Curried Millet and Chickpea Reunion is a flavorful and satisfying plant-based dish that brings together the hearty textures of millet and chickpeas with the aromatic spices of curry. It's a perfect meal for a cozy night in or a quick and easy lunch on the go.
The origins of Curried Millet and Chickpea Reunion can be traced back to the bustling streets of Mumbai, where the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine fill the air. It was in the kitchens of a humble street food vendor that this dish was first created, as a way to utilize leftover millet and chickpeas. The vendor, known for his culinary ingenuity, experimented with various spices until he stumbled upon the perfect balance of curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. The result was a dish that was both flavorful and filling, and it quickly became a favorite among the locals. Word of the Curried Millet and Chickpea Reunion spread throughout the city and beyond, and it soon became a staple in homes and restaurants alike. Today, it remains a beloved dish that is enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds.
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 30 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
1 cup millet
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup cooked chickpeas
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
Rinse the millet in a fine-mesh sieve.
In a medium saucepan, combine the millet and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the millet is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
While the millet is cooking, heat a little olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
Stir in the curry powder, cumin, and turmeric and cook for 1 minute more.
Add the chickpeas to the skillet and cook until heated through.
Stir the cooked millet into the chickpea mixture.
Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve.
Why It Works
Millet is a highly nutritious grain that is rich in fiber, protein, and iron. It has a slightly nutty flavor and a chewy texture that pairs well with the chickpeas.
Chickpeas are a good source of protein, fiber, and folate. They have a mild flavor that takes on the flavors of the spices they are cooked with.
Curry powder is a blend of spices that typically includes turmeric, cumin, coriander, fenugreek, and red chili pepper. It gives the dish its characteristic yellow color and warm, aromatic flavor.
Cumin is a warm, earthy spice that adds a depth of flavor to the dish.
Turmeric is a bright yellow spice that has a slightly bitter and peppery flavor. It is also a powerful antioxidant.
Cilantro is a fresh herb that adds a bright, citrusy flavor to the dish.