Chickpea puree

Chickpea Puree with Sesame - A Creamy Delicacy

Total time: 40 minutes
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Discover a recipe that blends tradition with innovation: chickpea puree, a delicious and healthy choice for any meal. This dish is not just a simple paste; it is an explosion of flavors, textures, and nutrients, perfect to be served as an appetizer, spread, or as part of a main course. Chickpea puree is popular in many cultures, with deep roots in gastronomy, where chickpeas have been cultivated and appreciated for centuries for their nutritional properties.

Ingredients:

- 500 g cooked chickpeas (can be canned)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 50 g sesame seeds
- 8-10 tablespoons sweet milk
- 10 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (or saffron)
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- A pinch of chili
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- Juice from 1/2 lemon
- A pinch of white pepper
- 2 teaspoons sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Preparation Steps:

1. Preparing the Chickpeas: If using canned chickpeas, drain and rinse them under cold water to remove excess salt and preservatives. If you prefer to cook chickpeas from scratch, soak them for at least 8 hours, then boil until soft.

2. Peeling the Chickpeas: This is an optional step, but recommended for a smoother puree. Use a sieve to wash the chickpeas and then peel each one. This may require some patience, but the result will be a creamier puree.

3. Toasting the Sesame: In a non-stick pan, toast the 50 g of sesame seeds over medium heat, stirring constantly to avoid burning. The goal is to release the rich flavors of the seeds. Once golden and fragrant, transfer them to a plate to cool.

4. Making the Sesame Paste: In a blender container, add the toasted sesame, salt, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste, similar to tahini. This will add an intense flavor to the dish.

5. Transforming the Chickpeas into Puree: In a large bowl, place the peeled chickpeas and mash them with a fork or potato masher. Add the sesame paste, lemon juice, milk (add gradually, adjusting the consistency), olive oil, and the mentioned spices. Use an immersion blender to achieve a fine, consistent mix, but not too liquid.

6. Final Taste: Once you have the desired puree, taste and adjust with salt, pepper, or lemon juice as preferred. Finally, add the 2 teaspoons of raw sesame and gently mix with a spoon.

7. Serving: Transfer the puree to a clean bowl and garnish as desired. It can be served plain, as a spread, alongside olives, onion rings, fresh peppers, or even topped with fried eggs for a hearty appetizer.

Serving Suggestions: This chickpea puree is versatile. You can enjoy it with warm flatbreads, crunchy baguettes, or fresh vegetables. You can also pair it with a refreshing salad or a warm soup for a complete meal. It pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine or mint tea.

Nutritional Benefits: Chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are filling, helping to maintain a balanced diet. Olive oil adds healthy fats, while sesame is rich in calcium and antioxidants.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned? Yes, make sure to soak and boil them well before use.
- Can I replace olive oil? You can use avocado or coconut oil, but the taste will be different.
- What can I do if the puree is too thick? Gradually add more milk or olive oil until you reach the desired texture.

Possible Variations: Experiment with different spices or fresh herbs, such as parsley or mint, to add fresh notes. You can also add roasted red peppers for an extra sweetness and color.

This chickpea puree with sesame is not just a delicious dish, but also a healthy and filling option. With each bite, you will discover a perfect combination of flavors and textures, ideal for impressing family and friends. Enjoy it with joy!