Oh boy, do I have a delightful treat for you today! Let me share one of my all-time favorite recipes: Smoky Spiced Chickpeas in Tomato Sauce. This dish is not only bursting with flavor but is also incredibly easy to whip up. I stumbled upon it during one of my weeknight cooking sessions when I was in dire need of something hearty, comforting, and healthful. It quickly became a staple meal in my kitchen, and I think you’re going to love it just as much.
There’s something about the combination of spices in this dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. When the smoky paprika meets zesty tomatoes, my taste buds do a little happy dance. I often find myself making this recipe when friends come over for dinner; they just can’t believe how rich and fulfilling it is considering how simple the ingredients are! So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this deliciously smoky and spiced adventure together!
What’s in Smoky Spiced Chickpeas in Tomato Sauce?
Chickpeas: These little gems form the heart of our dish. I usually reach for canned ones because they save time and are super convenient. Just be sure to rinse them well!
Diced Tomatoes: A can of diced tomatoes brings all the lush juiciness to the party. I often go for brands that don’t add preservatives because I love keeping it as fresh as possible.
Olive Oil: A splash of this liquid gold is essential for sautéing the veggies and creating a lovely depth of flavor.
Onion: Diced finely, it provides the foundational flavor you’ll build on. I like to use yellow onions because they balance sweetness and savory perfectly.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is a must. It infuses the dish with an aromatic punch that you just can’t get from powdered versions.
Smoked Paprika: This is where the magic happens! It gives our dish its signature smoky flavor without needing to grill anything.
Ground Cumin: A lovely earthiness that complements the spices beautifully. It’s quite the powerhouse in this dish!
Chili Powder: If you like a little fire in your meals, add chili powder for some heat. It’s totally optional, but I say why not?
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all these flavors together!
Corn: I love adding either fresh or frozen corn for a pop of sweetness and vibrant color. It’s like adding sunshine to your plate!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is my go-to for that finishing touch. It not only looks beautiful but adds a bright flavor.
Rice or Couscous: You can serve this delightful dish over warm rice or fluffy couscous, making it even more satisfying.
Is Smoky Spiced Chickpeas in Tomato Sauce Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish is packed with nutritious ingredients that not only taste good but are good for you too.
Chickpeas: They are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, making this dish quite filling. Plus, they help stabilize your blood sugar levels—win-win!
Corn: Whether fresh or frozen, corn adds a nice crunch and is loaded with vitamins. It’s especially full of antioxidants that are great for your immune system.
Olive Oil: Rich in healthy fats, it’s heart-friendly and delicious. Just remember to use it in moderation!
This dish is pretty light on calories and high on satisfaction, making it a guilt-free choice for lunch or dinner. Just be mindful of any added sauces or sides you might use—balance is key, my friend!
Ingredients
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
– Cooked rice or couscous for serving (optional)
*This recipe serves about 4 people, perfect for a family meal or leftovers for lunch.*
How to Make Smoky Spiced Chickpeas in Tomato Sauce?
1. First things first, heat that olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Toss in the diced onion and sauté until it’s translucent—this should take about 5 minutes. It’s all about those aromas starting to fill your kitchen.
3. Stir in your minced garlic and let it cook for about 1 minute until fragrant; you want your kitchen to smell heavenly!
4. Now, it’s time for the spices! Add the smoked paprika, ground cumin, and chili powder (if you’re feeling spicy). Stir everything together and cook for another 30 seconds.
5. Pour in those canned tomatoes and chickpeas, and give it a good mix. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
6. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes. This is when the magic happens as all those flavors meld together beautifully.
7. Finally, toss in the corn and cook for an additional 5 minutes until it’s nice and heated through.
8. Adjust the seasoning as needed, then remove from heat. Serve this warm, garnished with fresh cilantro, over a bed of rice or couscous for extra comfort!
Serving Suggestions for Maximum Yum!
You could definitely enjoy this dish on its own, but I also love serving it with a sprinkle of feta cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a refreshing creamy contrast.
Want to amp it up a notch? Consider pairing it with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. Trust me, you’ll want every last drop!
I really hope you give this Smoky Spiced Chickpeas in Tomato Sauce a whirl! It’s one of those dishes that not only warms your belly but also your heart. If you try it out, shoot me a message or comment below to share how it turned out or what you did differently! Happy cooking!
