Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful and Comforting: The combination of sweet paprika and fresh herbs creates a deeply flavorful sauce that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
- Quick and Easy: With a total cook time of just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Vegan-Friendly: This recipe offers a plant-based alternative to a classic dish, making it accessible for various dietary preferences.
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb. pasta
- 2 tbsp vegan butter, divided
- 3 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp sweet paprika
- 2 (15 oz.) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 2 cups crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup vegan sour cream
- 1/8 to 1/4 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Cook the Pasta: Prepare the pasta according to package instructions until al dente in salted water (use 2 tablespoons of kosher salt). Drain and transfer to a large mixing bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of vegan butter and fresh parsley, tossing to combine.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a pan over medium heat, add the onions, olive oil, remaining butter, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook on medium-low heat for 5 minutes until onions are softened.
- Add Flavorings: Incorporate the tomato paste and garlic powder into the pan. Stir and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
- Combine Chickpeas and Spices: Stir in the sweet paprika and chickpeas, ensuring they are well coated. Then, sprinkle in the flour and stir to combine.
- Build the Sauce: Pour in the vegetable broth, followed by the crushed tomatoes and vegan sour cream. Add red chili flakes if desired. Stir well to incorporate all ingredients.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 4-5 minutes, being careful not to let it boil.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, mix thoroughly, and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
- Spicier Version: Add more red chili flakes or use hot paprika to increase the heat level.
- Additional Vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth if needed to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
FAQs
What is Paprikash?
Paprikash is a traditional Hungarian dish known for its rich paprika-flavored sauce, typically made with meat and served over noodles or dumplings.
Can I use regular sour cream instead of vegan sour cream?
Yes, if you’re not adhering to a vegan diet, regular sour cream can be used as a substitute.
Is sweet paprika the same as regular paprika?
Sweet paprika is milder and sweeter compared to regular or smoked paprika, which can have a more intense flavor.
Can I freeze Chickpea Paprikash?
It’s not recommended to freeze this dish, as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing.
What type of pasta works best with this recipe?
Short pasta shapes like shells, penne, or fusilli are ideal as they hold the sauce well.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Increase the amount of red chili flakes or use hot paprika to add more heat.
Can I add other proteins to this dish?
While chickpeas are the main protein source here, adding tofu or tempeh could work well.
What can I serve with Chickpea Paprikash?
A simple green salad or steamed vegetables make excellent side dishes.
How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Ensure that the sauce is kept at a gentle simmer and avoid boiling after adding the sour cream.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, it’s flavorful without being too spicy, making it suitable for children.
Conclusion
Chickpea Paprikash offers a delicious and comforting meal that’s both easy to prepare and adaptable to various dietary needs. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a standout dish for any occasion.
Chickpea Paprikash
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Chickpea Paprikash is a vegan twist on traditional Hungarian Paprikash. With tender chickpeas in a creamy paprika-infused sauce served over pasta, this quick and comforting meal is perfect for weeknight dinners. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s packed with flavor and easy to customize for dietary preferences.
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb. pasta
- 2 tbsp vegan butter, divided
- 3 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp sweet paprika
- 2 (15 oz.) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 2 cups crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup vegan sour cream
- 1/8 to 1/4 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and toss with 1 tbsp vegan butter and parsley. Set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- Heat olive oil and remaining vegan butter in a pan over medium heat. Add onions, salt, and pepper. Cook until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Add Flavorings:
- Stir in tomato paste and garlic powder. Cook for 3 minutes to deepen the flavor.
- Combine Chickpeas and Spices:
- Add sweet paprika and chickpeas, stirring to coat. Sprinkle with flour and mix well.
- Build the Sauce:
- Pour in vegetable broth, crushed tomatoes, and vegan sour cream. Add red chili flakes if desired. Stir thoroughly.
- Simmer:
- Simmer gently for 4-5 minutes, ensuring the sauce doesn’t boil.
- Combine and Serve:
- Mix cooked pasta with the sauce, stir well, and serve warm.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta.
- To make it spicier, increase red chili flakes or use hot paprika.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat on low heat with a splash of broth to maintain sauce consistency.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Hungarian
