Circassian-style Spiced Chickpea Salad

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the original Chinese Liangban doufugan is transformed into a Circassian-style salad by incorporating Circassian spices and flavors. The traditional Chinese ingredients are replaced with chickpeas as the main component, and the dressing is made with yogurt instead of the original Chinese sauce. The addition of aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika gives the dish a distinct Circassian twist. We alse have the original recipe for Liangban doufugan, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) cooked chickpeas 2 cups (400g) cooked chickpeas
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup (120g) plain yogurt 1/2 cup (120g) plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 4g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 29g, 5g
• Protein: 9g
• Fiber: 8g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the cooked chickpeas, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the chickpeas evenly with the spices.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt, lemon juice, and minced garlic until well combined.
3. 3.
   Pour the yogurt dressing over the spiced chickpeas and toss gently to coat.
4. 4.
   Sprinkle the chopped parsley and mint over the salad and toss again to distribute the herbs evenly.
5. 5.
   Serve the Circassian-style Spiced Chickpea Salad chilled or at room temperature.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chickpeas — If using canned chickpeas, make sure to rinse them thoroughly before using to remove any excess sodium. If cooking chickpeas from scratch, soak them overnight and then boil until tender.
• Yogurt — Opt for a thick and creamy yogurt for the dressing. Greek yogurt works well in this recipe.

Tips & Tricks

• For added crunch, you can sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or chopped almonds over the salad before serving.
• Adjust the amount of spices according to your preference for a milder or spicier flavor.
• If you prefer a creamier dressing, you can add a tablespoon of tahini to the yogurt dressing.

Serving advice

Serve the Circassian-style Spiced Chickpea Salad as a refreshing appetizer or as a side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables. It pairs well with warm pita bread or as a topping for a bed of fresh salad greens.

Presentation advice

Garnish the salad with a sprinkle of paprika and a few whole mint leaves to add a pop of color. Serve it in a shallow bowl or on a platter to showcase the vibrant colors of the chickpeas and herbs.