Chickpeas, Spinach and Pancetta
Inspired by Catalan cooking, this recipe from Barrafina combines chickpeas, spinach and pancetta. Add a dash of olive oil and serve with crusty bread.
Introduction
When we opened our first restaurant, Fino, we had this Catalan classic on the menu and it has remained there and at Barrafina ever since. It is a rustic, peasanty sort of dish that is very soothing and contains everything you could need for a light meal. Make sure the chickpeas are cooked until they are very tender so they absorb all the flavours.
Ingredients
| 240g | dried chickpeas, soaked in water overnight and drained |
| 4 | bay leaves, fresh if possible |
| 1 | large onion, peeled and cut in half |
| 12 tbsp | extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling |
| 240g | smoked pancetta, cut into 1cm lardons |
| 1 | large shallot, peeled and finely chopped |
| 6 | garlic cloves, peeled and finely chopped |
| 500ml | chicken stock |
| 300g | baby spinach leaves |
| Maldon salt and freshly ground black pepper |
Method
Put the drained chickpeas into a large pan with the bay leaves, onion and plenty of water. Bring to the boil, then cook for 45 minutes or until the chickpeas are tender. Drain the chickpeas, discarding the bay leaves and onion, and set aside to cool.
Heat the olive oil in a large sauté pan or heavy-bottomed frying pan over a high heat until almost smoking. Add the pancetta and cook until it starts to caramelize. Add the shallots and garlic and cook gently for 2 minutes.
Add the chicken stock to the pan and simmer until it has reduced by half. Add the chickpeas, reduce the heat and simmer for 4 to 5 minutes. Add the spinach and cook for a further 30 seconds, folding the leaves in gently.
Drizzle with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper if necessary. Serve with crusty sourdough bread.
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