Pasta e Ceci (Italian Chickpea and Pasta Stew)

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Pasta e Ceci, also known as Italian Chickpea and Pasta Stew, is a classic Italian dish that is both comforting and delicious. This hearty stew features tender chickpeas, flavorful vegetables, and al dente pasta, all simmered in a savory broth. It’s a perfect meal for those chilly evenings when you crave something warm and satisfying.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients
3. Directions
4. Nutrition Facts
5. Reviews
6. Photos
7. Variations
8. Tips and Tricks
9. Health Benefits
10. History
11. FAQs
12. Conclusion

Introduction

Pasta e Ceci is a beloved dish in Italy, known for its simplicity and heartiness. It has been a staple in Italian households for generations, offering both nourishment and comfort. The combination of chickpeas and pasta creates a satisfying and filling meal that is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

To make Pasta e Ceci, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup dry chickpeas
• 1 tablespoon baking soda
• 1 yellow onion
• 1 stalk celery
• 1 small zucchini
• 1 carrot
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 sprig fresh sage leaves
• 1 sprig fresh rosemary
• 1 sprig fresh thyme
• 3 cups chicken broth (or more as needed)
• 2 peeled whole canned tomatoes
• 8 1/2 ounces ditalini pasta
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 fresh cayenne pepper, seeded and minced (optional)
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

Directions

Follow these steps to prepare Pasta e Ceci:

1. Rinse the chickpeas under cool water and remove any debris.
2. Place the chickpeas in a large stew pot and cover them with water. Add baking soda and swirl to distribute it. Let the chickpeas soak for 8 hours or overnight.
3. The next day, pour the chickpeas through a strainer and rinse them well under cold running water. Remove any skins or discolored chickpeas.
4. Grate the onion, celery, zucchini, and carrot using the large teeth of a cheese grater. This step adds a unique flavor to the stew.
5. Heat olive oil in the stew pot over medium heat. Sauté the grated vegetables for 1 minute. Add sage, rosemary, and thyme and sauté until onions are soft and translucent.
6. Add chicken broth, chickpeas, and tomatoes to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the chickpeas are tender.
7. Stir in the ditalini pasta and cook until it is tender with a slight bite.
8. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
9. Remove the stew from heat and divide it among serving bowls.
10. Top each bowl with minced cayenne pepper (if desired) and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil.

Nutrition Facts

Here are the nutrition facts for Pasta e Ceci per serving:

• Calories: 378
• Fat: 10g
• Carbs: 59g
• Protein: 14g
• Sodium: 1172mg
• Dietary Fiber: 8g
• Total Sugars: 10g
• Vitamin C: 21mg
• Calcium: 61mg
• Iron: 3mg
• Potassium: 741mg

Reviews

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Photos

Check out these mouthwatering photos of Pasta e Ceci:

Variations

While the classic recipe for Pasta e Ceci is delicious on its own, feel free to experiment with variations and add your own twist to the dish. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Add diced pancetta or bacon for a smoky flavor.
• Substitute the ditalini pasta with your favorite pasta shape.
• Include additional vegetables like spinach, kale, or bell peppers.
• Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Tips and Tricks

To enhance the flavors and textures of your Pasta e Ceci, consider the following tips and tricks:

• Soak the chickpeas overnight to ensure they cook evenly and become tender.
• Grating the vegetables adds a unique taste to the stew, but you can also dice them if you prefer.
• Use high-quality ingredients, such as extra virgin olive oil and fresh herbs, for the best flavor.
• Adjust the consistency of the stew by adding more chicken broth if needed.
• Allow the stew to simmer on low heat for a longer time to develop richer flavors.

Health Benefits

Pasta e Ceci offers several health benefits due to its nutritious ingredients. Here are a few:

• Chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, making them a great addition to a vegetarian or vegan diet.
• The vegetables in the stew provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health.
• The ditalini pasta adds carbohydrates, which provide energy and help you feel full and satisfied.

History

Pasta e Ceci has a rich history in Italian cuisine. It has been enjoyed by Italians for centuries and is often associated with traditional comfort food. The dish has its roots in peasant cooking, where simple and affordable ingredients were used to create delicious and filling meals.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dry ones? Yes, you can use canned chickpeas if you’re short on time. However, using dry chickpeas and soaking them overnight will yield the best results in terms of texture and flavor.
2. Can I make this stew vegetarian or vegan? Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit any animal-based ingredients like bacon or pancetta.
3. How long can I store leftovers? You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
4. Can I freeze Pasta e Ceci? Yes, you can freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags.