Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cans of chickpeas (15 oz each), drained and rinsed
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Special equipment needed: None
Step-by-step instructions:
a. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes or until they are caramelized and golden brown.
b. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chickpeas, olives, honey, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
c. Add the caramelized onions to the chickpea mixture and stir to combine.
d. Transfer the mixture to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley leaves.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
5. Temperature:
Medium heat
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 310
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Protein: 9g
Fiber: 9g
Sugar: 9g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of canned or cooked chickpeas.
- You can use any type of olives, but Kalamata olives are recommended for their flavor.
- You can use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey.
Variations:
- You can add chopped tomatoes or cucumbers to the mixture.
- You can add crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese on top.
- You can serve the mixture warm or cold.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to cook the onions slowly and stir them occasionally to prevent burning.
- You can make the caramelized onions ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- You can also make the chickpea mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Storage instructions:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
You can reheat the mixture in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the Balila with Caramelized Onions and Olives in a large serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley leaves.
Garnishes:
Fresh parsley leaves
Pairings:
This dish pairs well with pita bread, flatbread, or crackers.
Suggested side dishes:
You can serve this dish with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or hummus.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the chickpea mixture is too dry, you can add more olive oil or lemon juice to adjust the consistency.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to store any leftovers in the fridge and consume them within 3 days.
Food history:
Balila is a popular Middle Eastern dish made with chickpeas and spices. It is often served as a snack or appetizer.
Flavor profiles:
This dish has a sweet and savory flavor profile with caramelized onions, honey, and olives.
Serving suggestions:
Serve this dish as a snack or appetizer at a party or as a side dish for a main meal.
Related Categories
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Region: Lebanese