Chickpeas in Honey

Chickpeas feature in so many Mediterranean cuisines, both as a vegetable and as a spread or dip, that simply by adding them as a side dish to a meal you can suggest a particular cooking style such as Greek, Turkish and the more exotic recipies of North Africa.

As an accompaniment to curry or a spicy couscous, chickpeas in honey is the perfect freshener as well as providing a high level of nutrition. As a dish it's virtually fat-free and you can serve it with confidence to your vegetarian, and even vegan, friends.

You need:

• 250g canned chickpeas
• 100g sultanas
• 4tbs honey
• 1tsp cinnamon
• juice of one orange
• pinch of salt

Put all the ingredients in a saucepan, including the chickpea liquid but not the salt and stir to combine while heating gently. Leave to simmer, uncovered, for about 10 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt if necessary.

This dish can be served hot or cold, depending on the food it is being eaten with. Use it just as you would peas or beans, or as a side dish.

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