Imagine a delicious, flavorful dish that combines the rich flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine with the wholesome goodness of chickpeas. Introducing Chickpea Shakshuka (Eggless), a delectable twist on the classic shakshuka recipe. Bursting with vibrant colors and aromatic spices, this egg-free version offers a unique and healthful alternative that will have you coming back for seconds. Get ready to savor every mouthful of this delightful culinary creation that is sure to become a favorite amongst vegans and non-vegans alike.
Ingredients
To make a delicious and satisfying Chickpea Shakshuka, you will need the following ingredients:
Chickpeas
Chickpeas are the star ingredient in this recipe. They add a hearty and nutty flavor to the dish and are a great source of protein and fiber.
Tomatoes
Fresh and ripe tomatoes are essential for the base of the shakshuka sauce. They provide a rich and vibrant flavor to the dish.
Bell peppers
Colorful bell peppers not only add a pop of color to the shakshuka but also bring a slight sweetness and crunch to the dish.
Onion
Finely chopped onion adds a savory flavor and helps to build a flavorful base for the shakshuka sauce.
Garlic
Mince garlic cloves will infuse the sauce with a delicious and aromatic flavor.
Ground cumin
Ground cumin is a warm spice that adds an earthy, smoky flavor to the shakshuka.
Paprika
Paprika provides a mild heat and a hint of sweetness to the dish.
Cayenne pepper
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, cayenne pepper adds the perfect kick to the shakshuka.
Turmeric
Turmeric not only adds a beautiful golden color to the dish but also provides a subtle earthy flavor.
Salt
Salt enhances the flavors of the dish and helps to balance the spices.
Black pepper
Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle heat and depth of flavor to the shakshuka.
Olive oil
Olive oil is used for sautéing the vegetables and adds a delicious richness to the dish.
Fresh parsley
Chopped fresh parsley adds a refreshing and vibrant taste to the shakshuka.
Bread (optional)
Serving the shakshuka with bread is optional but highly recommended. It can be used for dipping and soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare ingredients
Before starting to cook, it is important to prepare all the ingredients:
- First, drain and rinse the chickpeas to remove any excess salt or preservatives.
- Dice the tomatoes into small cubes, ensuring that they are ripe and juicy.
- Chop the bell peppers into bite-sized pieces, removing any seeds or membranes.
- Finely chop the onion to get a smooth and even texture in the sauce.
- Mince the garlic cloves for a stronger flavor.
- Chop fresh parsley for garnishing.
- If desired, slice the bread to serve alongside the shakshuka.
Step 2: Cook the vegetables
To begin cooking the shakshuka, follow these steps:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
- Sauté the onions and garlic until they become translucent and fragrant.
- Add the bell peppers and cook for a few minutes until they start to soften.
- Finally, add the diced tomatoes and cook until they release their juices and create a flavorful sauce.
Step 3: Add spices and chickpeas
To add depth and complexity to the shakshuka, follow these steps:
- Add ground cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, turmeric, salt, and black pepper to the skillet.
- Stir well to coat the vegetables evenly with the spices.
- Add the drained and rinsed chickpeas to the skillet and mix them with the vegetables and spices.
Step 4: Simmer the mixture
To allow the flavors to come together and meld, follow these steps:
- Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low.
- Let the shakshuka simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop and intensify.
Step 5: Adjust seasoning
Before serving the shakshuka, taste and adjust the seasoning according to your preference:
- Taste the shakshuka and add more salt or spices if needed to achieve the desired flavor.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
To add the finishing touches and present the shakshuka beautifully:
- Sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley on top of the shakshuka for a burst of freshness and color.
- Serve the shakshuka hot in individual bowls or a large serving dish.
- If desired, serve with bread on the side for dipping and sopping up the flavorful sauce.
Tips and Variations
Add other vegetables like spinach or zucchini
For added nutrition and variety, feel free to incorporate other vegetables into the shakshuka. Spinach or zucchini are excellent choices that can be sautéed along with the bell peppers and onions.
Substitute dried spices with fresh ones for enhanced flavor
While dried spices work well in this recipe, you can intensify the flavors even further by using fresh spices. Simply replace the ground cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, and turmeric with their fresh counterparts and adjust the quantities to taste.
Add a dash of lemon juice for tanginess
For a tangy twist to the shakshuka, squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the dish before serving. The acidity will brighten the flavors and add a refreshing touch.
Top with crumbled feta cheese for extra richness
If you’re a fan of cheese, crumbled feta is a fantastic addition to the shakshuka. Sprinkle it over the top before serving to add a creamy and tangy element to the dish.
Serve with pita bread instead of regular bread
If you want to stick to the Middle Eastern theme, serve the shakshuka with warm and fluffy pita bread instead of regular bread. Tear off a piece and use it to wrap the shakshuka or simply scoop up the delicious sauce.
Conclusion
Chickpea Shakshuka is a delightful twist on the classic Middle Eastern dish. This eggless version replaces the traditional eggs with protein-packed chickpeas, creating a hearty and flavorful meal. By following these simple steps and adding your favorite vegetables and spices, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of the savory chickpeas and spiced tomato sauce. So gather your ingredients, heat up the stove, and get ready to savor the mouthwatering goodness of Chickpea Shakshuka!
