Apulian Chickpea and Vegetable Stew (Cicoria e Fagioli)
Dive into the heart of Southern Italy with this rustic and hearty Apulian Chickpea and Vegetable Stew. Combining the earthy flavors of chickpeas with the bitterness of cicoria and a medley of vegetables, this dish is a testament to the simplicity and wholesomeness of Mediterranean cuisine.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 cup Chickpeas, dried 200g
- 2 cups Cicoria (dandelion greens), chopped 140g
- 3 tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil 45ml
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced 6g
- 1 medium Onion, chopped 110g
- 2 medium Carrots, diced 150g
- 2 stalks Celery, diced 80g
- 14 ounces Canned tomatoes, crushed 400g
- 4 cups Vegetable broth 960ml
- 2 Bay leaves
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
- a pinch Red pepper flakes optional
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by soaking the dried chickpeas overnight in plenty of water. Drain and rinse them the next day.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the diced carrots and celery to the pot. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are slightly softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and cook for another 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, add the pre-soaked chickpeas, bay leaves, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 30 minutes or until the chickpeas are tender.
- Add the chopped cicoria and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the greens are wilted and tender.
- Remove the bay leaves and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the stew hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
Notes
Cicoria, also known as dandelion greens, can be replaced with other bitter greens such as escarole or Swiss chard if unavailable. For a non-vegetarian version, consider adding pancetta or sausage for added depth of flavor.