Spiced Chickpea and Sweet Potato Stew

Spiced Chickpea and Sweet Potato Stew

This stew is a celebration of simple ingredients – chickpeas, sweet potatoes, and a beautiful blend of spices – all simmered together to create a deeply flavorful and satisfying meal. It’s a dish that reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen in Morocco, a place where every ingredient held a story. It’s truly a dish that speaks of comfort and time well spent. I remember making this as a kid and the smells of it always made my mouth water.

Yields: 6-8 servings Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 1 large Onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 inch Ginger, grated
  • 1 tsp Turmeric Powder
  • 1 tsp Cumin Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Cinnamon Powder
  • 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper (optional, for a little heat)
  • 1 large Sweet Potato, peeled and diced (about 1 inch cubes)
  • 1 (15-ounce) can Chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 4 cups Vegetable Broth
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can Diced Tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • Fresh Cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving - optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the turmeric, cumin, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the spices.
  5. Add the diced sweet potato and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer.
  7. Add the chickpeas and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  8. Taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
  9. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm.

Notes & Variations: For an even richer flavor, add a tablespoon of tomato paste when you add the sweet potatoes. You can also add a handful of spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a boost of green. Leftovers are even better the next day!

Enjoy this comforting stew! It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. What are your favorite variations of this recipe?

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