Lunch: Chickpea Bajane Recipe | MyRecipes

Recipe by Jeanne Kelley Bajane is a Provençal term for the midday meal. Chickpeas are a staple in Provence, where they are often stewed and served with pasta and vegetables. In this version, chickpeas, leeks, carrots, fennel, and spinach are served atop

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Lemon, Spinach

Health benefits of Chickpea Bajane Recipe | MyRecipes

Lemons can help to prevent oxidative damage to the body, which women with PCOS are often susceptible to. Lemons are also rich in vitamin C, flavonoids, and other antioxidants. They can potentially support the immune system and have other health benefits. Lemons also have a low glycemic index, so they should not cause a rapid rise in blood sugar when consumed in natural form. Spinach is a nutrient-dense leafy green vegetable that is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron, magnesium, and antioxidants. The high iron content in spinach helps combat anemia, which is common in women with PCOS. Magnesium helps reduce inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity. The antioxidants in spinach can help lower oxidative stress, which is beneficial for managing PCOS symptoms. Including spinach in your diet can support overall health and well-being.

Ingredients

4 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
1 garlic clove, minced
2 cups organic vegetable broth, divided {Check for Gluten}
1 cup water
1 cup uncooked quinoa
5 1/2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme, divided
1/2 teaspoon salt, divided
2 cups thinly sliced leek (about 1 large)
4 garlic cloves, chopped
2 1/2 cups sliced fennel bulb (about 1 large)
1 3/4 cups (1/4-inch-thick) slices carrot (about 3/4 pound)
1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
1/2 cup white wine
1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added chickpeas (garbanzo beans), rinsed and drained
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 (6-ounce) package fresh baby spinach

Instructions

Heat 2 teaspoons oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add 1 minced garlic clove to pan; sauté 1 minute. Add 1 cup broth, 1 cup water, quinoa, 1 1/2 teaspoons thyme, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and quinoa is tender. Remove from heat; fluff with a fork.
Heat 1 teaspoon oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add leek and 4 chopped garlic cloves to pan; sauté 5 minutes or until tender. Add remaining 1 teaspoon oil, fennel bulb, carrot, and fennel seeds; sauté 10 minutes or until vegetables are golden. Add wine; cook 3 minutes or until liquid almost evaporates. Stir in remaining 1 cup broth, 2 teaspoons thyme, and chickpeas; cook 1 minute or until thoroughly heated. Remove from heat; stir in juice, remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt, pepper, and spinach.
Place about 2/3 cup quinoa in each of 4 bowls; top each serving with about 1 1/2 cups chickpea mixture. Sprinkle each serving with 1/2 teaspoon thyme.