Introduction:
Balila is a traditional Lebanese dish that is enjoyed and celebrated throughout the Middle East specially Saudi Arabia that features chickpeas cooked in a flavorful broth with spices and herbs. This nutritious and filling dish can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish, and it’s easy to make with just a few simple ingredients. In this article, we will share with you the recipe for Balila, as well as some ideas for how to serve and enjoy it.
Ingredients:
To make Balila, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of cooked chickpeas
- 2 cups of vegetable broth or water
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the cooked chickpeas, vegetable broth or water, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the chickpeas are tender and the broth has thickened.
Serve the Balila hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Ideas for Serving and Enjoying Balila:
Balila is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some ideas for how to serve and enjoy this delicious Lebanese chickpea dish:
- Serve it as a main course with some pita bread and a side salad.
- Use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
- Serve it as a side dish with grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
- Top it with some crumbled feta cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess and tanginess.
- Add some chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions for a fresh and colorful salad.
Conclusion:
Balila is a nutritious and delicious Lebanese dish that is easy to make and versatile to enjoy. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a flavorful and filling meal that can be served in many ways. So go ahead and give it a try and experiment with different ideas for how to serve and enjoy Balila.
