Easy Vegan Chickpea Stew

Name: Easy Vegan Chickpea Stew
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can diced tomatoes; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 carrot, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for cooking

Highlighted under: Easy Cooking Recipes

I love making this Easy Vegan Chickpea Stew when I'm in need of a comforting meal that is both hearty and healthy. The combination of spices, vegetables, and chickpeas creates a delightful medley of flavors that’s sure to please everyone at the table. What I enjoy the most is how quickly it comes together – perfect for busy weeknights! Whether served over rice or enjoyed on its own, each bowl feels like a warm hug.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T17:34:27.461Z

During one particularly cold evening, I decided to whip up a batch of my Easy Vegan Chickpea Stew. I had some chickpeas sitting in my pantry, and it turned out to be one of those dishes that warms you from the inside out. By sautéing the onions first, I found the flavors of the stew developed wonderfully, creating a base that complemented the chickpeas perfectly.

Another tip I discovered is adding a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. It brightens up the entire dish, promoting a fresh and zesty flavor that makes each bite even more enjoyable. I love how easily customizable this stew is, allowing me to throw in whatever vegetables I have on hand!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Wholesome ingredients packed with nutrients
Satisfying and filling while being plant-based
Versatile: customize with your favorite veggies

Ingredient Insights

Chickpeas are the star of this stew, providing not only protein and fiber but also a creamy texture that enhances the overall mouthfeel. For the best results, use canned chickpeas, as they are already tender and ready to absorb the flavors of the stew. If you prefer, you can cook dried chickpeas from scratch; just soak them overnight and boil until tender before adding to the pot.

Diced tomatoes bring acidity and moisture, balancing the richness of the chickpeas. Opt for fire-roasted diced tomatoes for an extra layer of flavor. If you prefer a lighter stew, you can substitute with fresh tomatoes; just ensure to cook them down until they break apart and release their juices.

Cooking Technique Tips

When sautéing the onions and garlic, aim for a fragrant golden color, which usually takes about 5-6 minutes. This step is crucial as it builds the base flavor of the stew. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and burning, adjusting the heat as necessary to keep everything cooking evenly.

As the stew simmers, keep an eye on the consistency. If it appears too thick, add a splash more vegetable broth to achieve your desired texture. A good simmer usually takes around 25 minutes; look for the vegetables to become tender while still maintaining their shape, giving you the perfect bite.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can diced tomatoes
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup vegetable broth
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

Adjust seasoning to taste and enjoy!

Instructions

Steps

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Cook the Stew

Add the diced carrots and bell pepper to the pot, sautéing for another 5 minutes. Next, stir in the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

Simmer and Serve

Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Before serving, squeeze in fresh lemon juice to enhance the flavors.

Pair the stew with rice, bread, or enjoy it on its own!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or zucchini to make it even more nutritious!

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty chickpea stew over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a complete meal. If you're looking for a lower-carb option, it pairs beautifully with steamed or sautéed vegetables. I personally enjoy adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro right before serving to elevate the dish’s freshness.

For an extra kick, consider topping each bowl with avocado slices or a dollop of cashew cream. If you want a bit more crunch, serve alongside crusty bread or whole-grain crackers to complement the stew’s creamy texture.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This stew is excellent for meal prep! It can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to five days or frozen for up to three months. When freezing, let it cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Leave some space at the top to allow for expansion as it freezes.

To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a bit of broth or water if it’s too thick. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating, and enjoy the comforting flavors as they revitalize during reheating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the chickpea stew?

Yes, you can freeze the stew! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to airtight containers.

→ What other spices can I add?

You can experiment with adding turmeric, coriander, or a dash of cayenne for some heat!

→ Is this stew gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free.

→ How can I make it spicier?

You can add fresh chopped chili peppers or a pinch of red pepper flakes according to your spice preference.