Introduction to Chickpea Dishes

The Greek island of Ikaria is renowned for its rich vegetable dishes, many of which feature an abundance of legumes, often braised in olive oil with tomatoes. This culinary tradition not only highlights the versatility of chickpeas but also showcases the island’s unique approach to flavor, combining citrus and sugar, typically in the form of honey, to create a sweet-savory profile that elevates simple dishes into extraordinary ones.

The Role of Citrus and Honey

Citrus and honey are pivotal elements in Ikarian cuisine, adding depth and complexity to various dishes. The use of citrus, particularly orange zest and juice, brings a bright, refreshing note, while honey contributes a rich, sweetness that balances out the savory flavors of the chickpeas and tomatoes. This harmonious balance of flavors is a hallmark of Greek cooking, especially in dishes like the ultra-simple yet remarkably delicious chickpea recipe introduced by Greek cooking expert Diane Kochilas.

Simplifying Traditional Recipes

The original recipe for chickpeas layered with tomatoes, herbs, orange, and honey, baked for a couple of hours to meld and concentrate the flavors, is a testament to the patience and dedication required in traditional Greek cooking. However, for a quicker alternative that retains the rich, complex flavors, simmering canned chickpeas on the stovetop with similar ingredients offers a convenient solution. This approach, outlined in the recipe from “Milk Street 365: The All-Purpose Cookbook for Every Day of the Year,” achieves a delicious and satisfying dish in under an hour.

Reserving Chickpea Liquid

A crucial step in preparing this dish is reserving some of the chickpea liquid before draining. This liquid is essential for lending the dish body and flavor that water cannot replicate. It’s a simple yet often overlooked detail that significantly impacts the final product’s quality and authenticity.

Choosing the Right Honey

The choice of honey can also influence the dish’s overall flavor profile. A strong, dark honey like buckwheat is recommended for its deep, rich flavor, but milder varieties can also be used. Orange blossom honey, with its subtle citrus notes, is particularly well-suited, as it complements the orange zest and juice beautifully. Serving the dish with crusty bread and briny feta on the side enhances the experience, offering a satisfying contrast of textures and flavors.

Greek-Style Braised Chickpeas with Tomatoes and Orange

Start to finish: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more to serve
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons honey, divided
• Three 15½-ounce cans chickpeas, drained, ¼ cup liquid reserved
• 28-ounce can diced tomatoes
• 1 medium red onion, halved and thinly sliced
• 3 medium garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 5 bay leaves
• 1 sprig fresh rosemary
• 1 teaspoon grated orange zest, plus ¼ cup orange juice
• Kosher salt and ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
• ½ cup lightly packed fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped

Directions:

1. In a large Dutch oven over medium, combine the oil, tomato paste, and 1 tablespoon of the honey. Cook, stirring often, until the tomato paste begins to brown, 6 to 7 minutes. Stir in the chickpeas, then stir in the tomatoes with their juices. Bring to a simmer over medium-high and cook, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has evaporated, 10 to 12 minutes.
2. Stir in the onion, garlic, bay, rosemary, orange juice, ¾ teaspoon each salt and pepper, and the reserved chickpea liquid. Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook over medium-low, stirring occasionally, until the onion has softened, 12 to 15 minutes.
3. Remove from the heat, then taste and season with salt and pepper. Stir in the oregano and orange zest. Transfer to a serving bowl. Sprinkle with parsley, then drizzle with the remaining honey and additional oil.

Conclusion

Placing chickpeas at the center of the plate, especially when combined with the vibrant flavors of citrus and the warmth of honey, offers a culinary experience that is both satisfying and enlightening. This Greek-inspired recipe for braised chickpeas with tomatoes and orange not only celebrates the versatility of legumes but also underscores the importance of balance and harmony in cooking. By embracing the simplicity and richness of traditional Greek cuisine, we can create dishes that are not only delicious but also deeply rooted in culture and tradition.

FAQs

• Q: What is the significance of reserving chickpea liquid in the recipe?
  • Reserving some of the chickpea liquid before draining is crucial because it adds body and flavor to the dish that water cannot replicate.
• Q: Can I use any type of honey for this recipe?
  • While any honey can be used, a strong, dark honey like buckwheat or a citrus-echoing honey like orange blossom is recommended for the depth and complexity they add to the dish.
• Q: How can I serve Greek-Style Braised Chickpeas with Tomatoes and Orange?
  • Serving the dish with crusty bread and briny feta on the side is recommended, as it offers a satisfying contrast of textures and flavors.