Rice Bowl with Chickpeas, Flatbread, and Salad
Looking for a delicious and nutritious meal? This Rice Bowl with Chickpeas, Flatbread, and Salad checks all the boxes! Packed with flavor, it combines the heartiness of chickpeas, the brightness of fresh salad ingredients, and the comforting goodness of rice and flatbread. Let’s dive into how to create this satisfying dish.
Why make this recipe?
This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something quick but delicious. It’s also healthy, full of plant-based protein, and can easily be customized to suit your taste. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more veggies into your diet!
How to prepare Rice Bowl with Chickpeas
Ingredients:
- 1 can chickpeas (or 1.5 cups cooked) 🥫
- 1 small onion, finely chopped 🧅
- 2 garlic cloves, minced 🧄
- 1 tsp cumin 🌿
- 1 tsp garam masala 🌱
- 1/2 tsp turmeric 🌼
- 1 tomato, diced 🍅
- Salt to taste 🧂
- Cilantro for garnish 🌿
- 1/2 cucumber, diced 🥒
- 1 tomato, diced 🍅
- 1/4 red onion, diced 🧅
- 3 tbsp plain yogurt 🥣
- Basmati rice 🍚
- Store-bought or homemade herb flatbread/naan 🍞
Instructions:
- Cook the Rice: Prepare your basmati rice according to package instructions. Keep it warm.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Add the Spices: Stir in cumin, garam masala, turmeric, and cook for a minute until fragrant.
- Combine with Chickpeas: Add the drained chickpeas and diced tomato. Season with salt. Cook everything together for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Prepare the Salad: In a bowl, combine diced cucumber, diced tomato, and diced red onion. Add a pinch of salt and mix well.
- Serve: In a bowl, layer the rice, chickpea mixture, and salad. Top with a dollop of yogurt and sprinkle cilantro for garnish. Enjoy with flatbread on the side!
How to serve Rice Bowl with Chickpeas
Serve your rice bowl warm with a side of flatbread. Enjoy dipping the flatbread into the chickpea mixture or scooping up the salad.
How to store Rice Bowl with Chickpeas
This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the rice and chickpeas when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Tips for preparing Rice Bowl with Chickpeas
- Rinse canned chickpeas to reduce sodium content.
- Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or spinach to the chickpea mixture for added nutrition.
- Adjust spices based on your personal heat preference; add chili powder for extra kick!
Variations
- Vegan Option: Simply skip the yogurt or use a plant-based yogurt for a vegan-friendly meal.
- Grain Alternatives: Swap out basmati rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice to change up the base.
FAQs
Q: Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
A: Yes! Just soak them overnight and cook until tender before adding them to the dish.
Q: What can I use instead of garam masala?
A: You can use a mixture of curry powder and a pinch of cinnamon if you don’t have garam masala on hand.
Q: Can I make this meal ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the chickpea mixture and salad in advance and store them in the fridge. Just cook the rice fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Enjoy creating this wonderful Rice Bowl with Chickpeas, Flatbread, and Salad! 🍽️