Marry Me Chickpeas

Marry Me Chickpeas is a delicious, nutritious, and quick-to-make vegetarian dish that pairs perfectly with rice or crusty bread. With a creamy, tangy sun-dried tomato and coconut sauce, this dish is both comforting and packed with plant-based protein. It’s ready in just 25 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Essential Ingredients

To make this flavorful dish, you will need:

• 1 tablespoon grapeseed oil or olive oil (plus more if needed)
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 shallot, chopped
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or more to taste)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/3 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes in oil
• 2 (15-ounce) cans chickpeas
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 cup coconut milk

Preparation Steps

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add shallots and garlic, and cook until fragrant (1-2 minutes).
2. Toast Spices: Add smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and red pepper flakes. Stir and cook for 1 minute to enhance the flavors.
3. Add Base Ingredients: Stir in tomato paste, sun-dried tomatoes, and chickpeas until the chickpeas are fully coated with the sauce.
4. Simmer: Pour in vegetable broth and lemon juice, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes. Add more broth if needed.
5. Finish with Coconut Milk: Stir in coconut milk and remove from heat. Let the flavors meld for a minute before serving.

Health Benefits

Marry Me Chickpeas is packed with plant-based nutrients:

• High in Protein & Fiber: Chickpeas provide a powerful combination of 22g of protein and 18g of fiber per serving, promoting digestion and satiety.
• Heart-Healthy Fats: Coconut milk adds a creamy texture while providing medium-chain fatty acids that support heart health.
• Rich in Vitamins & Minerals: This dish contains iron, potassium, and vitamin C, essential for energy, immune function, and muscle health.
• Anti-Inflammatory Benefits: Ingredients like smoked paprika, oregano, and garlic help combat inflammation and boost metabolism.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over steamed rice, quinoa, or couscous for a hearty meal.
• Pair with crusty bread or naan to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an extra touch of freshness.
• Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a squeeze of lime juice to balance the flavors.
• Enjoy as a filling for wraps or tacos for a fun, handheld meal.

Creative Variations

Want to customize your Marry Me Chickpeas? Try these ideas:

• Make it spicier: Increase the red pepper flakes or add fresh chili peppers.
• Add more veggies: Stir in spinach, kale, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
• Boost the protein: Mix in tofu or paneer for additional protein content.
• Make it tangier: Swap lemon juice for balsamic vinegar for a deeper tang.
• Go Mediterranean: Serve with olives and feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired twist.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or coconut milk to maintain creaminess.

Pro Tips

• Use Quality Chickpeas: If using canned chickpeas, rinse and drain them well to remove excess sodium.
• Balance the Sauce: Adjust the amount of broth and coconut milk based on how thick or creamy you like your sauce.
• Enhance the Depth of Flavor: Let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld.
• For Extra Creaminess: Blend a small portion of the chickpeas and return it to the skillet.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Yes! Soak 1 cup of dried chickpeas overnight, then cook them until tender before using them in the recipe.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.

3. Can I substitute coconut milk?
Yes! Use cashew cream, almond milk, or heavy cream for a different flavor profile.

4. How can I make this dish oil-free?
Sauté the shallots and garlic in vegetable broth instead of oil.

Enjoy making and indulging in this rich and comforting Marry Me Chickpeas—a meal that’s sure to win hearts at the dinner table!

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