Introducing the Chili Chickpea Bow—a delicious and nutritious twist on the classic San Choy Bow! This flavorful dish combines spicy chickpeas, aromatic garlic and ginger, crunchy peanuts, and fresh vegetables, all wrapped up in crisp lettuce cups. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal, this Chili Chickpea Bow is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Chickpeas are not only packed with protein and fiber but also versatile and delicious. Paired with aromatic spices, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing, they transform into a mouthwatering meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate the fusion of flavors and the comfort of a hearty bowl.
The Spicy Chickpea Filling
The heart of this Chilli Chickpea Bow is the flavorful chickpea filling. Spiced with red chili, garlic, and ginger, the chickpeas offer a satisfyingly spicy kick that’s balanced out by the nuttiness of peanuts and the umami depth of tamari.
Fresh and Crunchy Toppings
To complement the spicy chickpea filling, this Chili Chickpea Bow features a variety of fresh and crunchy toppings. Brown onion and spring onions add savory depth, while mushrooms provide a meaty texture. Peanuts contribute a delightful crunch, making each bite a symphony of flavors and textures.
Lettuce Cups: The Perfect Vessel
Instead of traditional taco shells or wraps, this Chili Chickpea Bow is served in crisp lettuce cups, specifically cos lettuce. This not only adds a refreshing crunch but also makes the dish a lighter and healthier option. Plus, eating with your hands is always fun!
This Chili Chickpea Bow is a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a quick and healthy dinner or lunch. With its spicy chickpea filling, fresh and crunchy toppings, and crisp lettuce cups, this dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that’s sure to impress.
So, why not give this Chili Chickpea Bow a try? Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch or a flavorful dinner, this dish is sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy!
All-Star Ingredients
- Brown Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
- Spring Onions: Provides a fresh and mild onion flavor.
- Red Chili: Infuses heat and spice.
- Peanuts: Adds crunch and a nutty flavor.
- Garlic: Enhances the aromatic profile.
- Ginger: Adds warmth and depth.
- Mushrooms: Provides a meaty texture.
- Chickpeas: The star protein-packed ingredient.
- Tamari: Adds umami and depth of flavor.
- Oil: For sautéing and flavor.
- Lettuce Cups (Cos Lettuce): A refreshing base for the bow.
Method
Preparation: Start by rinsing and draining the chickpeas. Finely chop the brown onion, spring onions, red chili, garlic, and ginger. Slice the mushrooms and prepare the lettuce cups.
Sautéing: Heat oil in a pan and add the chopped brown onion, spring onions, red chili, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until fragrant.
Cooking Chickpeas: Add the chickpeas to the pan and stir well. Cook until the chickpeas are heated through.
Seasoning: Stir in the tamari and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Assembling: Fill the lettuce cups with the chickpea mixture. Top with sliced mushrooms and peanuts for added crunch.
Garnish: Garnish with additional spring onions and red chilli slices if desired.
Tips and Variations
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chilli according to your preference for heat.
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or tofu for an extra protein punch.
- Serve with: This Chili Chickpea Bow pairs beautifully with a side of brown rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
Chili Chickpea Bow
Course: DinnerDifficulty: Easy4
servings15
minutes20
minutes485
kcalIngredients
1 can (400g) chickpeas, rinsed and drained.
1 brown onion, finely chopped.
2 spring onions, sliced.
1 red chili, finely chopped.
3-4 cloves of garlic, minced.
1 inch piece of ginger, minced.
200g mushrooms, sliced.
1/4 cup peanuts
2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce
2 tablespoon oil
cos lettuce leaves, (lettuce cups) for serving.
Directions
- In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the brown onion, spring onions, red chili, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the chickpeas, tamari or soy sauce, and peanuts. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Meanwhile, carefully separate the cos lettuce leaves to create lettuce cups. Wash and dry them thoroughly.
- Spoon the spicy chickpea filling into the lettuce cups, dividing evenly among the cups.
- Garnish with additional sliced spring onions and peanuts, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Adjust the amount of red chili according to your preference for heat. If you like it spicy, add an extra chili or keep the seeds for an extra kick.
- For added texture, you can lightly toast the peanuts before adding them to the dish. This will enhance their crunchiness and nutty flavor.
- Serve the Chilli Chickpea Bow with a side of brown rice or quinoa for a more substantial meal. You can also drizzle some sriracha or tahini sauce on top for an additional flavor boost.
- The chickpea filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat before serving and assemble with fresh lettuce cups when ready to eat.
- Consider adding some leafy greens like spinach or kale to the chickpea filling for an extra dose of vitamins and minerals.
