If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful, and comforting dish, look no further than this Spicy Chickpea Stew. Combining the rich, earthy taste of chickpeas with bold spices and a medley of vegetables, this stew is perfect for a chilly evening or a nutritious weeknight meal. The heat from the spices adds warmth, while the chickpeas provide a satisfying, protein-packed base.
This dish is not only vegan but also incredibly versatile. You can adjust the spice level to your preference, add extra vegetables, or even serve it over rice or with crusty bread for a complete meal. It’s the perfect combination of comfort food and vibrant flavors.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the chopped carrot, zucchini, and bell pepper. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add the Spices: Stir in the cumin, turmeric, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the spices cook for about 1 minute to release their flavors.
- Simmer the Stew: Add the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the vegetables to become tender.
- Adjust the Consistency: If the stew is too thick, you can add a little more vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or cayenne for extra heat.
- Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley. Serve with lemon wedges for a burst of fresh citrus flavor that brightens the dish.
This Spicy Chickpea Stew is a perfect balance of warmth and spice, with hearty vegetables and chickpeas that make it filling and nutritious. It’s great for meal prep as the flavors only improve after sitting for a day or two, and it’s an ideal dish for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome, satisfying meal.
