Easy Moroccan Chickpea Stew is a flavorful, comforting dish inspired by the spices and ingredients of Moroccan cuisine. This hearty, plant-based stew features tender chickpeas, tomatoes, and a variety of aromatic spices, all simmered together to create a rich, savory, and slightly spicy dish. Packed with nutrients and full of bold flavors, this stew is perfect for a cozy dinner or as a filling meal for any day of the week. Plus, it’s easy to make in one pot, making cleanup a breeze!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Moroccan Chickpea Stew is everything you want in a stew—rich, flavorful, and hearty. The combination of chickpeas, tomatoes, and a mix of warm spices like cumin, paprika, and cinnamon creates a dish that’s deeply satisfying. It’s a perfect blend of savory, slightly spicy, and subtly sweet flavors. Whether you’re looking for a plant-based meal or just want to try something new, this stew will warm you up from the inside out. It’s easy to make, filling, and perfect for meal prep, as the flavors only get better after sitting for a day or two!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon ground cumin

• 1 tablespoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional, for extra flavor)

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

• 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)

• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)

• 2 cups vegetable broth

• 1 medium carrot, sliced

• 1 medium zucchini, chopped

• 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped (optional for sweetness)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

• Cooked couscous, rice, or crusty bread for serving

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5-6 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

2. Add the spices: Stir in the cumin, paprika, cinnamon, turmeric (if using), and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to become fragrant and toast slightly.

3. Add the chickpeas and vegetables: Add the chickpeas, diced tomatoes (with juices), coconut milk, vegetable broth, sliced carrot, zucchini, and chopped apricots (if using). Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

4. Simmer: Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally, and add salt and pepper to taste.

5. Serve: Once the stew is ready, ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley. Serve it over couscous, rice, or with crusty bread for a complete meal.

6. Enjoy: Enjoy the rich, flavorful goodness of your Moroccan Chickpea Stew!

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4-6 servings

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 30 minutes

• Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Add greens: Stir in some spinach, kale, or Swiss chard during the last few minutes of cooking for added color and nutrition.

• Roasted vegetables: For extra flavor, you can roast the carrots, zucchini, and other vegetables before adding them to the stew.

• Add protein: If you prefer a heartier stew, you can add tofu, tempeh, or seitan for additional protein.

• Add heat: For a spicier version, increase the cayenne pepper or add fresh chili peppers to the stew.

• Sweet and savory twist: Try adding a handful of raisins or dates along with the apricots for a sweet and savory flavor combination.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Leftover stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to develop and improve as it sits.

• Freezing: This stew freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little more broth or water if needed.

• Reheating: Reheat the stew on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. Add a little vegetable broth or water if the stew has thickened too much.

FAQs

1. Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes! This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

2. Can I use other vegetables?

Yes! You can add vegetables like sweet potatoes, butternut squash, or bell peppers to the stew for added flavor and texture. Just be sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly.

3. Can I make this stew spicy?

Yes! You can adjust the heat by adding more cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or fresh chopped chili peppers. Taste as you go to get the right level of spice for your preference.

4. Can I make this stew without coconut milk?

Yes! You can substitute the coconut milk with vegetable broth for a lighter version. If you still want creaminess, try adding a dollop of plain yogurt or a splash of almond milk at the end of cooking.

5. Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes! You can add cooked chicken, lamb, or even chickpeas for extra protein. You can also add some cooked quinoa or lentils for more plant-based protein.

6. Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes! To make this stew in a slow cooker, sauté the onion, garlic, and spices, then transfer everything to the slow cooker with the rest of the ingredients. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender.

7. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned. Use about 4-5 medium tomatoes, chopped, and cook them down before adding the rest of the ingredients.

8. Can I make this stew spicier without cayenne pepper?

Yes, you can add other spicy ingredients like chili powder, fresh chilies, or hot sauce to ramp up the heat.

9. Can I use frozen chickpeas?

Yes! If you have frozen chickpeas, just add them to the stew directly. They may take a little longer to cook, so ensure they’re fully heated through by the end.

10. Can I skip the apricots?

Yes! The apricots add a subtle sweetness to the dish, but if you don’t have them or prefer a more savory stew, you can omit them without affecting the flavor too much. You can also substitute with raisins or dates.

Conclusion

Easy Moroccan Chickpea Stew is a nourishing, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. It’s a hearty, plant-based dish full of vegetables, spices, and warm flavors that will transport you to Morocco with every bite. Whether you’re looking for a healthy meal, a comforting stew, or something a little different, this recipe delivers all the goodness you crave. Serve it with rice or couscous, and enjoy a bowl of this vibrant, cozy stew!

Print