Vegan Puerto Rican Guiso de Garbanzos: A Flavorful and Hearty Stew
In the heart of Puerto Rican cuisine, there’s a dish that warms the soul and fills the belly – Guiso de Garbanzos, or chickpea stew. This traditional recipe, now veganized, is a perfect blend of vibrant flavors, cultural richness, and comforting goodness.
The Cultural Significance
Guiso de Garbanzos is more than just a meal; it’s a reflection of Puerto Rico’s diverse culinary heritage. This stew is often served at family gatherings and special occasions, bringing people together with its aromatic and savory flavors. By making it vegan, we’re not only adapting to modern dietary preferences but also honoring the tradition of using locally available and nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried chickpeas (or 2 cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Sofrito Base (see preparation below)
- Adobo Seasoning Blend (see preparation below)
- 1 large potato, peeled and cubed
- 1 large calabaza (pumpkin), peeled and cubed
- 1 cup tomato sauce or puree
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: TVP (Textured Vegetable Protein), Tofu, or Tempeh for added protein
Sofrito Base Preparation
Sofrito is the backbone of many Puerto Rican dishes, adding a depth of flavor that’s hard to replicate with individual ingredients.
- 1/4 cup olive oil or annatto oil
- 12 cloves garlic, finely grated
- 1 large white onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, seeds and ribs removed, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, seeds and ribs removed, diced
- 1 Cubanelle pepper, seeds and ribs removed, diced
- 5 ají dulce peppers, seeds and ribs removed
- 1/2 cup cilantro, finely chopped
- 7 sprigs of culantro (5 finely chopped, 2 whole)
- 1 cup tomato sauce or puree
Adobo Seasoning Blend
This blend is a staple in Puerto Rican cooking, adding a smoky, slightly spicy flavor.
- 1 tbsp Kosher Salt
- 1 tbsp Onion Powder
- 1 tbsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tbsp Smoked Paprika
- 1 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper
- 1 tsp Ground Cumin
- 1 tsp Dried Oregano
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chickpeas
If using dried chickpeas, soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight. Then, boil them in water with a pinch of baking soda until they are tender. If using canned chickpeas, skip this step.
Step 2: Make the Sofrito
In a large skillet, heat the olive or annatto oil over medium heat. Add the grated garlic, diced onions, bell peppers, Cubanelle pepper, and ají dulce peppers. Cook until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the chopped cilantro and culantro, along with the tomato sauce or puree. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Adobo and Other Ingredients
Add the Adobo Seasoning Blend to the skillet and stir well. Cook for 1 minute to allow the spices to bloom.
Step 4: Combine the Stew
In a large pot, combine the cooked chickpeas, sofrito mixture, cubed potato, cubed calabaza, bay leaf, and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes and calabaza are tender.
Step 5: Add Protein (Optional)
If you want to add some extra protein, you can include TVP, Tofu, or Tempeh. For TVP, simply rehydrate it according to package instructions and add it to the stew. For Tofu or Tempeh, cube it and add it to the pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Season the stew with salt and black pepper to taste. A splash of white vinegar can help balance the flavors and add a touch of brightness. Serve the Guiso de Garbanzos over fluffy white rice, accompanied by a side of fried plantains or a simple salad.
Tips and Variations
- Brining Chickpeas: If you’re using dry chickpeas, brining them in a salt water bath for about an hour can help keep their skin intact and make them cook more evenly.
- Using Beans Over Meat Alternatives: Chickpeas are already a great source of protein, so you might not need to add TVP, Tofu, or Tempeh. However, these options can add texture and variety.
- TVP in Puerto Rico: TVP is widely available and very affordable in Puerto Rico, making it a great option for those looking for a meat substitute.
Enjoy Your Vegan Guiso de Garbanzos!
This stew is a testament to the rich culinary traditions of Puerto Rico, now made accessible to everyone. With its hearty ingredients, vibrant flavors, and the option to customize with your favorite protein sources, this vegan Guiso de Garbanzos is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So go ahead, gather your family and friends, and let the warmth of this stew bring you all together.