Curry Chickpea Stew Recipe

Here’s a hearty and flavorful recipe for Curry Chickpea Stew that’s warming, nutritious, and perfect for any time of year:

Yield: 6 Servings

Ingredients

Base Ingredients:

  • 1 tbsp coconut oil (or olive oil)
  • 1/2 medium onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
  • 1-2 tbsp curry powder (mild or spicy, to taste)
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tsp salt (or to taste)

Vegetables, Legumes & Broth:

  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 1 medium zucchini or sweet potato, diced (optional)
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk (full-fat or light)
  • 2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
  • 2 cups kale, swiss chard, or spinach; stems removed and torn into bite-size pieces (optional)
  • 1 tbsp lime or lemon juice

Optional Add-ins:

  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup (to balance flavors, if needed)

For Serving:

  • Cooked rice, quinoa, or flatbread
  • Lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics:
    • Heat the coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat.
    • Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
    • Stir in the garlic, ginger and salt, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Toast the Spices:
    • Add the curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and cayenne (if using). Stir and cook for 1 minute to toast the spices and enhance their flavor.
  3. Cook the Vegetables:
    • Add the carrots, and optional zucchini or sweet potato. Stir to coat the vegetables in the spices.
  4. Simmer the Stew:
    • Add the chickpeas, coconut milk, and vegetable broth.
    • Stir well, bring to a simmer, and reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together.
  5. Add Greens & Final Touches:
    • Stir in the kale, swiss chard, or spinach and cook for 2–3 minutes until wilted.
    • Add lime or lemon juice and maple syrup (if using) to balance the flavors. Adjust seasoning with more salt as needed.
  6. Serve:
    • Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro.
    • Serve over cooked rice, quinoa, or with flatbread, and add lime wedges on the side.

Tips:

  • Make It Creamier: Blend half the stew using an immersion blender for a thicker texture.
  • Protein Boost: Add cooked lentils or tofu for extra protein.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.