Marry Me Chickpeas

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Marry Me Chickpeas are a savory, rich, and flavorful plant-based dish that’s so delicious, it might just lead to a lifetime of love! These chickpeas are simmered in a creamy coconut milk sauce with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and a variety of aromatic spices. The combination of tender chickpeas and the rich, fragrant sauce creates a comforting dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even special occasions. It’s easy to make, healthy, and absolutely mouthwatering!

Ingredients

• 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (optional, for color and flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth or water
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
• Cooked rice or quinoa, for serving

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but not browned.
2. Add the Spices and Tomatoes: Stir in the smoked paprika, cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom and infuse the oil.
3. Add the Chickpeas and Liquid: Add the chickpeas, coconut milk, and vegetable broth (or water) to the skillet. Stir well to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Simmer and Cook: Let the chickpeas simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally.
5. Season: Season the chickpeas with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
6. Serve: Serve the Marry Me Chickpeas over a bed of rice, quinoa, or any grain of your choice. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for added flavor and color.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for some heat.
• Add Vegetables: Stir in spinach, kale, or bell peppers to make the dish even heartier.
• Creamier Version: Stir in a couple of tablespoons of heavy cream or Greek yogurt at the end of cooking for an even creamier sauce.
• Roasted Chickpeas: For extra texture, roast the chickpeas in the oven with olive oil and seasoning for a few minutes before adding them to the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
• Freezing: Freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes! If you’re using dried chickpeas, cook them ahead of time, then follow the rest of the recipe.

Can I make this recipe spicier?

Absolutely! Add chopped jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to taste.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly, as it’s made with coconut milk and chickpeas without any animal products.

What should I serve this with?

Serve Marry Me Chickpeas over rice, quinoa, or couscous. It also pairs well with naan bread or roasted vegetables.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Sauté the garlic, spices, and sun-dried tomatoes, then add the chickpeas, coconut milk, and broth to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, Marry Me Chickpeas taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Simply store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.

Can I use other beans?

Yes, you can swap chickpeas for other beans like white beans, kidney beans, or lentils. Adjust cooking time accordingly if using lentils.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chickpeas are a simple yet delicious dish that will win you over with their rich, aromatic flavor and creamy coconut sauce. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can make a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it over rice or quinoa, or with a side of naan, this dish will quickly become a new favorite in your recipe collection!

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