Chickpea Stew

Spiced Chickpeas Cooked with Tomatoes and Greens.

Chickpea Stew:

A hearty, flavorful dish, this Chickpea Stew is packed with protein, fiber, and vibrant spices. The combination of chickpeas, tomatoes, and greens in a spiced broth makes for a comforting and nutritious stew. Perfect for a cozy meal, especially during cooler months.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cups spinach or kale (or a combination of both)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
• 1/2 tsp paprika (smoked paprika is a nice option)
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, adds warmth)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Sauté Vegetables:

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

2. Add the Peppers and Spices:

• Add the chopped bell pepper to the pot and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
• Stir in the tomato paste, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, paprika, and cinnamon (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes until the spices are fragrant and well mixed.

3. Add Tomatoes and Chickpeas:

• Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and chickpeas to the pot, and stir to combine.
• Pour in the vegetable broth, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Let the stew simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.

4. Add Greens:

• Stir in the spinach or kale, and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the greens are wilted and tender. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

5. Serve:

• Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley, if desired.
• Serve hot with crusty bread or over cooked rice for a complete meal.

Tips & suggestions:

• Add More Veggies: You can add other vegetables like zucchini, sweet potatoes, or potatoes to bulk up the stew.
• Spicy Version: Add some chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
• Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of yogurt for a creamy texture.
• Protein Boost: Add some tofu or tempeh for additional protein.
• Make Ahead: This stew can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Enjoy your meal!