Some of my most cherished memories are not just about taste, but also about the spiritual experiences that food can offer. This brings me to a story that I hold dear.
During Bible study, I often imagine Israel and all the places Jesus walked. As my mind wanders through the ancient streets, I can’t help but imagine Jesus savoring every moment, every interaction, every meal. It reminds me of the importance of being present, of savoring every moment with God – much like we savor every bite of a delicious meal. This inspired me to make a meal that is not only flavorful but also adheres to the Daniel Fast, something that allows us to savor every moment with Jesus. And thus, this Chickpea Shakshuka was born.
Shakshuka, a dish that originated from Tunisia and is popular in many parts of North Africa and the Middle East, is truly a versatile meal. It’s traditionally made with gently poached eggs in a flavorful sauce of tomatoes, bell peppers, and various spices.
While it’s often seen as a classic breakfast dish in its regions of origin, its hearty and satisfying nature makes it perfect for any meal of the day. So, whether you’re in the mood for a robust start to your morning, a comforting lunch, or a simple yet delicious dinner, Shakshuka can be your go-to dish.
This delightful mixture of flavors not only offers a gastronomic adventure but is also great for the Daniel Fast when the eggs are omitted, making it a wonderful addition to your plant-based meal repertoire.
Now, let’s dive into creating this flavorful and healthy dish:
Chickpea Shakshuka Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat a large pan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper with a splash of water, and sauté until the onions become translucent.
- Add cumin and paprika to the pan, stirring well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
- Add the diced tomatoes and chickpeas to the pan. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Helpful Tips & Serving Suggestions
This Chickpea Shakshuka is a meal in itself, but you can also serve it over brown rice or quinoa for added nutrition. For extra freshness, serve with a side of cucumber-tomato salad.
Portion Size & Nutrition Information
This recipe serves four, and each serving contains approximately 220 calories, 3 grams of fat, 40 grams of carbohydrates, and 10 grams of protein. Please note that nutritional content can vary depending on the exact ingredients used.
So there you have it – a simple, hearty, and flavorful Chickpea Shakshuka that adheres to the Daniel Fast. Enjoy this dish and remember to savor every moment, just as Jesus did.