper, 3 carrots, 3 tablespoons olive oil, 1 can peeled and chopped tomatoes in tomato juice, salt, pepper, 2 teaspoons pepper paste, a pinch of hot pepper paste, 1 teaspoon vegetable concentrate, fresh parsley and oregano, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon food starch, 1 piece boiled pork belly (approx. 700 grams)

 Tags:  naut chickpea dish