Greek Style Revithia Sto Fourno – Chickpeas with Caramelized Onions Recipe
Description:
The Greek Style Revithia Sto Fourno, or Chickpeas with Caramelized Onions, is a heartwarming, flavorful one-pot meal perfect for a satisfying lunch. This dish brings together tender chickpeas, slow-cooked in their own juices, with the richness of caramelized onions and fragrant rosemary. Paired with toasted pita or crusty bread, it becomes a delightful and healthy meal. The unique aspect of this dish is the cooking method where the chickpeas simmer in the reserved boiling liquid, creating a rich, deeply infused flavor profile. A simple yet delicious way to enjoy the essence of Greek cuisine in every bite!
Cuisine: Greek
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Kala Chana (Brown Chickpeas) | 1 cup (soaked and boiled until tender) |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, crushed |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1/2 cup |
| Water (Reserved boiling liquid from chickpeas) | 2 cups |
| Rosemary | 1 tablespoon, chopped |
| Salt | 2 teaspoons |
| Black Pepper Powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Caramelized Onions | 1 cup |
Preparation Time
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 40 minutes |
| Cook Time | 45 minutes |
Instructions
-
Soak the Chickpeas:
Begin by soaking the kala chana (brown chickpeas) in water for at least 8 hours or overnight to ensure they are soft and ready for cooking. -
Pressure Cook the Chickpeas:
Once soaked, add the chickpeas to a pressure cooker along with water. Cook for about 5 whistles and then allow the pressure to release naturally. This method ensures the chickpeas are tender and flavorful, soaking up the water they were boiled in, which will later infuse the dish with richness. -
Caramelize the Onions:
While the chickpeas are cooking, heat a ceramic crock pot with extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions along with a pinch of sugar to aid in the caramelization process. Sauté for about 15 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions are golden brown and sweetly fragrant. Remove from the pot and set aside. -
Sauté Garlic and Combine Ingredients:
In the same crock pot, add the crushed garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then, add in the boiled chickpeas along with the rosemary, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine, ensuring the chickpeas are coated with the garlic and seasonings. -
Simmer:
Pour the reserved boiling water from the chickpeas into the pot. Stir the mixture gently to combine, then check for seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper if needed. Allow this mixture to simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes, or until most of the liquid has evaporated, leaving behind a deliciously thickened chickpea sauce. -
Final Touches:
Just before serving, top the simmering chickpeas with the caramelized onions. This will add sweetness and depth to the dish, enhancing its overall flavor. -
Serve:
Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve the Greek Style Revithia Sto Fourno – Chickpeas with Caramelized Onions with warm pita bread or a fresh salad of chopped spinach and pomegranate for a vibrant and healthy lunch option.
Serving Suggestion:
For an authentic Greek lunch experience, serve this dish with warm pita bread and a side of Chopped Spinach and Pomegranate Salad. The refreshing salad complements the rich flavors of the chickpeas, making for a complete and satisfying meal.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
| Nutrient | Value per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400-450 kcal |
| Protein | 14-16 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 60-65 grams |
| Fat | 20-25 grams |
| Fiber | 10-12 grams |
| Sodium | 500-600 mg |
| Iron | 3-4 mg |
Tips for the Perfect Greek Style Revithia Sto Fourno:
-
Soaking the Chickpeas: Soaking the chickpeas overnight ensures that they cook faster and become tender. If you’re in a rush, you can use a quick soak method: bring the chickpeas to a boil in water for 5 minutes, then remove from heat and let them sit for 1 hour before cooking.
-
Caramelized Onions: The key to great caramelized onions is patience. Let them cook slowly, stirring occasionally to prevent burning, until they become soft and deep brown. The sweetness of the onions really elevates the dish.
-
Adjusting Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the amount of rosemary, black pepper, and salt to suit your personal taste. If you prefer a more herby flavor, add a little extra rosemary or even a pinch of thyme.
Enjoy this delightful Greek dish, full of hearty chickpeas, rich caramelized onions, and the bright freshness of herbs. Perfect for a light but fulfilling lunch that will bring a taste of Greece to your table!
