Q1: What is the absolute, number one secret to getting a good, flavorful sear on ground beef?

The secret is to use a hot pan and to not overcrowd it . This recipe brilliantly uses the technique of searing the beef as patties first . By allowing the meat to have direct, undisturbed contact with the hot surface of the pan, you are creating a beautiful, deep brown crust through the Maillard reaction, which is pure, concentrated flavor.

Q2: What is Garam Masala?

Garam masala is a classic, aromatic Indian spice blend that is the key to the unique flavor of this dish. While the exact ingredients can vary, it is typically a complex and fragrant mix of warm, ground spices, such as cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, cumin, coriander, and black pepper . It is a fantastic, versatile spice blend to have in your pantry.

Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time for meal prep?

Yes, this is a perfect meal-prep recipe! You can prepare the entire skillet and portion it into airtight containers with some rice. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making for a delicious and satisfying lunch.

Q4: Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, absolutely! To make this recipe completely vegetarian or vegan, simply omit the ground beef and double the amount of chickpeas . Be sure to also use a high-quality vegetable broth or water

Q5: Can I add other vegetables to this skillet?

Of course! To add a boost of greens, you can stir in a few large handfuls of fresh baby spinach at the very end and let it wilt into the hot mixture. Some finely diced carrots or zucchini would also be fantastic additions—simply sauté them with the garlic and ginger.

20-Minute Beef and Chickpea Skillet (Easy & Flavorful!)

A quick and easy one-pan meal featuring ground beef and chickpeas, ready in about 20 minutes. This simple weeknight dinner involves searing ground beef patties in a large skillet, then breaking them up and cooking them with canned chickpeas until the chickpeas start to brown and burst. The mixture is seasoned with a warm and fragrant blend of Indian-inspired spices like garam masala and cumin, and finished with tomato paste and a little water to create a light, savory sauce.

Author: Evelyn

Ingredients

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 pound 80/20 or 85/15 ground beef
2 (14-ounce) cans chickpeas, drained
2 teaspoons grated garlic
2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 1/2 teaspoons garam masala
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2/3 cup water

Instructions

Add the oil to a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Gently form the ground beef into 4 patties and add them to the hot skillet. Cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes, until deeply browned on the bottom.
Flip the beef patties, then add the drained chickpeas to the pan. Cook for about 7 minutes, until the chickpeas are turning brown and starting to burst.
Use a spatula or spoon to break up the beef patties into small pieces and mix them with the chickpeas.
Add the grated garlic, ginger, onion powder, cumin, garam masala, salt, and pepper. Cook for about one minute, stirring the spices into the ground beef and chickpeas.
Stir in the tomato paste, scraping up any stuck-on bits from the bottom of the pan.
Add the water and mix everything well. Bring to a simmer, then taste and season with more salt and pepper as desired.
Remove from the heat and serve immediately.

Notes

This is a true one-pan meal, making for very easy cleanup.
A key technique for developing flavor is to sear the ground beef as patties first before crumbling, which creates a better brown crust.
Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and are easily reheated.
This dish is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.

Find it online: https://cookupjoy.com/beef-and-chickpea-skillet/