Ayurvedic Kimchi Salad with Crispy Chickpeas (V)

Ayurvedic Kimchi Salad with Crispy Chickpeas (V)

Makes 4 servings (2 cups per serving)

Dosha Balance

• Pacifies: Vata and Pitta

• Note: The addition of warming spices and healthy fats helps soothe Vata, while the cooling elements balance Pitta.

Ingredients

Chickpeas:

• 2 tablespoons ghee (or avocado oil)

• One 14.5-ounce can chickpeas, drained and rinsed

• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (for its anti-inflammatory properties)

• 1/2 teaspoon cumin (to aid digestion)

Dressing:

• 1/4 cup avocado oil (or olive oil for a different flavor)

• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (for gentle acidity)

• 3 tablespoons coconut aminos (or tamari for gluten-free)

• 1 garlic clove, grated

• Sea salt to taste

• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Salad:

• 1 cup kimchi, drained and chopped (choose a mild version if sensitive to spice)

• 1 head of romaine lettuce, trimmed and chopped

• 2 cups baby spinach (lightly cooked to reduce Vata aggravation)

• 8 radishes, trimmed and thinly sliced

• 2 tablespoons hemp seeds (for protein and healthy fats)

• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds (for crunch and additional flavor)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chickpeas:

   • Heat ghee in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chickpeas.

   • In a small bowl, combine the sea salt, garlic powder, onion powder, turmeric, and cumin. Sprinkle this spice mixture over the chickpeas, stirring to coat evenly.

   • Cook until the chickpeas become golden and crispy along the edges. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Make the Dressing:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together avocado oil, apple cider vinegar, coconut aminos, and grated garlic. Season with sea salt and black pepper to taste.

3. Assemble the Salad:

   • In a large bowl, toss together the kimchi, romaine lettuce, baby spinach (lightly cooked), radishes, hemp seeds, and sesame seeds.

   • Scatter the crispy chickpeas on top, drizzle with the dressing, and toss gently to combine.

4. Serve: Enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Total Fat: ~47g

• Cholesterol: 0mg

• Net Carbohydrates: ~20g

• Protein: ~27g

Notes

• Grounding Ingredients: Ghee and sesame seeds help balance Vata, while the vinegar and kimchi add a refreshing element.

• Spice Adjustments: Feel free to adjust spices based on personal tolerance, particularly if Pitta is a concern.

• Kimchi Selection: Choose a less spicy kimchi if you are sensitive to heat, or consider making your own with milder ingredients.