Spicy Chickpeas Penne Pasta with Shiro Sauce: A Flavorful and Nutritious Delight

Welcome to AbyssiniaEats, where we bring you delicious recipes that fuse traditional Ethiopian flavors with modern culinary trends. Today, we’re excited to share a fantastic recipe for Spicy Chickpeas Penne Pasta with Shiro Sauce. This dish is not only hearty and satisfying but also packed with protein and rich flavors.

What is Shiro?

Shiro holds a vital cultural significance in Ethiopian cuisine, where it serves as a hearty meatless alternative, allowing individuals to maintain a balanced diet while adhering to dietary restrictions. Its rich flavors and comforting texture make it a favorite among families. Shiro wot is often enjoyed with injera, a traditional sourdough flatbread. Nutritionally, shiro is packed with protein and fiber, primarily derived from chickpeas, making it a wholesome choice for vegetarians and vegans. It also provides essential vitamins and minerals, supporting overall health while being a satisfying option for various meal occasions.

Key Ingredients for Spicy Chickpeas Penne Pasta

• 1/3 Cup Olive Oil
• 1 Tablespoon Green Chili, Minced
• 1 Finely Chopped Onion
• 1 Tablespoon Tomato Paste
• 1 Cup Finely Diced Tomatoes
• Salt, to taste
• Black Pepper, to taste
• 2-3 Cloves Garlic, Minced
• 1 Cup Organic Tomato Sauce
• About 2 Teaspoons Shiro
• 1 Cup Heavy Cream
• Fresh Basil, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Start by cooking one box of high-protein penne pasta. For this recipe I used penne pasta made from chickpeas and yellow peas. Bring a pot of water to a boil, add salt, and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Sauté Vegetables: Add the minced green chilies and finely chopped onions to the pan. Sauté until the onions become translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Season the Mixture: Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt and minced garlic to the pan, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
5. Add Fresh Ingredients: Stir in the finely diced tomatoes and cook until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Incorporate Tomato Paste: Add the tomato paste and mix well, ensuring it is fully integrated into the vegetable mixture. Use pasta water as needed to prevent sticking.
7. Combine Sauces: Pour in the organic tomato sauce and stir to combine.
8. Add Shiro: Mix in the shiro, adjusting the amount based on your spice preference. If the sauce is too thick, use hot water or pasta water as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
9. Creamy Finish: Slowly add the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes on low heat to thicken slightly.
10. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce, ensuring it is evenly coated.
11. Serve and Garnish: Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil for a burst of flavor and color.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious and Flavorful: This dish combines the health benefits of chickpeas with the rich flavors of Ethiopian spices, making it a wholesome meal.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal ingredients, you can create a delicious dinner in no time.
• Vegan and Gluten-Free Option: By using chickpea pasta, this dish is suitable for those following vegan or gluten-free diets.

Conclusion

This Spicy Chickpeas Penne Pasta with Shiro Sauce is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of Ethiopia while indulging in a hearty pasta dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.

Don’t forget to share your culinary creations with us at AbyssiniaEats! We’d love to see how your Spicy Chickpeas Penne Pasta turned out. Happy cooking! Also check my previous Spicy Penne Arrabbiata with Berbere Recipe and My Vegan Spaghetti Bolognese Using Difin Misir