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Chickpea Dinner

A Gastronomic Treasure from Alentejo

Chickpea Dinner, also known as chickpea stew, is a traditional dish from Alentejo, a region of Portugal known for its rich culinary heritage.

This simple and comforting dish reflects the essence of Alentejo cuisine, where the authentic flavors of local ingredients are valued in home-made and soulful preparations.

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The Origin and Meaning of Chickpea Dinner

The Alentejo is a region marked by agriculture and rural life, and Chickpea Dinner was born as a way to make the most of the available ingredients, especially chickpeas, which have always played a central role in the local diet.

Combining meats, sausages, vegetables and chickpeas, this dish is an example of the Alentejo’s creativity in transforming simple ingredients into tasty and nutritious meals.

More than just a dish, Jantarinho de Grão is a tradition passed down from generation to generation, often prepared at family gatherings or local festivals.

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Ingredients and Preparation

Although there are variations, the basic ingredients for Jantarinho de Grão include:
• Chickpeas: The star of the dish, cooked slowly until tender.
• Meats: Pork, lamb or chicken are the most common, and may vary depending on availability.
• Sausages: Chorizo, black pudding or farinheira, which give the dish an intense and characteristic flavor.
• Vegetables: Potatoes, carrots, onions and sometimes turnips, which complement the richness of the meat and chickpeas.
• Herbs and Seasonings: Bay leaves, coriander and garlic are used to add freshness and aroma.

Preparing Chickpea Dinner requires patience.

The chickpeas are left to soak overnight to ensure the perfect texture, and all the ingredients are cooked together in an aromatic broth, allowing the flavors to blend harmoniously.

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The Tradition of Serving the Chickpea Dinner

In Alentejo, the Chickpea Dinner is served as a complete and substantial meal, ideal for colder days or to feed the farm workers.

It is usually accompanied by Alentejo bread, which is used to soak up the delicious broth, and a good regional wine.

Each family has its own recipe and way of serving the dish, but the essence remains the same: a celebration of the authentic flavors of Alentejo.

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Culinary Heritage of Alentejo

The Chickpea Dinner is more than a recipe; it is a representation of the culture and history of Alentejo.

It is a dish that honors the agricultural traditions and community spirit of the region, keeping alive the memories of a way of life that values ​​what is local and seasonal.

If you visit Alentejo, be sure to try this delicacy, whether in typical restaurants or at regional festivals.

The antarinho de Grão is an invitation to savor the best of Alentejo cuisine, an experience that warms the body and soul.

A Truly Personalized Experience!

 

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