Naut with vegetables and meat

Chickpeas with vegetables and meat: a delicious and nutritious recipe

Preparing a dish with chickpeas and vegetables is a flavorful and healthy experience. Chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based proteins, fiber, and micronutrients, and the combination with vegetables and meat makes this dish not only nourishing but also extremely tasty. This chickpea recipe with vegetables and meat will quickly become one of your favorites, whether you prepare it for a special dinner or a family meal.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour – 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients
- 300 g dried chickpeas
- 4 boneless chicken thighs (or another meat of your choice)
- 1 medium onion
- 1 parsley root
- 1 piece of celery (approximately 100 g)
- 1 cup of tomato juice
- Thyme (to taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley

Nutritional information
Chickpeas are rich in proteins, fiber, and B vitamins. They are an excellent choice for a balanced meal, providing you with the energy you need throughout the day. Each serving contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the type of meat used. This recipe can easily be adapted to be vegetarian by omitting the meat.

Step by step to prepare chickpeas with vegetables and meat

1. Preparing the chickpeas: Start by washing the chickpeas in cold water. Then, place them in a bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak overnight. This will reduce the cooking time and make the chickpeas more digestible.

2. Boiling the meat: The next day, drain the chickpeas and rinse them again. Then, in a separate pot, add the chicken thighs and cover them with water. Boil for 10 minutes, adding a little salt. This step will help achieve tender and juicy meat.

3. Preparing the vegetables: While the meat is boiling, prepare the vegetables. Finely chop the onion and grate the parsley root and celery. These vegetables will add a rich flavor and delicious aroma to your dish.

4. Cooking the dish: In a large pot, add the drained chickpeas, boiled chicken thighs, chopped onion, and grated vegetables. Pour in the tomato juice and enough water to cover everything. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 1 hour - 1 hour and 30 minutes. The chickpeas should be tender, and the meat should easily come off the bone.

5. Seasoning: When the dish is almost ready, taste and adjust with salt, pepper, and thyme. The thyme will add an aromatic note and a special flavor.

6. Finishing the dish: When everything is cooked, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness and color.

Serving suggestions
Chickpeas with vegetables and meat are served warm, alongside a fresh green salad or a portion of basmati rice to complete the meal. A slice of lemon on the side can add a splash of acidity that will enhance the flavors of the dish.

Variations and tips
- Vegetarian option: Omit the meat and add more vegetables, like carrots or zucchini. You can also use tofu or tempeh to add plant-based proteins.
- Alternative spices: Instead of thyme, you can experiment with sweet paprika, turmeric, or even curry to give the dish an exotic note.
- Canned chickpeas: If you're in a hurry, you can use canned chickpeas, which significantly reduces the cooking time. Make sure to rinse them well before use.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use another type of meat? Yes, you can use beef or pork, adjusting the cooking time according to the type of meat used.
2. What can I do with leftovers? The dish keeps well in the refrigerator and can be reheated the next day. It's even tastier after the flavors have had time to meld.
3. Can it be frozen? Yes, this dish freezes very well. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing it in airtight containers.

A personal note
This chickpea recipe with vegetables and meat reminds me of family meals from my childhood when we all gathered around the table to enjoy dishes cooked with love. It is a versatile recipe that can be adapted according to the season and individual preferences. I encourage you to personalize it and bring a part of your story to each plate.

Try this simple and delicious chickpea recipe with vegetables and meat and enjoy a comforting and healthy meal! Bon appétit!