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Cajun Orzo with Chickpeas in One Pot Recipe

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4.3 from 90 reviews

A flavorful and comforting one-pot Cajun Orzo Chickpeas recipe that combines the warmth of Cajun spices with tender orzo pasta and protein-rich chickpeas. Perfect for a quick and easy meal with minimal cleanup, this dish is versatile and can accommodate various vegetables and herbs to suit your taste.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste (or minced ginger and garlic or just garlic)
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun spice blend
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup (or 1 tablespoon tomato paste)
  • 1 1/2 cups water (or broth or a mix of coconut milk and water)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 15 ounce can of chickpeas, drained (or 1 1/2 cups cooked chickpeas)
  • 1/2 cup dry orzo

Optional Additions

  • 1 cup vegetables of choice, or 1/2 cup frozen spinach
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

  1. Heat the oil and cook onions: Heat 2 teaspoons of oil or 2 tablespoons broth in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion with a pinch of salt and cook until translucent, adding splashes of water as needed to prevent sticking and to help the onions cook evenly.
  2. Add spices and flavorings: Stir in the ginger-garlic paste, Cajun spice blend, and ketchup. Mix well for a few seconds to combine the flavors. If using vegetables, add them now and cook for about one minute.
  3. Add liquids and bring to boil: Pour in the broth or water and add the salt. Bring the mixture to a boil to prepare for cooking the orzo and chickpeas.
  4. Add chickpeas and orzo: Mix in the drained chickpeas and dry orzo. Stir to distribute ingredients evenly in the skillet.
  5. Simmer covered: Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 7 to 10 minutes over medium heat, stirring once or twice to prevent the orzo from sticking. Check the texture at 7-8 minutes; if you prefer a saucier dish, add 1/4 cup or more coconut milk at this stage. Continue cooking covered until orzo is tender.
  6. Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, Cajun seasoning, tang, or herbs as desired to enhance the flavor.
  7. Let flavors meld: Once cooked, let the dish sit covered for an additional 2 minutes to allow the spices to infuse fully and flavors to meld.
  8. Serve and garnish: Stir the dish well and transfer to serving bowls. Garnish with chopped onions, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice before serving.

Notes

  • Use vegetable broth instead of oil for lower fat content.
  • Adjust the amount of Cajun spice to your heat preference.
  • Optional vegetables like spinach or bell peppers add color and nutrients.
  • If you prefer a creamier texture, add coconut milk while cooking or as a finishing touch.
  • Stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the pan.
  • This recipe is vegan and vegetarian friendly.

Find it online: https://deliciousyum.com/cajun-orzo-with-chickpeas-in-one-pot-recipe/