This Hearty Vegan Moroccan Stew is a delightful blend of aromatic spices, vegetables, and chickpeas, creating a comforting and nutritious meal. Perfect for chilly nights or when you need a warming dish, this stew is sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive into the recipe and create this delicious and wholesome dish!
Ingredients:
For the Stew:
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, grated
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 sweet potato, peeled and cubed
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 can (15 ounces) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) of diced tomatoes
- 4 cups of vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup of tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup of raisins (optional)
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
For Serving:
- Cooked couscous or rice
- Lemon wedges
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
- Stir in the diced carrots, celery, red bell pepper, sweet potato, and zucchini. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Add the Spices and Liquids
- Add the ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, ground cinnamon, ground turmeric, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
- Stir in the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 4: Simmer the Stew
- Reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the drained chickpeas and raisins (if using). Simmer for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Serve the Moroccan stew hot over cooked couscous or rice.
- Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and parsley.
- Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips and Variations:
- Extra Protein: Add some cubed tofu or tempeh for added protein.
- Different Vegetables: Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand, such as eggplant, spinach, or cauliflower.
- Nutty Addition: Sprinkle some toasted almonds or pine nuts on top for extra crunch and flavor.
This Hearty Vegan Moroccan Stew is a wonderful way to enjoy a comforting and flavorful meal that’s both nutritious and easy to make. Perfect for any occasion, this stew is sure to impress with its rich and aromatic flavors. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this delightful dish. Happy cooking!
