Moroccan Chickpea Stew Flavorful and Healthy Dish

ByLayla April 3, 2025October 11, 2025

$- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed - 1 medium onion, diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 bell pepper (any color), diced - 2 carrots, sliced - 2 medium tomatoes, diced - 1 cup vegetable broth - 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk - 2 tablespoons tomato paste - 1 tablespoon olive oil In this stew, the chickpeas stand out as a great protein source. They are earthy and filling. The fresh vegetables add a bright crunch and sweetness. I love using bell peppers and carrots for their color and taste. Coconut milk gives the stew a creamy texture. It adds richness without being too heavy. - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon ground coriander - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to heat preference) - Salt and pepper to taste Spices make this dish special. Cumin and coriander add warmth and depth. Smoked paprika brings a hint of smokiness. If you like heat, cayenne pepper adds a kick. Adjust the salt and pepper to fit your taste. These spices create a rich flavor that warms the soul. - Fresh cilantro Fresh cilantro is a perfect finish. It adds a pop of green and a fresh taste. Just sprinkle it on top before serving. This small step makes a big difference. You can also add a side of warm pita bread or couscous for a complete meal. Each bite will transport you to Morocco! {{ingredient_image_1}} First, heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion. Sauté for about five minutes until the onion looks clear. Next, add the minced garlic. Stir for a minute until you smell the garlic. Now, it is time to add the bell pepper and sliced carrots. Cook these for another three to four minutes. You want them to soften a bit but keep some crunch. Once your veggies are ready, stir in the diced tomatoes. Cook them for about five minutes. This helps them break down and adds flavor. Next, add the drained chickpeas and vegetable broth. Pour in the coconut milk and tomato paste too. Mix everything well so that the flavors combine. Now, sprinkle in ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir again to blend all the spices evenly. Bring the pot to a gentle boil. Once it bubbles, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 20 to 25 minutes. This cooking time allows the flavors to blend nicely. After simmering, taste the stew. Adjust the seasoning if needed. If it is too thick, you can add more vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency. To boost the flavor of your Moroccan chickpea stew, adjust your spices. Try adding more ground cumin or coriander for a deeper taste. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the dish. For a spicy kick, add more cayenne pepper, but be careful not to overdo it. To achieve the best texture, ensure your vegetables are cut evenly. This helps them cook at the same rate. Sauté your onions until they turn soft and translucent. This builds a great base flavor. The longer you simmer, the more the flavors blend together. You can make this stew ahead of time. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. To save time, use frozen vegetables. They are easy to add and cut down on prep time. You can also prepare the chickpeas in advance. If you use dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and cook them before adding to the stew. This makes your meal prep even simpler. Serve your Moroccan chickpea stew in deep bowls. Top it with fresh cilantro for a pop of color. Warm pita bread or fluffy couscous makes the perfect side. They soak up the stew’s rich flavors and add a nice texture. You can also serve it with a simple green salad for a fresh contrast. Pro Tips Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices enhance the flavor of your Moroccan Chickpea Stew. If you have whole spices, consider grinding them just before cooking for the best taste. Customize Heat Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper to your heat preference. Start with less and add more as needed to ensure everyone enjoys the dish. Serve with Accompaniments: Pair the stew with warm pita bread, couscous, or rice to make it a more filling meal and to soak up the delicious broth. Make it Ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day! Make it in advance and store it in the refrigerator to let the flavors develop further before serving. {{image_2}} You can boost the protein in your Moroccan chickpea stew. One option is chicken. Cook bite-sized pieces in the pot before adding veggies. Let them brown slightly. You can also use beef or lamb for a heartier flavor. Cook them in the same way. If you want a meat-free option, try tofu. Cube firm tofu and add it with the chickpeas. This gives a nice texture and protein boost. This stew is easy to adapt for different diets. For a gluten-free option, ensure your broth is gluten-free. Most vegetable broths are safe, but check the label. If you're vegan, you're already set! This recipe is naturally vegan due to the chickpeas and coconut milk. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if needed. To make your stew even tastier, add more herbs and spices. Fresh ginger adds a warm kick. Just grate a small piece and mix it in. You might also try a pinch of cinnamon for a unique flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley or mint can brighten the dish. Add them just before serving. Don't forget about lemon juice! A squeeze of lemon can really lift the flavors. After you enjoy your Moroccan chickpea stew, store any leftovers in an airtight container. Let the stew cool down before sealing it. Place the container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. When you're ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Stir well to ensure even heating. Freezing the stew is a great way to keep it longer. First, let the stew cool completely. Then, pour it into a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag. Make sure to leave some space at the top, as liquids expand when frozen. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Then, heat it on the stove until hot. For the best taste and quality, use the stew within 3 to 5 days if refrigerated. If frozen, aim to eat it within 3 months. Always check for any off smells or changes in color before eating. These signs mean it’s time to toss it out. Enjoy your flavorful dish while it's fresh! You can use several options if you need to swap out coconut milk. Here are a few ideas: - Almond milk (unsweetened) - Soy milk - Oat milk - Heavy cream (for a dairy option) Each choice will change the taste and texture a little. Almond and oat milk are great for a light feel. Heavy cream adds richness but will make it less vegan. This stew stays fresh for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Yes! You can easily prepare this stew in a slow cooker. Here’s how: - Sauté the onions and garlic first for better flavor. - Add all other ingredients to the slow cooker. - Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. - Make sure to stir occasionally. If it gets too thick, add more broth. This method lets the flavors blend well and makes it super easy! This blog post covered making a delicious Moroccan Chickpea Stew. You learned about key ingredients, like chickpeas and coconut milk, and how to prepare them. I shared step-by-step instructions and helpful tips for great flavor and texture. You can also explore various protein options and substitutions to fit your diet. Proper storage advice ensures your stew lasts longer. Enjoy your cooking adventure with this hearty meal, packed with flavor and nutrition!$

Looking for a dish that’s both flavorful and healthy? Moroccan Chickpea Stew is your answer! Packed with earthy spices and fresh veggies, this stew warms you from the inside out. I’ll guide you through simple steps to create this hearty meal. Whether you want a quick dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this recipe fits the bill. Ready to explore the vibrant flavors of Morocco? Let’s dive in!

Why I Love This Recipe

Delicious Flavor Profile: This stew combines a rich blend of spices that create a warm and inviting aroma, making each bite a comforting experience.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks alike.
Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein from chickpeas and essential vitamins from vegetables, this stew is a wholesome meal that satisfies hunger.
Versatile and Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice levels or add more vegetables based on your preferences, making it adaptable for everyone.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

– 1 medium onion, diced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 bell pepper (any color), diced

– 2 carrots, sliced

– 2 medium tomatoes, diced

– 1 cup vegetable broth

– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk

– 2 tablespoons tomato paste

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

In this stew, the chickpeas stand out as a great protein source. They are earthy and filling. The fresh vegetables add a bright crunch and sweetness. I love using bell peppers and carrots for their color and taste. Coconut milk gives the stew a creamy texture. It adds richness without being too heavy.

Spices and Seasonings

– 1 teaspoon ground cumin

– 1 teaspoon ground coriander

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to heat preference)

– Salt and pepper to taste

Spices make this dish special. Cumin and coriander add warmth and depth. Smoked paprika brings a hint of smokiness. If you like heat, cayenne pepper adds a kick. Adjust the salt and pepper to fit your taste. These spices create a rich flavor that warms the soul.

Optional Garnishes

– Fresh cilantro

Fresh cilantro is a perfect finish. It adds a pop of green and a fresh taste. Just sprinkle it on top before serving. This small step makes a big difference. You can also add a side of warm pita bread or couscous for a complete meal. Each bite will transport you to Morocco!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of Vegetables

First, heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion. Sauté for about five minutes until the onion looks clear. Next, add the minced garlic. Stir for a minute until you smell the garlic.

Now, it is time to add the bell pepper and sliced carrots. Cook these for another three to four minutes. You want them to soften a bit but keep some crunch.

Combining Ingredients

Once your veggies are ready, stir in the diced tomatoes. Cook them for about five minutes. This helps them break down and adds flavor.

Next, add the drained chickpeas and vegetable broth. Pour in the coconut milk and tomato paste too. Mix everything well so that the flavors combine.

Now, sprinkle in ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir again to blend all the spices evenly.

Cooking the Stew

Bring the pot to a gentle boil. Once it bubbles, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 20 to 25 minutes. This cooking time allows the flavors to blend nicely.

After simmering, taste the stew. Adjust the seasoning if needed. If it is too thick, you can add more vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.

Tips & Tricks

Enhancing Flavor

To boost the flavor of your Moroccan chickpea stew, adjust your spices. Try adding more ground cumin or coriander for a deeper taste. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the dish. For a spicy kick, add more cayenne pepper, but be careful not to overdo it.

To achieve the best texture, ensure your vegetables are cut evenly. This helps them cook at the same rate. Sauté your onions until they turn soft and translucent. This builds a great base flavor. The longer you simmer, the more the flavors blend together.

Time-Saving Suggestions

You can make this stew ahead of time. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. To save time, use frozen vegetables. They are easy to add and cut down on prep time.

You can also prepare the chickpeas in advance. If you use dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and cook them before adding to the stew. This makes your meal prep even simpler.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Moroccan chickpea stew in deep bowls. Top it with fresh cilantro for a pop of color. Warm pita bread or fluffy couscous makes the perfect side. They soak up the stew’s rich flavors and add a nice texture. You can also serve it with a simple green salad for a fresh contrast.

Pro Tips

Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices enhance the flavor of your Moroccan Chickpea Stew. If you have whole spices, consider grinding them just before cooking for the best taste.
Customize Heat Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper to your heat preference. Start with less and add more as needed to ensure everyone enjoys the dish.
Serve with Accompaniments: Pair the stew with warm pita bread, couscous, or rice to make it a more filling meal and to soak up the delicious broth.
Make it Ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day! Make it in advance and store it in the refrigerator to let the flavors develop further before serving.

Variations

Adding Proteins

You can boost the protein in your Moroccan chickpea stew. One option is chicken. Cook bite-sized pieces in the pot before adding veggies. Let them brown slightly. You can also use beef or lamb for a heartier flavor. Cook them in the same way. If you want a meat-free option, try tofu. Cube firm tofu and add it with the chickpeas. This gives a nice texture and protein boost.

Dietary Substitutions

This stew is easy to adapt for different diets. For a gluten-free option, ensure your broth is gluten-free. Most vegetable broths are safe, but check the label. If you’re vegan, you’re already set! This recipe is naturally vegan due to the chickpeas and coconut milk. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if needed.

Flavor Enhancements

To make your stew even tastier, add more herbs and spices. Fresh ginger adds a warm kick. Just grate a small piece and mix it in. You might also try a pinch of cinnamon for a unique flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley or mint can brighten the dish. Add them just before serving. Don’t forget about lemon juice! A squeeze of lemon can really lift the flavors.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

After you enjoy your Moroccan chickpea stew, store any leftovers in an airtight container. Let the stew cool down before sealing it. Place the container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Stir well to ensure even heating.

Freezing Instructions

Freezing the stew is a great way to keep it longer. First, let the stew cool completely. Then, pour it into a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag. Make sure to leave some space at the top, as liquids expand when frozen. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Then, heat it on the stove until hot.

Shelf Life

For the best taste and quality, use the stew within 3 to 5 days if refrigerated. If frozen, aim to eat it within 3 months. Always check for any off smells or changes in color before eating. These signs mean it’s time to toss it out. Enjoy your flavorful dish while it’s fresh!

FAQs

What can I substitute for coconut milk?

You can use several options if you need to swap out coconut milk. Here are a few ideas:

– Almond milk (unsweetened)

– Soy milk

– Oat milk

– Heavy cream (for a dairy option)

Each choice will change the taste and texture a little. Almond and oat milk are great for a light feel. Heavy cream adds richness but will make it less vegan.

How long does Moroccan Chickpea Stew last in the fridge?

This stew stays fresh for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes! You can easily prepare this stew in a slow cooker. Here’s how:

– Sauté the onions and garlic first for better flavor.

– Add all other ingredients to the slow cooker.

– Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.

– Make sure to stir occasionally. If it gets too thick, add more broth.

This method lets the flavors blend well and makes it super easy!

This blog post covered making a delicious Moroccan Chickpea Stew. You learned about key ingredients, like chickpeas and coconut milk, and how to prepare them. I shared step-by-step instructions and helpful tips for great flavor and texture. You can also explore various protein options and substitutions to fit your diet. Proper storage advice ensures your stew lasts longer. Enjoy your cooking adventure with this hearty meal, packed with flavor and nutritio