Save to Pinterest The first time I made this chickpea stew, I was recovering from a cold and needed something comforting but not heavy. My grandmother had always sworn by the healing power of warming spices, and as the cumin and coriander hit the hot oil, my tiny apartment filled with such incredible aromas that my roommate wandered in asking what smelled so good. That evening, we sat on the couch with steaming bowls, watching the rain against the windows, and I realized this simple stew had become one of those recipes that just makes you feel better from the inside out.
Last winter, I brought a batch of this stew to a friend who had just had a baby. She texted me two days later saying that her husband, who usually claims he needs meat with every meal, had already asked when I was making it again. There is something about the way the chickpeas absorb all those spices that makes this stew feel substantial and comforting, like a hug in bowl form.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil since it forms the flavor base of your whole stew
- 1 large onion, diced: Yellow onions work beautifully here and become sweeter as they cook down
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh minced garlic makes such a difference compared to jarred varieties
- 2 medium carrots, diced: These add natural sweetness and satisfying texture throughout the stew
- 1 red bell pepper, diced: The red bell pepper brings a subtle sweetness that balances the spices perfectly
- 1 zucchini, diced: Zucchini soaks up all those beautiful spices while adding a tender texture
- 2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed: I always keep a few extra cans in my pantry now because this stew has become such a go-to
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Cumin is the backbone of the spice blend and gives that warm earthy flavor
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander: Coriander adds a lovely citrusy brightness that lifts the heavier spices
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: This is the secret ingredient that adds such incredible depth and warmth
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric: Besides its beautiful golden color, turmeric adds that subtle earthy flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes: Adjust this based on your heat tolerance, but even a little bit wakes everything up
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Freshly ground pepper makes such a difference here
- 1 teaspoon sea salt: Start with this and adjust at the end since it really brings all the flavors forward
- 1 can diced tomatoes: The tomatoes provide the liquid base and a nice acidity to balance the spices
- 3 cups vegetable broth: Use a good quality broth you enjoy drinking on its own
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped: Add this at the very end so it stays vibrant and fresh
- Juice of 1 lemon: Fresh lemon juice right before serving brightens everything beautifully
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped: The fresh herbs on top add such a lovely pop of color and freshness
Instructions
- Build your flavor base:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, add onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until translucent and fragrant
- Add your vegetables:
- Add garlic, carrots, bell pepper, and zucchini, cooking and stirring occasionally for another 5 minutes until they begin to soften
- Wake up the spices:
- Stir in cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, chili flakes, black pepper, and salt, cooking for 1 minute until incredibly fragrant
- Bring it all together:
- Add chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes
- Add the greens:
- Add spinach or kale and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until just wilted and bright green
- Finish with brightness:
- Stir in lemon juice, taste everything, and adjust seasoning if needed before serving hot
Save to Pinterest This stew has become my answer to those weeknights when I want something nourishing but do not have the energy for anything complicated. My partner now requests it whenever the weather turns gray, and it has become one of those meals that feels like home, no matter where we are living.
Making It Your Own
I love adding a diced sweet potato along with the other vegetables for extra creaminess and natural sweetness. Sometimes I throw in a handful of green olives right at the end, which adds these briny bursts that cut through the rich spices beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
A dollop of coconut yogurt on top adds this wonderful creamy contrast to the spices. I also love serving it with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the warm stew with something fresh and crisp.
Storage And Meal Prep
This stew actually tastes even better the next day as all the flavors have time to meld together. I often make a double batch on Sunday and portion it into glass containers for easy lunches throughout the week.
- Let the stew cool completely before storing to prevent condensation
- It keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
- The flavors continue to develop, making leftovers even more delicious
Save to Pinterest There is something deeply satisfying about a recipe that nourishes you so completely while coming together so easily. This stew has earned its permanent place in my regular rotation, and I hope it finds its way into yours too.
Questions & Answers
- → How long does this keep in the refrigerator?
The stew stores well for up to 5 days in an airtight container. The flavors actually deepen and improve after a day or two.
- → Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, it freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
- → What can I serve with this stew?
Pair with crusty bread, brown rice, or quinoa for a complete meal. A dollop of yogurt or extra fresh herbs also makes lovely toppings.
- → How can I make it more filling?
Add diced sweet potato, eggplant, or serve over grains. Blending a portion creates a creamier texture while maintaining the chunky vegetables.
- → Is this suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. This stew reheats perfectly on the stovetop or in the microwave. Make a batch on Sunday for easy lunches throughout the week.