Instant-Pot Italian Chickpea Stew with Pesto

Ingredients for Instant-Pot Italian Chickpea Stew with Pesto

• 1 1/2 packed cups fresh basil leaves (about 20g )

• 60ml extra-virgin olive oil, plus additional if needed

• 30g grated Parmesan cheese (about 30g )

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1 tablespoon toasted pine nuts

• 1 tablespoon plus 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided

• 0.9L water

• 350g dried chickpeas

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 small onion, chopped (about 100g )

• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped (about 110g )

• 1 (400g) can diced tomatoes, undrained

• 950ml chicken stock

• 60ml grated Parmesan or similar cheese

How to make Instant-Pot Italian Chickpea Stew with Pesto

Combine the basil, oil, cheese, garlic, and pine nuts in a small food processor or blender. Pulse until a coarse paste forms, adding a tablespoon or two of water or more olive oil, if necessary to get a loose-enough consistency. Set aside 80ml pesto for this recipe; the remainder can be refrigerated in an airtight container for a week or so, or frozen for several months.

In a large bowl, dissolve 1 tablespoon of kosher salt in the water. Add the chickpeas and soak at room temperature for 8 to 24 hours. Drain and rinse.

Preheat the Instant Pot by selecting Sauté and adjust to More for high heat. Add the olive oil and heat until it shimmers. Add the onion and sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoons of salt. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onion pieces separate and soften, 2 to 3 minutes.

Add the drained chickpeas, carrots, tomatoes with their juice, stock, and remaining 1/4 teaspoons of salt. Lock the lid into place. Select Manual; adjust the pressure to High and the time to 10 minutes. After cooking, naturally release the pressure for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure. Unlock and remove the lid.

Ladle the chickpeas into bowls and top each with a spoonful of pesto. Sprinkle with the cheese and serve.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.