This Chickpea and Vegetable Bake is a wholesome, protein-packed dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Featuring tender chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and a creamy yogurt sauce, it’s a meal that’s both comforting and nutritious.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
Ingredients
- Chickpeas: 200 grams
- Onion: 1, chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Ginger: Minced, to taste
- Pepper: 1, chopped
- Tomatoes: 3, peeled and chopped
- Carrot: 1, chopped
- Mushrooms: 7, sliced
- Spring Onions: Chopped
- Parsley: Chopped
- Eggs: 3
- Salt: To taste
- Ground Pepper: To taste
- Turmeric: To taste
- Paprika: To taste
- Butter: Small amount
- Vegetable Oil: For sautéing
- Olive Oil: For greasing
- Cheese: 150 grams, shredded
- Yogurt: 250 grams
- Dill: Chopped
- Lemon Juice: From ½ lemon
Instructions
- Cook Chickpeas:
- Cook 200 grams of chickpeas for 45 minutes until tender. (If using canned chickpeas, simply drain and rinse them).
- Sauté Aromatics:
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, ginger, and chopped pepper. Cook until soft and fragrant.
- Prepare Tomatoes:
- Pour boiling water over tomatoes to peel them, then chop. Add to the pan and cook until they break down.
- Chop Chickpeas:
- Chop half of the cooked chickpeas and add them to the pan. Stir to combine.
- Seasoning:
- Season the mixture with salt, ground pepper, and turmeric. Add a small amount of butter and cook for 15 minutes.
- Cook Chickpeas:
- Add the remaining whole chickpeas to the pan. Continue cooking over medium heat for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Add Vegetables:
- Add chopped carrot, sliced mushrooms, and chopped spring onions to the pan. Cook for an additional 10 minutes.
- Add Eggs:
- Beat 3 eggs and add to the pan. Season with salt, ground pepper, and paprika. Stir well to combine.
- Finish with Parsley:
- Add chopped parsley and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Bake:
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and bake for 30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Make Yogurt Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix 250 grams of yogurt with chopped dill, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
- Serve:
- Serve the chickpea and vegetable bake hot, accompanied by the yogurt sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh green salad.
- Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Enjoy with a glass of white wine.
Cooking Tips
- Soak chickpeas overnight for quicker cooking.
- Use fresh herbs for more vibrant flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- Add chopped chili or hot sauce for extra spice.
Nutritional Benefits
- Chickpeas: Rich in protein and fiber, supports digestion and muscle health.
- Vegetables: Provide essential vitamins and minerals.
- Eggs: High-quality protein and healthy fats.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: Ensure ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- Vegan: Omit eggs and cheese; use plant-based alternatives.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A hearty, nutritious meal that’s easy to make.
- Versatile and adaptable to what you have on hand.
- Perfect for meal prepping and enjoying leftovers.
- Packed with flavors and textures.
Conclusion
This Chickpea and Vegetable Bake is a nutritious and versatile dish perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s sure to become a household favorite. Enjoy this delightful meal and share your experience! Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried ones?
- Yes, you can use canned chickpeas to save time. Just drain and rinse them before adding to the recipe.
- Can I prepare this dish in advance?
- Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance and refrigerate it. Reheat it in the oven before serving.
- Can I freeze the Chickpea and Vegetable Bake?
- Yes, this dish freezes well. Store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- What can I substitute for yogurt in the sauce?
- You can use sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a dairy-free yogurt alternative if needed.
- Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
- To make it vegan, omit the eggs and cheese, and use a plant-based yogurt and butter.
- How can I make the dish spicier?
- Add chopped chili peppers, a dash of hot sauce, or extra paprika to increase the heat.
- What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
- A mild cheese like mozzarella or cheddar works well, but you can use any shredded cheese you prefer.
- Can I add other vegetables to the bake?
- Yes, you can add vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
- What should I serve alongside this dish?
- A fresh green salad, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables would pair nicely with the bake.
- How can I tell when the bake is done?
- The bake is ready when the cheese on top is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly golden. You can also insert a toothpick to check if the center is set.