Spicy Chickpea Stew

When the air turns crisp and you crave something deeply satisfying, this Spicy Chickpea Stew is the ultimate answer. It is a hearty, warming dish that brings together tender legumes and aromatic vegetables in a rich, tomato-based broth, providing the perfect plant-based nourishment for any chilly day.

Pin it

This stew is not just about heat; it is about the layers of flavor built through sautéing onions, carrots, and bell peppers before simmering them with a blend of warming spices. It is a thick, comforting dish that proves how simple ingredients like canned chickpeas and pantry spices can create a truly memorable meal.

Ingredients

• Legumes: 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• Vegetables: 1 large onion (finely chopped), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 2 carrots (diced), 1 red bell pepper (diced), 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, 2 cups vegetable broth, 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• Spices & Seasonings: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander, 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric, 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1 bay leaf, salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Finishing Touches: Juice of 1/2 lemon, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or parsley

Instructions

Step 1

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 4–5 minutes, until softened.

Step 2

Stir in the garlic, carrots, and bell pepper. Sauté for another 3–4 minutes.

Step 3

Add cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, turmeric, chili flakes, and cinnamon. Cook, stirring, for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4

Stir in tomato paste, then add diced tomatoes, chickpeas, vegetable broth, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.

Step 5

Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 6

Remove lid, season with salt and pepper, and simmer uncovered for an additional 5 minutes to thicken.

Step 7

Discard the bay leaf. Stir in lemon juice and fresh herbs. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 8

Serve hot, with crusty bread or over rice if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

This stew is a fantastic option for meal prepping because it keeps exceptionally well. Many find that the flavors meld and deepen over time, making it taste even better when enjoyed the next day.

Varianten und Anpassungen

To customize the heat level, you can add a diced jalapeño along with the other vegetables during the sautéing process. If you are not a fan of cilantro, freshly chopped parsley works beautifully as a bright alternative for the finishing touch.

Serviervorschläge

For a complete dining experience, serve the stew hot with a side of warm crusty bread for dipping or spooned over a bed of fluffy rice. It also pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc to balance the earthy spices.

Pin it

With its vibrant colors and rich aromas, this Spicy Chickpea Stew is a reliable staple for anyone looking for a wholesome, easy-to-make vegan meal. Whether served for a quiet weeknight dinner or as part of a larger gathering, it is sure to bring comfort to the table.

Common Questions

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, you can use 1.5 cups dried chickpeas. Soak them overnight, then cook until tender before adding to the stew. This will add about 1-2 hours to your preparation time.

→ How can I make this stew spicier?

Increase the chili flakes to 1 teaspoon or add a diced jalapeño with the vegetables. You can also stir in a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce before serving.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

Serve over fluffy rice, quinoa, or couscous. Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth. A side of yogurt (dairy or plant-based) adds a cooling contrast.

→ How long does this stew keep in the refrigerator?

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The flavors develop and intensify over time, making leftovers even more delicious. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

→ Can I freeze this chickpea stew?

Absolutely. Cool completely, then freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before serving.

→ What vegetables can I substitute or add?

Try adding diced sweet potato, zucchini, or spinach. Butternut squash works beautifully, as do kale or chard stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking.