Savory Chickpea Tahini Bake with Brown Rice
Indulge in this hearty and satisfying Savory Chickpea Tahini Bake, a decadent yet wholesome vegan casserole that brings warmth and comfort to your table. This dish combines protein-packed chickpeas, fragrant herbs, and creamy tahini in a sumptuous blend nestled atop a bed of nutty brown rice. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this versatile casserole welcomes variations—feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices. With every bite, enjoy a delightful balance of textures and flavors that will leave your taste buds cheering for more!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Chickpeas
2 cans (15-22.5 ounces each) (drained and rinsed)
Brown rice
3-4 cups (cooked)
Diced tomatoes
1 can (28 ounces) (undrained)
White onion
1 medium (chopped)
Garlic powder
1 teaspoon (or equivalent fresh garlic)
Dried oregano
1 teaspoon (or equivalent fresh)
Dried basil
1 teaspoon (or equivalent fresh)
Dried parsley
1-2 teaspoons (or equivalent fresh)
Tahini
3 tablespoons (none)
Water
3 tablespoons (none)
Toasted sesame seeds
1 tablespoon (optional)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
In a small bowl, whisk together tahini and water until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly fluffy. Set aside.
3
Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
4
In the prepared dish, combine the drained chickpeas, cooked brown rice, undrained diced tomatoes, chopped onion, and all the spices (garlic powder, oregano, basil, and parsley). Mix well to ensure even distribution.
5
Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, continuing to mix until well combined.
6
Carefully pour the tahini mixture over the casserole and stir to incorporate it throughout the dish.
7
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the mixture is bubbly.
8
If desired, remove the casserole from the oven, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top, and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.
9
Serve hot and enjoy your creamy chickpea tahini bake!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Savory Chickpea Tahini Bake?
It is a hearty vegan casserole made with protein-packed chickpeas, fragrant herbs, and a creamy tahini topping served over brown rice.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is entirely plant-based and vegan-friendly.
What oven temperature is required for this bake?
The oven should be preheated to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius.
How long does the casserole need to bake?
It takes approximately 40 minutes to bake, plus an optional 5 minutes if adding sesame seeds.
Should I drain the chickpeas before using them?
Yes, the chickpeas should be drained and rinsed before being added to the baking dish.
Do I need to drain the canned diced tomatoes?
No, the diced tomatoes should be used undrained to provide moisture for the casserole.
What kind of rice should I use?
The recipe calls for 3 to 4 cups of cooked brown rice.
How do I prepare the tahini topping?
Whisk together 3 tablespoons of tahini and 3 tablespoons of water in a small bowl until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
What size baking dish is recommended?
A 9x13-inch baking dish is the ideal size for this recipe.
Can I use fresh garlic instead of powder?
Yes, you can substitute 1 teaspoon of garlic powder with an equivalent amount of fresh minced garlic.
Are fresh herbs suitable for this recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh oregano, basil, and parsley instead of dried versions if preferred.
Is this dish gluten-free?
The ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels on canned items to be certain.
Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely, this versatile casserole welcomes variations such as your favorite seasonal vegetables.
How do I prevent the food from sticking to the pan?
Lightly grease the baking dish with olive oil before adding the ingredients.
When should I add the toasted sesame seeds?
Sprinkle them on top after the initial 40 minutes of baking, then return to the oven for 5 more minutes.
What seasonings provide the savory flavor?
The flavor comes from a blend of garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, and dried parsley.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, it is specifically noted as being perfect for weeknight dinners and meal prep.
How many cans of chickpeas do I need?
The recipe requires two cans of chickpeas, each between 15 and 22.5 ounces.
What is the role of tahini in this dish?
Tahini provides a creamy, decadent texture and a nutty flavor profile to the casserole.
Can I use a different type of onion?
The recipe specifies a medium white onion, but yellow or red onions would also work well.
How do I know when the bake is finished?
The top should be golden brown and the mixture should be bubbly.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, though canned diced tomatoes provide a specific amount of juice that helps keep the rice moist.
Is the rice cooked before baking?
Yes, the brown rice must be pre-cooked before being mixed with the other ingredients.
What texture can I expect from the tahini topping?
When whisked with water, it becomes smooth and slightly fluffy, creating a creamy layer.
Can I omit the toasted sesame seeds?
Yes, the sesame seeds are optional and can be omitted without ruining the dish.
Is this a healthy recipe?
Yes, it features whole grains, legumes, and healthy fats from tahini, making it a wholesome meal.
Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?
Yes, white rice can be used, though brown rice is recommended for its nutty flavor and extra fiber.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
What is the best way to serve this dish?
It is best served hot immediately after it comes out of the oven.
Can I add spices for heat?
Yes, you can feel free to add your favorite spices, such as red pepper flakes, if you prefer some heat.