Chickpea Stew

Chickpeas, a legume rich in protein and nutrients, are the main ingredient of this delicious recipe. Start by soaking the chickpeas the night before, so they can rehydrate and become easier to cook. You can choose to leave them in cold water or even at room temperature, but make sure they are well covered. The next day, rinse them under a stream of cold water and place them in a pot with fresh water to boil. It is important to change the first two waters to eliminate any unwanted substances and improve digestion.

While the chickpeas are boiling, take care of the vegetables. Choose fresh vegetables such as carrots, peppers, onions, and zucchini. Cut them into cubes or slices, as preferred. In a large skillet or a deep pot, add a little olive oil and a splash of water. Add the chopped vegetables and let them sauté over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This process will take about 10 minutes, during which the vegetables will release their flavors and become tender.

After the vegetables have softened, add the tomato paste, which will bring an extra flavor and color to the dish. By integrating the paste with the vegetables, also add a bit of the water in which the chickpeas boiled. This will provide a subtle flavor and enrich the consistency of the sauce. Let everything simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes, so the flavors can combine.

Once the chickpeas are well cooked, drain them and add them to the pot with the vegetables. Gently stir to combine the ingredients, being careful not to crush the chickpeas. Let everything simmer together for another quarter of an hour, so that each ingredient can reveal its flavor. Finally, season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. At the end, for an extra touch of freshness and flavor, add finely chopped herbs, such as parsley or dill. This step will transform the dish, bringing not only a pleasant appearance but also a fresh and aromatic taste. Serve the dish warm, alongside a portion of rice or fresh bread, for a complete and comforting meal.