Brothy Chickpeas and Emmer

If you’re searching for a cozy, nourishing dish that brings together the heartiness of grains and the comfort of brothy goodness, look no further than this delightful recipe for Brothy Chickpeas and Emmer. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also packed with protein and flavor, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying lunch or dinner. The chickpeas bring a wonderful creaminess to the broth, while the emmer adds a delightful chewiness that elevates the entire dish. So, gather your ingredients and let’s dive into the details!

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe shines because of its balance of flavors and textures. The combination of cooked chickpeas and emmer provides plant-based protein and fiber, making it a filling meal that will keep you satisfied for hours. The use of broth adds depth, while the acidity from the rice vinegar brightens the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Plus, the simplicity of the ingredients means you can whip this up on a busy weeknight without breaking a sweat.

Shopping List

• 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
• 1 ½ cups (315g) cooked chickpeas
• 2 cups (480g) bean or vegetable broth
• 1 cup (200g) cooked pearled or whole emmer (or any chewy grain)
• Grated parmesan cheese for finishing
• Black pepper for finishing

Essential Tools for Success

• Large pot: For cooking the broth and chickpeas.
• Wooden spoon: For stirring and combining ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient quantities.
• Grater: For freshly grating parmesan cheese before serving.

Cook Brothy Chickpeas and Emmer Like This

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once heated, add the diced medium yellow onion and kosher salt. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This step is crucial as it builds a solid flavor base for your broth.

Step 2: Add the Chickpeas and Broth

Next, stir in the cooked chickpeas and pour in the bean or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. This should take about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Incorporate the Emmer

Once the broth has come to a simmer, add the cooked emmer to the pot. Stir well to combine, ensuring the grains are evenly distributed throughout the broth. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to warm everything through.

Step 4: Finish with Vinegar and Seasoning

Remove the pot from heat and stir in the rice vinegar. This will add a lovely acidity to the dish that brightens the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning with more kosher salt or black pepper if necessary.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle the Brothy Chickpeas and Emmer into bowls. Finish with a generous sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese and a crack of black pepper on top. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this nourishing dish!

Quick Replacement Ideas

• If you don’t have emmer, you can substitute with farro, barley, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
• For a vegan alternative, simply omit the parmesan cheese or substitute with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
• Use apple cider vinegar instead of rice vinegar if that’s what you have on hand.
• Swap olive oil for avocado oil or another neutral oil if you prefer.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

This Brothy Chickpeas and Emmer recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables like spinach, kale, or carrots for added nutrition. Feel free to experiment with herbs and spices, such as thyme or cumin, for a different flavor profile. The dish works well as a hearty meal on its own, or you can serve it alongside crusty bread for dipping.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you’re looking to extend the life of your Brothy Chickpeas and Emmer, consider freezing individual portions in freezer-safe bags. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the consistency.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use canned chickpeas instead of cooked ones?

Absolutely! Canned chickpeas are a great time-saver. Just rinse and drain them before adding to the recipe.

Is there a gluten-free grain I can use in this recipe?

Yes! Quinoa or brown rice are excellent gluten-free substitutes for emmer in this dish.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the broth and chickpeas ahead of time. Just add the emmer and vinegar right before serving to keep the dish fresh.

What can I serve with Brothy Chickpeas and Emmer?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for dipping. It’s a complete meal on its own, but a side of roasted vegetables would also complement it beautifully.

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The Takeaway

Brothy Chickpeas and Emmer is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. With its rich flavors, nutritious ingredients, and comforting texture, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this recipe is sure to impress. The best part? It’s adaptable, so feel free to make it your own! Enjoy the process of creating this wholesome dish, and remember to savor every spoonful.