Pasta e Cici | Tuscan Pasta and Chickpeas Recipe
Indulge in the rustic charm of Tuscan cuisine with our hearty and flavorful Pasta e Cici. This traditional Italian delicacy brings together the earthiness of chickpeas, the tanginess of tomato paste, and the comforting allure of perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you're seeking a comforting weeknight meal or a taste of authentic Tuscany, this dish will undoubtedly satisfy your palate and transport you to the sun-soaked landscapes of Italy. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps with care, and savour the soulful flavours of Tuscan Pasta e Cici, bringing a touch of Italy to your table. Buon Appetito!
Ingredients
- 1 x white onion 200g / 7oz
- 2 x carrots 190g / 6.7oz
- 2 x garlic cloves
- 1 x sprig of rosemary
- 2 x tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 250 g / 8.8oz concentrated tomato puree
- 360 g / 12.7oz chickpeas garbanzo beans
- 240 g / 8.5oz pasta
- 1.2 litres / 1.2 quarts boiling water
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Prepare vegetables:
- Finely dice 1 white onion
- Peel and dice 2 average-sized carrots into medium dice
- Slice 2 garlic cloves in half and peel the papery skin off
- Prepare a sprig of rosemary
- Heat a large saucepan on medium to low heat, and add a couple of tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil.
- Add the garlic and rosemary, and sauté for 2 minutes, stirring regularly.
- Add the diced onions, carrots and a pinch of salt, and cook for 5 minutes, stirring regularly.
- Add 250g of concentrated tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add 360g of chickpeas and enough boiling water to cover. Cook for 5 minutes.
- Optional: Scoop out 1/5 of the mixture and set it aside.
- Add 240g of pasta of your choice, and enough boiling water to cover. Season heavily with salt and bring the pan to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, blend the reserved chickpeas mixture until smooth.
- Once pasta is cooked, add the blended chickpeas mixture to the saucepan and stir it in.
- Taste for seasoning and adjust consistency as necessary.