Farro & Chickpea Risotto

"Creamy yet not, with a nutty bite

Wholesome yet flavorful, and a colorful sight.

Healthy too, for gluten there is none

Mix & match your veggies, have some fun!

With hints of spice, it craves the hunger

Ah! a warm welcome, on this day of thunder."

Ingredients

1 cup chickpea curry (recipe : either this or this. Leftovers from your favorite Indian take-out will do as well)

1/2 cup Farro, thoroughly rinsed

1 cup mixed vegetables (I used carrots, asparagus & red radish)

1/2 cup spinach leaves, washed and roughly chopped

2 teaspoons fresh coriander, finely chopped (for garnish)

3/4 cup low sodium vegetable stock (chicken/beef stock can be used as well)

1 teaspoon light olive oil

1/2 teaspoon cumin powder

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Salt, pepper to taste

Mix the Farro with the stock and bring to boil. Once it's half cooked (about 5-6 minutes), reduce to a simmer and add the chickpea curry. Let it cook on medium heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, till most of the liquid has been absorbed by the Farro. Once done, remove from heat, cover and leave for another 5-6 minutes.

In the meantime, heat oil in a non stick skillet. Add the cup of veggies, along with the dry spices and saute for a quick 1-2 minutes, till they just begin to brown. Stir in the chickpea Farro cooked earlier and give it another quick stir. Finally add the spinach leaves and saute till they're just wilted. Garnish with chopped coriander and enjoy hot.

A delicious gluten-free & vegan weekday dinner!