Creamy Vegan Giant Couscous Risotto with Chickpeas and Spinach

This one-pot wonder is a delightful vegan twist on traditional risotto, using giant couscous instead of rice. It’s creamy, flavorful, and packed with protein-rich chickpeas and nutritious spinach.

Ingredients

  • Olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • 270g giant couscous (also known as Israeli or Pearl couscous)
  • 250ml vegan-friendly white wine (optional)
  • 1 liter vegetable stock
  • 4 tbsp nutritional yeast
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 150g baby spinach
  • 2 x 400g tins of chickpeas, drained
  • 1 lemon (zest of half, juice of whole)
  • 1 x 400ml tin of full-fat coconut milk

Method

  1. Sauté aromatics:
    • Heat olive oil in a large pan
    • Cook onion for 6-8 minutes until caramelized
    • Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes
  2. Toast and cook couscous:
    • Add giant couscous and cook for 1 minute
    • Pour in wine (if using) and cook until evaporated (3-4 minutes)
    • Add 3/4 of the vegetable stock and nutritional yeast
    • Simmer covered for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally
  3. Add vegetables and legumes:
    • Stir in spinach until wilted
    • Add chickpeas, lemon zest, and lemon juice
  4. Finish the dish:
    • Add coconut cream from the top of the coconut milk tin
    • Season generously with salt and pepper
    • Heat through until sauce thickens
  5. Serve:
    • Spoon into bowls
    • Top with reserved coconut cream, olive oil, and a pinch of salt

This Creamy Vegan Giant Couscous Risotto is a comforting, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe – it’s a delicious way to enjoy a plant-based version of a classic dish that will leave you feeling nourished and content!