Spinach Brown Rice with Chickpeas

Embark on a culinary journey with our exquisite vegan spinach brown rice, infused with the earthy richness of chickpeas and a medley of aromatic spices. This wholesome dish offers a symphony of flavors and textures, marrying nutrient-packed ingredients to create a meal that nourishes both body and soul. Whether enjoyed as a hearty main course or a flavorful side dish, each bite of this dish promises to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup brown rice, rinsed thoroughly for optimal texture
  • 2 cups water for cooking rice
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, finely chopped for vibrant color and flavor
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped for aromatic depth
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced for savory essence
  • 1 tsp olive oil for sautéing
  • 1 tsp ground cumin for earthy warmth
  • 1/2 tsp ground coriander for aromatic notes
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness
  • Salt and black pepper to taste for perfect seasoning
  • Juice of 1 lemon for a refreshing zest
  • Fresh cilantro leaves for optional garnish, adding a touch of freshness

Instructions:

1. Cook the Brown Rice: Begin by rinsing the brown rice thoroughly under cold running water to remove any excess starch. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of water. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for approximately 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to steam. Fluff the rice with a fork for perfect texture.

2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion turns translucent and aromatic, about 3-4 minutes, infusing the dish with savory flavors.

3. Add the Spices and Chickpeas: Introduce the ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the skillet, stirring to coat the onion and garlic with the aromatic spices. Add the drained and rinsed chickpeas to the skillet, allowing them to absorb the flavors as they cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, creating a flavorful base for the dish.

4. Combine Spinach and Rice: Add the chopped fresh spinach to the skillet, gently stirring until it wilts and melds with the chickpea mixture, infusing the dish with vibrant color and nutritional goodness. Fold in the cooked brown rice and lemon juice, ensuring all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to marry and the dish to heat through.

5. Serve with Style: Transfer the vegan spinach brown rice with chickpeas to serving plates, allowing the enticing aromas to entice your senses. For a final touch of elegance, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, adding a burst of freshness to this delightful dish.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 274
  • Total Fat: 3g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Sodium: 309mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 54g
  • Dietary Fiber: 8g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 9g

Savor the Moment: Delight in the wholesome goodness of our vegan spinach brown rice with chickpeas, where each bite is a celebration of health, flavor, and culinary craftsmanship. Whether enjoyed as a nourishing meal for a weeknight dinner or a vibrant addition to your next gathering, this dish embodies the essence of plant-based cooking at its finest. Indulge in the richness of nutrient-packed ingredients and savor the vibrant flavors that dance on your palate with every mouthful. Experience the joy of wholesome eating with this exquisite dish that promises both satisfaction and nourishment, elevating your dining experience to new heights.

Recipe: Vegan Spinach Brown Rice with Chickpeas

Ingredients:
  • 1 cup brown rice2 cups water1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped1 small onion, finely chopped2 cloves garlic, minced1 tsp olive oil1 tsp ground cumin1/2 tsp ground coriander1/2 tsp smoked paprikaSalt and black pepper to tasteJuice of 1 lemonFresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
    • Instructions:

    1. Cook the Brown Rice:
  • Rinse the brown rice thoroughly under cold running water.In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
    • 2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
    • 3. Add the Spices and Chickpeas:
  • Add the ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the skillet with the sautéed onion and garlic. Stir to coat the spices evenly.Add the drained and rinsed chickpeas to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the chickpeas to absorb the flavors of the spices.
    • 4. Combine Spinach and Rice:
  • Add the chopped fresh spinach to the skillet and stir until it wilts and combines with the chickpea mixture.Fold in the cooked brown rice and lemon juice. Stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.
    • 5. Serve:
    • Transfer the Vegan Spinach Brown Rice with Chickpeas to serving plates.Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
      • Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
    • Calories: 274Total Fat: 3gSaturated Fat: 0gSodium: 309mgTotal Carbohydrates: 54gDietary Fiber: 8gSugars: 2gProtein: 9g