This Cabbage with Chickpeas and Tahini Dressing is a flavorful, plant-based dish that’s both hearty and nutritious. The roasted cabbage provides a tender base, while the savory chickpea and tomato topping, along with the creamy tahini dressing, adds a burst of flavor. This recipe is not only satisfying but also rich in fiber and protein, making it a great main course or side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
For the Cabbage:
- 1 lb (400 g) cabbage (baby or regular)
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon mixed dried herbs (optional)
For the Chickpea Topping:
- 1 cup (200 g) cooked chickpeas (about 5 oz)
- 1 medium leek or onion, sliced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 cup (200 g) chopped tomatoes (canned or fresh, about 7 oz)
- 1 tablespoon date syrup or sugar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon allspice
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
For the Tahini Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons (45 g) tahini
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2-3 tablespoons water (as needed for consistency)
- Salt, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cabbage
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the cabbage into wedges or thick slices, keeping the core intact so the slices hold together. This helps the cabbage maintain its shape during roasting.
- Place the cabbage slices on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Brush each slice with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. If you like, you can also sprinkle mixed dried herbs over the cabbage for added flavor.
- Roast the cabbage for 20-25 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through, until tender and slightly charred on the edges. The charring adds a delicious, smoky flavor to the cabbage.
2. Prepare the Chickpea Topping
- While the cabbage is roasting, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced leek (or onion) and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the cooked chickpeas, chopped tomatoes, allspice, paprika, and salt to taste. If you want a slight sweetness to balance the dish, add 1 tablespoon of date syrup or sugar at this stage.
- Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld together. The chickpeas should absorb the spices, creating a flavorful topping for the cabbage.
3. Make the Tahini Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of tahini, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt to taste.
- Gradually add 2-3 tablespoons of water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches your desired consistency. You want it to be creamy yet pourable. Adjust the salt and lemon juice to taste for a perfect balance of flavors.
4. Assemble the Dish
- Once the cabbage is roasted, place the wedges or slices on a large serving plate.
- Spoon the chickpea and tomato mixture generously over the top of the cabbage slices.
- Drizzle the dish with the tahini dressing, ensuring each wedge is covered for a rich, creamy flavor.
- For added color and flavor, garnish with a sprinkle of extra paprika or some freshly chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro.
5. Serve
This dish is best served warm. The tender roasted cabbage, combined with the savory chickpea mixture and creamy tahini dressing, makes for a deliciously balanced meal. Whether enjoyed as a main course or a side dish, this recipe is sure to impress. Pair it with a side of pita bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 280
- Total Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Dietary Fiber: 8 g
- Sugars: 5 g
- Protein: 7 g
Tips for Success
- Cabbage Variety: You can use regular cabbage or baby cabbage for this dish. If using regular cabbage, choose a medium-sized head for ease of slicing. Baby cabbage works well for individual portions.
- Chickpea Topping Variations: Add extra vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers to the chickpea mixture for more texture and nutrients.
- Tahini Dressing: Adjust the consistency of the dressing to your liking. For a thicker dressing, use less water; for a thinner, more drizzled consistency, add more water. You can also experiment by adding a dash of cumin or cayenne pepper to the dressing for extra spice.
- Make Ahead: You can roast the cabbage and prepare the chickpea topping in advance. Simply reheat and assemble the dish when ready to serve. The tahini dressing can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
This Cabbage with Chickpeas and Tahini Dressing is a versatile and wholesome meal that’s full of flavor and texture. The combination of roasted cabbage, spiced chickpeas, and creamy tahini dressing creates a harmonious blend of tastes that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Enjoy this nutritious dish any time of the year!