Spicy Chickpea Stew

This Spicy Chickpea Stew is a hearty, warming meal featuring tender chickpeas simmered with aromatic spices, vegetables, and tomatoes. It is perfect for chilly days or whenever you crave comforting, plant-based nourishment that is both simple to prepare and deeply satisfying.

Pin it

The blend of cumin, smoked paprika, and turmeric creates a fragrant base that transforms simple pantry staples into a vibrant, restaurant-quality stew. Each spoonful offers a balance of earthy legumes and bright citrus notes.

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 (adjust to taste); 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 keeps exceptionally well and often tastes even better the next day as the spices have more time to meld together. It is an ideal dish for meal prepping.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For extra heat, add a diced jalapeño with the vegetables during the initial sauté. If you are not a fan of cilantro, you can easily substitute it with fresh parsley for a milder herbal finish.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this stew piping hot with a side of crusty bread for dipping or over a bed of fluffy rice. For a sophisticated touch, pair it with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.

Pin it

Whether you enjoy it immediately or save some for the next day, this Spicy Chickpea Stew is a reliable, nourishing staple that never fails to satisfy. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, you can use 2 cups of 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 thicker?

Remove the lid during the final 10 minutes of cooking to allow more liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, mash some of the chickpeas against the side of the pot to create a creamier, thicker consistency.

→ What can I serve with this chickpea stew?

This stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread, pita, couscous, quinoa, or steamed rice. You can also top it with a dollop of yogurt or tahini sauce for extra richness.

→ How long does this stew keep in the refrigerator?

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

→ Can I freeze this chickpea stew?

Absolutely! This stew freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before serving.

→ How do I adjust the spice level?

For milder heat, reduce or omit the chili flakes. For more spice, add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to taste. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side for individual preference.