Bazella, a traditional Middle Eastern dish, is a hearty and delicious stew primarily made from split peas and aromatic spices. This vegetarian version of bazella is not only packed with flavors but also offers a nutritious and satisfying meal perfect for any time of the year.
Whether you’re new to Middle Eastern cuisine or looking to add a wholesome plant-based dish to your repertoire, this bazella recipe is simple to prepare and incredibly rewarding.
With tender split peas, fresh herbs, and a blend of spices, this dish offers a comforting texture and vibrant taste that pairs beautifully with rice or warm bread. It’s a great way to enjoy a protein-rich vegetarian meal that feels indulgent without being heavy.
Plus, bazella is versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Let’s dive into how you can make this flavorful vegetarian bazella at home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegetarian bazella recipe is a perfect blend of tradition and simplicity. It’s:
- Easy to make: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein from split peas and fiber-rich veggies.
- Flavorful: A mix of warm spices and fresh herbs that brighten the dish.
- Comforting: Thick, creamy, and perfect for cooler evenings.
- Versatile: Serve it with rice, bread, or alongside other Middle Eastern dishes.
If you love wholesome comfort food with a Middle Eastern twist, this bazella recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 cup yellow split peas, rinsed and drained
- 3 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of half a lemon (optional, for brightness)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
Equipment
- Medium saucepan or pot with lid
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Serving bowls
Instructions
- Prepare the split peas: Rinse the split peas thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents them from clumping.
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in your saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add spices and tomato: Stir in the cumin, coriander, turmeric, and optional cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute to release their flavors, then add the diced tomato and cook until soft, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook the split peas: Add the rinsed split peas to the pot along with the vegetable broth or water. Stir to combine, then bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-50 minutes, stirring occasionally. The peas should be tender and the mixture thickened.
- Season and finish: Once the peas are soft, season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley for a burst of freshness.
- Serve: Spoon the bazella into bowls and enjoy it warm. It pairs wonderfully with rice or fresh flatbread.
Tips & Variations
“For an even creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the bazella with an immersion blender before adding the parsley.”
- Make it vegan: This recipe is naturally vegan, but make sure your vegetable broth is free from animal products.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add diced carrots or potatoes for extra heartiness.
- Spice it up: Increase the cayenne or add a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
- Herb swaps: Use fresh cilantro or mint instead of parsley for a different flavor profile.
- Bulk it up: Stir in cooked rice or bulgur for a filling one-pot meal.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving (approx.) |
---|---|
Calories | 220 kcal |
Protein | 14 g |
Carbohydrates | 35 g |
Dietary Fiber | 12 g |
Fat | 5 g |
Sodium | 350 mg |
Vitamin C | 10% DV |
Serving Suggestions
Bazella is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways:
- Serve over steamed basmati rice or couscous for a complete meal.
- Pair with warm pita bread or Hamburger Bun Sourdough to soak up the flavorful broth.
- Top with a dollop of plain yogurt or a sprinkle of crumbled feta for extra creaminess.
- Enjoy alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- Try it with a side of Half Runner Beans for another delicious vegetarian option.
Conclusion
This vegetarian bazella recipe is a wonderful addition to any home cook’s repertoire, especially for those who appreciate Middle Eastern flavors and hearty, plant-based meals. Its simple ingredients come together to create a nourishing, comforting dish perfect for lunch or dinner.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, bazella offers a rich taste experience that’s both satisfying and wholesome.
Don’t forget to experiment with the spices and herbs to suit your palate, and pair it with some homemade bread like the Green Chile Cheese Bread for a meal that’s truly unforgettable. Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Bazella Recipe Vegetarian
Description: Bazella is a traditional Middle Eastern dish made with green peas and rice, flavored with aromatic spices. This vegetarian version is hearty, healthy, and easy to prepare.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT50M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the basmati rice until water runs clear.
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat and sauté onion until translucent.
- Add garlic, cumin, cinnamon, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in green peas and rice, coating them with the spices.
- Pour in vegetable broth and add salt to taste.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until rice is cooked.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 250 kcal | Protein: 7 g | Fat: 6 g | Carbs: 40 g
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