Moroccan Mushrooms and Chickpeas

I have no idea if Moroccans’ actually eat mushrooms and chickpeas like the way I’ve made them in this recipe. I seem to recall the origins of this dish came from a BBC Good Food Magazine recipe. Perhaps it’s the cumin, cinnamon and honey used in the dish that’s inspired from Morocco. Or the fact that chickpeas are often eaten in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean countries (think hummus and falafel). I simply don’t know. I’d love to visit the country. If I do, I’ll be sure to ask the locals if they eat mushrooms and chickpeas in this way.

Anyhow, the recipe, photos and nutritional information are below. It’s a really quick and easy dish to make and can be eaten with quinoa, rice, or my new favourite alternative – blended cauliflower – see previous Turkey Chili post if you have no idea what I’m talking about with regards to blended cauliflower. You can also spoon it on to a baked potato or eat it in a soft tortilla wrap.

As its low in calories (143 calories) and the serving size is fairly modest (approx. 250g/9oz), simply by itself, it also makes a great vegetable side dish.

Mushrooms are a low calorie, low sodium, no fat, no sugars, no cholesterol food which are also a good source of B vitamins and antioxidant selenium.
Chickpeas, also called garbanzo bean, are a great source of fiber and protein. They are low in fat and sugars and contain no cholesterol.

Moroccan Mushrooms and Chickpeas
Makes 4 servings

Ingredients:
- 110g / 4oz onion
- 1tsp cinnamon
- 1tsp cumin
- 1tsp paprika
- 185g / 6.6oz mushrooms
- 255g / 9oz / 1 can drained chickpeas
- 411g / 14.5oz / 1 can diced tomatoes (no added salt)
- 1tsbp honey
- 150g / 5.5oz broccoli
- 85g / 3oz frozen peas
- ground black pepper (optional)

Method:

Spray pan with cooking oil.
Chop onions and cook for 3 minutes, until brown.
Add spices and cook for 1 minute.

Add mushrooms and 1tbsp water, then cook for another minute.

Add drained can of chickpeas, tomatoes and ground black pepper, cook for 2-3 minutes.

Add vegetables and honey. Simmer for 15-20 mins until veg is tender.

ENJOY!

Nutritional Information: