Basmati Rice, Chickpeas & Toasted Almonds

Basmati Rice with Chickpeas & Toasted Almonds is a delicious and nutritious vegetarian dish that is perfect for a simple dinner or as a side dish. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup basmati rice
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup slivered almonds
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, cilantro or mint for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the basmati rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
  2. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
  3. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir well.
  4. Cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat to low.
  5. Simmer the rice for 18-20 minutes, or until the water has been absorbed and the rice is tender.
  6. While the rice is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat.
  7. Add the slivered almonds to the skillet and toast them, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and fragrant.
  8. Remove the almonds from the skillet and set them aside.
  9. In the same skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  10. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
  11. Add the drained and rinsed chickpeas to the skillet and stir well.
  12. Cook the chickpeas until they are heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
  13. When the rice is done, remove it from the heat and let it sit for 5 minutes.
  14. Fluff the rice with a fork and add the chickpeas and garlic mixture to the rice.
  15. Stir the chickpeas and garlic mixture into the rice until it’s evenly distributed.
  16. Season the Basmati Rice with Chickpeas & Toasted Almonds with salt and pepper to taste.
  17. Garnish the rice with the toasted slivered almonds and chopped fresh herbs if desired.

This Basmati Rice with Chickpeas & Toasted Almonds is a delicious and easy vegetarian dish that is perfect for a quick and healthy meal. It’s also versatile and can be paired with a variety of dishes, such as grilled vegetables, roasted chicken, or a fresh salad. Enjoy!