Easy Moroccan Chickpea Stew Recipe
Recipe Overview
If you’re looking for an aromatic and hearty dish, then this easy Moroccan chickpea stew recipe is the perfect choice for you. Originating from the North African country of Morocco, this stew captures the essence of Moroccan cuisine with its deep spices and warm flavors. Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, form the hearty base of this dish, while a medley of vegetables and spices create a wholesome and satisfying meal. Not only is it vibrant and delicious, but it’s also a great vegan Moroccan chickpea stew option that can appeal to everyone, regardless of dietary preference.
This homemade Moroccan chickpea stew from scratch is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can serve it over grains like couscous or rice, or simply enjoy it as is. The rich blend of spices provides a depth of flavor that will transport your taste buds straight to the bustling markets of Marrakech. With a total prep and cook time of just under an hour, you can have a nourishing and captivating meal ready in no time, making it an excellent addition to your weeknight dinner repertoire!
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Serving size: 4 servings
Ingredients
For the Stew
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (red or yellow)
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped for garnish
Possible Ingredient Swaps
- Use sweet potatoes in place of regular potatoes for a sweeter flavor.
- Substitute coconut milk for vegetable broth for added creaminess and richness.
- Instead of zucchini, use eggplant for a different texture and taste.
Equipment List
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Can opener
- Serving bowls
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Allow the oil to become hot but not smoking.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion turns translucent and fragrant. Then, mix in the minced garlic, stirring continuously for another minute to avoid burning.
- Add the Vegetables: Incorporate the diced carrot, bell pepper, and zucchini. Sauté for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften. You’ll see beautiful colors coming together!
- Introduce the Spices: Sprinkle in the ground cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, and cinnamon. Stir continuously for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and enhance their flavors.
- Add Chickpeas and Tomatoes: Gently fold in the chickpeas and canned diced tomatoes along with their juices. Mix everything well to combine the flavors.
- Pour in the Broth: Add 1 cup of vegetable broth to the pot and stir to incorporate. This will help create a deliciously rich broth as the stew simmers.
- Simmer the Stew: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Allow it to simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally, and enjoy the aroma filling your kitchen; it’s an experience in itself!
- Season to Taste: After simmering, season the stew with salt and pepper according to your preference. Adjust any spices if necessary.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the stew reaches your desired consistency, remove it from heat and serve it warm. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for a splash of color and flavor.
Special Notes
Storing: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It also freezes well in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. If the stew is too thick upon reheating, add a splash of water or broth to achieve your desired consistency.
Troubleshooting: If the stew turns out too thick, simply stir in 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable broth to loosen it up. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few extra minutes to help it thicken up.
Variations and Customizations
This vegan Moroccan chickpea stew can be adapted to your dietary preference easily:
- Gluten-Free: This stew is naturally gluten-free. Ensure all pre-packaged ingredients, such as broth, are labeled gluten-free.
- Low-Carb: For a low-carb version, omit the tomatoes and increase the amount of zucchini and bell peppers. This will create a stew with lower carbohydrate content.
- Add Proteins: If desired, add cooked lentils or quinoa for an extra protein boost, making it even more nutritious.
Nutritional Information
Estimated per serving:
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 10g
Engaging Visual Details
The Moroccan chickpea stew is a feast for the eyes. Picture a deep, warm orange and red liquid strewn with vibrant greens from the cilantro. As you ladle the stew into a bowl, the steam wafts up, carrying the fragrance of the fragrant spices that stimulate your senses, inviting you to indulge. A perfectly garnished bowl transforms this simple stew into a gourmet dish ready for your dinner table.
Images or videos showcasing the preparation process, especially the sauté phase and the vibrant end result, would greatly enhance engagement. The transformation from fresh ingredients to a bubbling stew is a captivating visual story worth sharing!
Conclusion
Now that you have the complete guide to making this easy Moroccan chickpea stew recipe, it’s time to bring the essence of Moroccan cuisine into your kitchen. The delightful mix of spices and comforting textures will surely become a family favorite. We encourage you to try out this recipe, and don’t hesitate to leave a comment below if you did! Share your version on Instagram and tag us with MyDeliciousDish – we can’t wait to see your creations!
