Introduction
This delightful recipe combines the rich flavors of chorizo with hearty chickpeas in a comforting tomato-based sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal any day, this dish is sure to warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds. Pair it with some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce for an excellent culinary experience.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1½ tablespoons olive oil
250g (8 oz) chorizo, cut into 8mm (1/3 inch) slices
2 garlic cloves, minced
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (substitute with regular paprika if unavailable)
1 bay leaf (preferably fresh; dried can be used as an alternative)
400g (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
400g (14 oz) can chickpeas, drained
1 cup low-sodium chicken stock or broth
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1:
Heat olive oil in a large saucepan or small pot over medium-high heat.
Step 2:
Add chorizo slices and cook for approximately 3 minutes until they are golden brown.
Step 3:
Add minced garlic, dried thyme, smoked paprika, and the bay leaf. Stir and cook for 1 minute.
Step 4:
Incorporate the crushed tomatoes, drained chickpeas, chicken stock, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
Step 5:
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer.
Step 6:
Cook uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the sauce has thickened.
Step 7:
Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Step 8:
Serve hot, ideally with crusty bread for dipping.
Notes
Note 1:
If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can use regular paprika as a substitute.
Note 2:
Using fresh bay leaves will enhance the flavor, but dried bay leaves are a suitable alternative.
Note 3:
Ensure the chickpeas are well-drained to avoid excess liquid in the dish.
Note 4:
Adjust the seasoning to taste, especially if using low-sodium chicken stock.
Cook techniques
Heating Olive Oil
Start by heating olive oil in a large saucepan or small pot over medium-high heat. This step is essential for developing the base flavor of the dish.
Cooking Chorizo
Add chorizo slices to the heated oil and cook for approximately 3 minutes. Ensure that they turn golden brown for maximum flavor release.
Adding Aromatics
Introduce minced garlic, dried thyme, smoked paprika, and the bay leaf into the pot. Stir and cook for 1 minute to allow the flavors to meld and the garlic to become fragrant.
Incorporating Liquids and Ingredients
After the aromatics, mix in the crushed tomatoes, drained chickpeas, chicken stock, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients for an even flavor.
Simmering the Sauce
Bring the mixture to a simmer and then reduce the heat to medium-low. This allows the flavors to develop and the sauce to thicken without burning.
Stirring Occasionally
Cook the sauce uncovered for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking.
Removing the Bay Leaf
Before serving, remember to remove the bay leaf as it is not meant to be eaten whole.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of sausage instead of chorizo?
Yes, you can substitute chorizo with another type of sausage, but the flavor profile will change. Consider using a spicy Italian sausage for a similar kick.
What can I use instead of chickpeas?
If you don’t have chickpeas, you can substitute them with white beans or lentils, but the texture and flavor will be different.
Is it necessary to use smoked paprika?
While smoked paprika adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with regular paprika if needed. The dish will be less smoky, but still delicious.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, replace the chicken stock with vegetable stock and use plant-based chorizo or skip the sausage entirely for a vegetarian option.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
Conclusion
This dish combines the rich flavors of chorizo with the wholesome goodness of chickpeas and tomatoes, creating a satisfying meal that is both hearty and nutritious. The aromatic spices enhance the overall taste, making it a delightful option for any occasion. Perfect for serving with crusty bread, this recipe is sure to impress.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chickpea and Spinach Stew
Replace chorizo with cooked spinach and add a squeeze of lemon for a vibrant twist.
Spicy Chorizo and Potato Hash
Incorporate diced potatoes into the original recipe and serve as a breakfast hash.
Vegetarian Tomato and Chickpea Curry
Substitute chorizo with diced bell peppers and add coconut milk for a creamy curry version.
Chorizo and Quinoa Bowl
Serve the chorizo mixture over a bed of quinoa for a protein-packed meal.
Tomato and Chickpea Soup
Blend the finished stew until smooth, and serve as a comforting soup with a drizzle of olive oil.
