Pasta e Ceci (Italian Chickpea and Pasta Stew)

Pasta e Ceci (Italian Chickpea and Pasta Stew): A Culinary Odyssey

Welcome to the heartwarming world of Pasta e Ceci, a classic Italian Chickpea and Pasta Stew that beckons you to embrace the rich tapestry of Italian flavors. In this gastronomic journey, we’ll delve into the art of creating this comforting dish, exploring its history, and providing you with a detailed guide to master this culinary masterpiece. From the golden hills of Tuscany to your kitchen, let’s embark on a journey of taste and tradition.

The Story Behind Pasta e Ceci

Pasta e Ceci, translating to Pasta and Chickpeas, is a time-honored Italian dish with roots tracing back to rustic kitchens and ancient traditions. Born out of simplicity, it showcases the art of transforming humble ingredients into a symphony of flavors. Chickpeas, a staple in the Mediterranean region, join forces with aromatic herbs, creating a robust stew that embodies the essence of Italian comfort food.

Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 cup dry chickpeas
  • 1 tablespoon baking soda
  • 1 yellow onion
  • 1 stalk celery
  • 1 small zucchini
  • 1 carrot
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 sprig fresh sage leaves
  • 1 sprig fresh rosemary
  • 1 sprig fresh thyme
  • 3 cups chicken broth, or more as needed
  • 2 peeled whole canned tomatoes
  • 8 1/2 ounces ditalini pasta, such as Barilla® Gluten-Free Ditalini
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 fresh cayenne pepper, seeded and minced, or more to taste
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

Instructions: Crafting the Perfect Harmony

Chickpea Awakening:

  1. Chickpea Soak:
    • Place the dry chickpeas in a bowl, covering them with water. Add baking soda, soak overnight, and rinse thoroughly.
  2. Veggie Symphony:
    • Dice onion, celery, zucchini, and carrot finely.
  3. Herb Elegance:
    • Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add sage, rosemary, and thyme. Sauté until aromatic.
  4. Vegetable Ballet:
    • Add diced vegetables to the pot. Sauté until softened.
  5. Chickpea Embrace:
    • Introduce soaked chickpeas to the pot, stirring to combine.
  6. Broth Infusion:
    • Pour in chicken broth and add whole peeled tomatoes. Simmer until chickpeas are tender.
  7. Pasta Performance:
    • Add ditalini pasta and cook until al dente.
  8. Seasoning Serenade:
    • Season with salt, black pepper, and minced cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.
  9. Olive Oil Finale:
    • Finish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for added richness.

Cook Notes and Variations

  • Chickpea Chef Tip:
    • If short on time, canned chickpeas can be substituted, reducing the cooking time.
  • Herbaceous Harmony:
    • Experiment with other fresh herbs like basil or oregano to customize the flavor profile.
  • Tomato Transformation:
    • Swap canned tomatoes for fresh, especially during peak tomato season.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

Keto Version

  • Cauliflower Comfort:
    • Replace chickpeas with cauliflower florets for a keto-friendly twist.

Low-Carb Version

  • Zoodle Adventure:
    • Substitute pasta with spiralized zucchini for a low-carb alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use canned chickpeas?

Absolutely! Canned chickpeas can be a convenient alternative. Ensure to drain and rinse them before adding to the stew.

Q2: What’s the significance of baking soda in soaking chickpeas?

Baking soda helps soften chickpeas, reducing their cooking time and enhancing their texture.

Q3: Can I make this stew in advance?

Certainly! The flavors deepen upon resting, making it an excellent dish to prepare ahead of time.

Q4: What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

Dried herbs can be substituted, but reduce the quantity by half, as they are more potent than fresh herbs.

Q5: Is Pasta e Ceci gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free by choosing gluten-free pasta.

A Culinary Symphony

Pasta e Ceci isn’t just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors, a homage to tradition, and a warm embrace from Italy’s culinary heritage. Whether you savor it as a comforting weeknight meal or showcase it at a festive gathering, this stew promises to be a soul-soothing experience. With variations to suit keto and low-carb preferences, everyone can partake in the joy of this Italian classic. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the spirit of Italian cooking, and savor the delightful symphony of Pasta e Ceci!