Chickpea Alla Vodka with Crunchy Black Pepper Almonds

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Chickpea Alla Vodka with Black Pepper Almonds is a delightful dish that combines hearty flavors and textures for an incredibly comforting meal. As a vegetarian delight, this recipe brings together creamy chickpea vodka sauce with the crunch of roasted black pepper almonds, creating a perfect balance of taste and texture. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal on the weekend, this dish fits the bill beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Chickpea Alla Vodka with

This Chickpea Alla Vodka with recipe is not just delicious, it’s also packed with benefits. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore this dish:

It’s a quick meal that can be prepared in just 45 minutes.
Offers a hearty dose of protein thanks to the queen chickpeas.
The chickpea vodka sauce is creamy and satisfying, perfect for pasta lovers.
It’s a vegetarian dish that caters to a variety of dietary preferences.
This recipe can easily be made vegan by substituting with plant-based alternatives.
It’s a great source of fiber, making it a healthy choice for any meal.
Chickpeas in vodka sauce provide a unique and flavorful twist on a classic dish.
Perfect for meal prep, leftovers taste even better the next day!

Ingredients for Chickpea Alla Vodka with

Gather these items:

1 medium white onion
1 pinch chili flakes
3 cloves garlic
200 grams tomato puree
400 grams tinned plum tomatoes
100 ml vodka
1 pinch saffron threads
100 grams mascarpone or vegan alternative
400 grams queen chickpeas
50 grams grated parmesan or vegan alternative
100 grams skin-on whole almonds
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon dried herbs (sage, thyme, or oregano)
1 tablespoon maple syrup
250 grams tenderstem broccoli
1 loaf focaccia or ciabatta

How to Make Chickpea Alla Vodka with Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 180°C (200°C non-fan). Toss the almonds with olive oil, black pepper, herbs, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt. Roast for 8-10 minutes until crispy.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a medium pan. Add onion, chili flakes, and salt. Cook until onion is translucent, about 5-6 minutes.
Step 3: Add sliced garlic, cooking for an additional couple of minutes. Stir in tomato puree and increase heat. Cook for 2 minutes.
Step 4: Incorporate tinned plum tomatoes, mashing gently. Let cook for 2-3 minutes, then add vodka.
Step 5: Add saffron with soaking water and cream to the sauce. Stir in chickpeas and their stock, warming through.
Step 6: Finish by grating parmesan into the sauce, serving topped with crispy black pepper almonds.
Step 7: Toss tenderstem broccoli in olive oil and salt, roasting for 5-6 minutes until charred.

Pro Tips for the Best Chickpea Alla Vodka with

Keep these in mind:

Use high-quality vodka for the best flavor.
Soak saffron threads in warm water for enhanced color and flavor.
For a gluten-free option, substitute the pasta with gluten-free alternatives.
This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep.

Best Ways to Serve Chickpea Alla Vodka with

There are many ways to enjoy this delicious dish:

Serve over your favorite pasta for a creamy chickpea vodka pasta experience.
Pair with a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
Enjoy with crusty bread like focaccia or ciabatta to soak up the sauce.

How to Store and Reheat Chickpea Alla Vodka with

To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When reheating, gently warm on the stovetop or microwave until heated through. This makes for an excellent quick Chickpea Alla Vodka meal!

Frequently Asked Questions About Chickpea Alla Vodka with

What is Chickpea Alla Vodka?

Chickpea Alla Vodka is a comforting dish that features chickpeas in a rich and creamy vodka sauce, perfect for pasta or as a standalone meal.

Can I make Chickpea Alla Vodka with ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheating it will meld the flavors even more, making it a delightful option for meal prep.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chickpea Alla Vodka with?

To avoid mistakes, ensure not to overcook the chickpeas and allow the sauce to simmer, which helps develop a richer flavor. Use quality ingredients for the best outcome.

Variations of Chickpea Alla Vodka with You Can Try

For those looking to mix things up, here are some variations:

Make it vegan by substituting mascarpone and parmesan with plant-based alternatives.
Add spinach or kale for an extra nutrient boost.
Try different types of pasta, such as whole wheat or gluten-free, for a different twist on the dish.
Experiment with different nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a unique crunchy topping.

For more delicious vegetarian recipes, check out Healthy Grain Bowls with Chickpeas or Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta.

Ingredients for Chickpea Alla Vodka including chickpeas, vodka, and spices

For more tips on cooking with chickpeas, you might find this curried chickpea salad helpful, or explore Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta for a different flavor profile.