How to Make Turkish Chickpea Stew (Nohut Yemegi)
Turkish Chickpea Stew, known as Nohut Yemeği, is a hearty, nutritious dish that's simple to prepare. This traditional meal combines chickpeas with vegetables and spices, creating a flavorful stew that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're looking for a filling vegetarian option or just want to explore Turkish cuisine, this recipe will guide you through the process.
Ingredients for Turkish Chickpea Stew
To make Nohut Yemeği, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup dried chickpeas (or 2 cans of cooked chickpeas)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1 medium potato, diced
- 1 teaspoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Preparation Steps
Follow these simple steps to make your Turkish Chickpea Stew:
1. Prepare the Chickpeas
If you are using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight in plenty of water. This will help them cook evenly. The next day, drain and rinse the chickpeas. If using canned chickpeas, simply drain and rinse them before use.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add Vegetables and Spices
Mix in the chopped tomatoes, carrot, and potato. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften. Add the tomato paste, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine the flavors.
4. Cook the Chickpeas
Add the soaked chickpeas (or canned chickpeas) to the pot. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chickpeas are tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
5. Final Touches
Once cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If the stew is too thick, feel free to add more broth. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for an extra burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Turkish Chickpea Stew can be served with a side of rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. It pairs beautifully with a simple salad, yogurt, or pickles to complement the rich flavors of the stew.
Conclusion
Nohut Yemeği is not only a delicious and filling dish, but it's also packed with nutrients and perfect for meal prep. Enjoy this comforting stew as part of your regular meal rotation, and share it with family and friends for a taste of Turkish hospitality!