Balila (Lebanese warm chickpeas)

A quick Lebanese dish: warm chickpeas seasoned with garlic, cumin, lemon and olive oil. Simple, nourishing and comforting, it can be eaten for breakfast or as a snack.

Prep time: 5 min  |  Cook time: 10 min  |  Servings: 4  |  Difficulty: Very easy

Calculated per portion from Anses Ciqual 2025 values for each ingredient, based on the quantities in the list. Household measures (spoonfuls, pieces) use average weights. 309 kcal · 12 g protein · 24 g carbohydrate · 15 g fat

Ingredients

• 2 tins of chickpeas
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 lemon
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 bunch of parsley

Method

1. Warm the chickpeas in a little water.
2. Drain them and season with crushed garlic and cumin.
3. Add the lemon and olive oil.
4. Sprinkle with parsley and serve warm.

Nutritional benefits

Chickpeas are an excellent source of plant protein, fibre and iron, very filling and with a low glycaemic index. Warm and simply seasoned (garlic, cumin, lemon), they make a nourishing, comforting Lebanese dish, ideal as a savoury breakfast or snack. Naturally vegan and gluten-free.

Variations and substitutions

• With tahini for extra creaminess.
• Spicier: add chilli.
• With diced tomatoes.
• With pitta bread.

Storage and making ahead

Keeps for 3 days in the fridge and reheats; just as good cold in a salad.

💡 Good to know

Serve the chickpeas warm (not boiling hot or cold): this is the ideal temperature for them to absorb the seasoning.

Related reading

Discover more vegetarian recipes · vegan recipes · high-protein recipes · gluten-free recipes · dairy-free recipes.

The foods in this recipe: chickpeas · garlic · cumin · lemon · olive oil.

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