Vegan Jasmine Rice and Chickpea Delight

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup jasmine rice
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Rice:
    • Rinse jasmine rice under cold water until water runs clear. In a saucepan, combine rice with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until rice is tender and water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics:
    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until fragrant and onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add Vegetables:
    • Add diced red bell pepper and zucchini to the skillet. Sauté for another 5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
  4. Spice it Up:
    • Stir in ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes until spices are fragrant.
  5. Simmer with Chickpeas:
    • Add drained chickpeas and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Let it simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes until flavors meld and sauce slightly thickens.
  6. Combine with Rice:
    • Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove from heat. Serve the jasmine rice onto plates or bowls and spoon the chickpea mixture over the rice.
  7. Garnish and Serve:
    • Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving. Enjoy your Vegan Jasmine Rice and Chickpea Delight!

Nutritional Information:

  • Calories: 320 kcal per serving
  • Protein: 9g
  • Fat: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 58g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 550mg

SmartPoints (WW): 7 SP per serving

Additional Tips:

  • For a lower SmartPoints option, use less olive oil or consider substituting with vegetable broth for sautéing.
  • You can customize this dish by adding other vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

This Vegan Jasmine Rice and Chickpea Delight recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients from the variety of vegetables and chickpeas. It’s a balanced meal suitable for vegans and anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful, plant-based dish. The combination of jasmine rice with the savory chickpea sauce provides a satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. With its moderate SmartPoints value, it’s a great addition to your healthy eating plan.