Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup of vegetable broth
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups of fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet
- Mixing spoon
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the chickpeas, vegetable broth, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
4. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the chickpeas are heated through and the broth has thickened slightly.
5. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and stir it in until it wilts.
6. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the chickpeas and spinach.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat
Serving size:
4 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 240
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 27g
Protein: 11g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Vegetable broth can be substituted with chicken or beef broth.
- Fresh spinach can be substituted with frozen spinach, but it will need to be thawed and drained before using.
- Feta cheese can be substituted with goat cheese or queso fresco.
Variations:
- Add diced tomatoes to the skillet for a burst of freshness.
- Top with chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, for added flavor.
- Serve over rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to rinse the chickpeas thoroughly before using to remove any excess salt or debris.
- If the broth is too thick, add more vegetable broth or water to thin it out.
- Adjust the spices to your liking - add more cumin or cayenne pepper for a spicier dish.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve in individual bowls or on a large platter for sharing.
Garnishes:
Top with a sprinkle of paprika or chopped fresh herbs.
Pairings:
Serve with warm pita bread or crusty bread for dipping.
Suggested side dishes:
- Greek salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Hummus and pita chips
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the broth is too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to thicken.
- If the chickpeas are too dry, add more vegetable broth or water to the skillet.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food history:
Balila is a Lebanese dish made with chickpeas and spices. It is often served as a breakfast or snack food.
Flavor profiles:
This dish is savory and slightly spicy, with a creamy texture from the chickpeas and feta cheese.
Serving suggestions:
Serve hot and enjoy as a main dish or side dish.
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Region: Lebanese