Shimbra Wat: Chickpeas with spicy flaxseed paste recipe

Ingredients for Shimbra wat (chickpeas with spicy flaxseed paste)

• 45 g brown or golden flaxseed

• 45 ml awaze dipping sauce

• 400 g cooked or canned chickpeas, drained, rinsed

• salt

How to make Shimbra wat (chickpeas with spicy flaxseed paste)

1. Heat a small dry frying pan over medium-low heat. Add the flaxseed and lightly dry-toast for about 2 minutes, stirring and shaking the pan, until aromatic. Transfer to a dish and leave to cool.

2. Once cool, grind the flaxseed using an electric spice or coffee grinder.

3. In a casserole dish or large lidded pan, heat 30 ml (2 tablespoons) of water over low heat and stir in 15 ml (1 tablespoon) of the awaze. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring continuously.

4. Gradually incorporate the remaining 30 ml (2 tablespoons) of awaze, along with the ground flaxseed and 250 ml of water. Reduce the heat to its lowest setting, cover, and cook, stirring frequently, for 20 minutes.

5. Add a touch more water if the mixture appears to be drying out—it should remain slightly runny at the end.

6. Meanwhile, place the chickpeas in a saucepan and cover with 500 ml of water. Bring to a boil, then remove from the heat and soak in the liquid until ready to use.

7. Drain the chickpeas, reserving about 240 ml of the cooking liquid.

8. Add the chickpeas to the awaze-flaxseed mixture, season generously with salt, and mix well.

9. If needed, stir in some of the reserved cooking water to ensure the sauce is slightly runny and evenly coats the chickpeas.

10. Cook for a couple of minutes to combine the flavours before serving.

Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.