Imagine a dish that wraps you in the warmth and aroma of classic Italian cuisine, right from the first taste. This ceci beans recipe—also known as Italian chickpea stew—brings out the humble charm of ceci beans in a rich broth with a handful of simple ingredients. Perfect for a cozy meal, this dish offers an effortless way to enjoy nutritious flavors!
Ceci Beans Recipe
Cuisine: ItalianDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes1
hour280
kcalThis ceci beans recipe is a comforting, wholesome dish that showcases Italian flavors with minimal ingredients. With creamy chickpeas, aromatic herbs, and a savory broth, it’s the perfect balance of flavor and nutrition in every spoonful.
Ingredients
1 ½ cups dry ceci beans (chickpeas), soaked overnight
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp rosemary, finely chopped
1 bay leaf
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: ½ cup small pasta (for Pasta and Ceci Beans Recipe variation)
Directions
- Prep the Ceci Beans: Drain and rinse soaked ceci beans.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Cook the Beans: Add ceci beans, broth, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 45 minutes, or until beans are tender.
- Add Pasta (Optional): For a pasta version, add pasta and cook until al dente. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls, drizzle with extra olive oil if desired, and enjoy!
Notes
- Soak Beans: For best texture and easier digestion, soak ceci beans overnight.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary adds authentic Italian flavor and aroma.
- Customization: Adjust the broth for a soupier or thicker consistency as desired.
Tips for the perfect Ceci Beans Recipe
- If pressed for time, use canned chickpeas; reduce cooking time to about 20 minutes.
- Add grated Parmesan for extra richness and authentic Italian taste.
- Use a splash of lemon juice before serving to brighten flavors.
Recipe Variant
Pasta e Ceci Beans Recipe – Add small pasta like ditalini or elbow macaroni after the ceci beans are tender. Cook until the pasta is al dente for a thicker, stew-like version.
FAQ
Absolutely! If using canned chickpeas, drain and rinse them, and reduce cooking time to 20 minutes.
Use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the beans before adding pasta.
For a similar cozy dish, try the Taco Sauce Recipe that brings together spices and depth in every bite. Perfect as a topping or side!
This Ceci Beans Recipe is more than just a comforting meal—it’s a connection to traditional Italian kitchens, where simple, wholesome ingredients create flavors that linger long after the last bite. By slowly simmering ceci beans in a fragrant broth, this dish invites you to appreciate the rich history of Italian cuisine, where the focus remains on quality and freshness. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to Italian recipes, this dish offers a satisfying way to nourish both body and soul. For those who choose to add pasta, it transforms into a filling stew that’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
Enjoy the process of preparing it, and let it be a reminder that sometimes, the simplest meals bring the greatest joy.
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