Are you craving a vibrant, flavorful dish that's both easy to make and incredibly healthy? Then look no further! This Elixir of Jerusalem, a delicious and satisfying vegetarian stew, is the perfect quick dinner idea for busy weeknights. Packed with fresh vegetables and fragrant spices, it's a culinary journey to the heart of the Middle East, bringing a taste of homemade cooking to your table. This recipe is perfect for those looking for healthy meals, easy recipes, and delicious dishes that won't take hours to prepare.
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 4 and can easily be doubled or halved depending on your needs.
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp turmeric
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked quinoa or couscous (for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add the Vegetables: Add the chopped bell peppers to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened.
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Build the Flavor: Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), chickpeas, vegetable broth, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Simmer to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, garnish the Elixir of Jerusalem with fresh chopped parsley. Serve hot over cooked quinoa or couscous for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips for the Best Elixir of Jerusalem:
- Spice it Up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preference. If you enjoy a spicier dish, feel free to add more.
- Add Some Greens: Throw in a handful of spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking for an extra boost of nutrients.
- Make it Meaty: For a non-vegetarian variation, add cooked cubed lamb or chicken during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Slow Cooker Option: This recipe is also perfect for a slow cooker! Sauté the onions and garlic as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Nutritional Information (per serving, without quinoa/couscous):
This is an approximate value and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 10-12g
- Fiber: Approximately 10-12g
This Elixir of Jerusalem is a testament to the power of simple, fresh ingredients. It’s a delicious and healthy option, perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual weekend gathering. Enjoy this best recipe and let us know your thoughts in the comments below! We love hearing from our readers and seeing your culinary creations. Happy cooking!