Healthy Recipe of the Week: Chickpea Stew with Basil

Ingredients

• 2 Large Yellow or White Onions (Chopped)
• 1/3 Cup Water
• 6 Plum Tomatoes (Diced)
• 4 Cups Water
• 1/3 Cup Olive Oil
• 2 Tablespoons Finely Minced Lemongrass (Cut From the Bulb)
• 4 Cups Cooked Chickpeas
• 10 Fresh Basil Leaves (Chopped - For Garnish)
• 1 Tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice
• Sea Salt (Optional - To Desired Taste)
• Red Pepper Flakes
• Steamed, Shredded Chicken (Optional)
• Mixed Vegetables (ie - Green Beans, Carrots, Peas, etc.)
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Directions

• 1. In a heavy saucepan, cook the onions and 1/3 cup of water over low heat for 10 - 12 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add tomatoes, cover, and cook for 15 minutes or until very soft.
• 2. Meanwhile, bring the 4 cups of water, oil and lemongrass to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the softened onions, tomatoes, mixed vegetables and chickpeas. Immediately reduce the heat to medium-low. Mix well. Cover and simmer gently for 20 - 30 minutes, stirring occasionally until the flavors meld.
• 3. Gently stir the basil, lemon juice, salt and steamed, shredded chicken into the stew. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes and serve.