Recipe: Moroccan Spiced Chickpeas

These Moroccan-Spiced Chickpeas are where flavor meets comfort.  Did you know chickpeas, AKA “garbanzo beans”, are a superfood for the heart?  Chickpeas contain “sitosterol,” which is a structure similar to cholesterol that interferes with the body’s absorption of cholesterol. This helps to lower blood cholesterol levels. Additionally, the fiber and unsaturated fats may favorably affect blood lipid levels; therefore, a triple threat for heart-protective benefits!

Moroccan Spiced Chickpeas

Serves 4-6

Ingredients:

• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 yellow onion, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 Tbsp chili powder
• 1 Tbsp cumin
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp cayenne
• 2 cans chickpeas (14 oz each), drained and rinsed
• 2 cans fire-roasted diced tomatoes (14 oz each), drained
• 1/2 Tbsp lemon juice (approx. 1/2 lemon)
• 1/4 C fresh mint
• 1/4 C plain Greek yogurt
• 1/4 C hummus

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet on the stove over medium heat. Add onion. Sauté until soft, 7-9 minutes.
2. Add garlic, turmeric, garam masala, chili powder, cumin, cinnamon, cayenne, salt, and chickpeas to the skillet. Stir until very fragrant, 1-2 minutes.
3. Add drained, fire-roasted tomatoes and simmer 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove from heat. Top with lemon juice and mint. Serve warm alongside hummus and Greek yogurt.

Tip: Consider completing the meal by serving with your favorite plate method additions or ours, listed below:

• 1 C Moroccan Spiced Chickpeas for a quarter plate of vegetarian protein
• 1/2 C couscous, quinoa, or naan bread for a quarter plate starch/carbohydrate
• 1 diced cucumber or jicama root, for a quarter plate of non-starchy vegetables
• 2 C kale, chopped into bite-size pieces for a quarter plate of non-starchy vegetables

Swaps:

• For the chickpeas: canned white beans
• For the fire-roasted diced tomatoes: regular canned diced tomatoes
• For the mint: parsley or cilantro

Source: https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/food-features/chickpeas-garbanzo-beans/

Adapted from: https://pinchofyum.com/morrocan-spiced-chickpea-glow-bowl