Healthy Crockpot Chickpea Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Chickpea Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can of diced tomatoes; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves of garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cups of vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon of olive oil; 1 teaspoon of cumin; 1 teaspoon of paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Fresh Collection

I love making this Healthy Crockpot Chickpea Stew when I want something warm and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a simple and nutritious dish that allows me to throw everything into the crockpot and let it simmer while I focus on my day. The combination of spices and fresh vegetables not only provides a delightful flavor but also fills my home with an inviting aroma. Plus, it's a fantastic way to incorporate more plant-based meals into my diet, and the leftovers are just as delicious the next day.

Created by

Hester Lockwood

Last updated on 2026-01-13T07:11:38.105Z

When I first tried making this stew, I knew I wanted something hearty yet healthy. The chickpeas provide protein, while the vegetables add plenty of vitamins. After several attempts, I learned that letting the ingredients soak in their own juices for hours really enhances the flavors. Using fresh herbs instead of dried ones delivers a burst of freshness that I can't get enough of!

During one cook, I added a splash of lemon juice right before serving, and it elevated the whole dish. The acidity brightens the flavors and adds a perfect finishing touch. If you're looking for a comforting dish that's also healthy, you'll surely adore this stew.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A filling and nutritious meal packed with plant-based protein
Rich flavors from a blend of fresh herbs and spices
Convenient one-pot cooking that saves time and effort

Ingredient Spotlight: Chickpeas

Chickpeas are the star of this stew, providing a hearty base. Not only are they rich in plant-based protein, but they also contribute fiber, which aids digestion and helps you feel full longer. Make sure to rinse them thoroughly before adding to the stew to remove excess sodium and enhance their flavor. If you're in a pinch, you can use dried chickpeas that have been soaked overnight; just adjust the cooking time accordingly, allowing for an extra hour or so in the crockpot to ensure they're tender.

Their texture adds a lovely creaminess to the stew as they cook down, thickening the broth without the need for added flours or thickeners. You can experiment with different varieties of chickpeas, such as black chickpeas or even lentils, for varied flavors and textures, though keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

Optimizing Flavor with Spices

In this recipe, cumin and paprika are key to achieving depth of flavor. Cumin has a warm, earthy taste, and to maximize its potential, you might toast the seeds in olive oil before adding them to the stew. This enhances their natural oils and elevates the spices' aroma, resulting in a richer overall taste. If smoked paprika is on hand, it can impart an even greater depth to the dish, offering a smoky undertone that pairs beautifully with the chickpeas.

Feel free to also experiment with additional spices like turmeric or coriander, which can introduce new flavor dimensions. Start with small amounts, tasting as you go, to find your perfect balance in this stew.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

This Healthy Crockpot Chickpea Stew is versatile in its serving options. You can ladle it over a bed of brown rice or quinoa for added texture and nutrition. For a light meal, serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. If you're looking for a comforting touch, pair it with crusty whole-grain bread for dipping, which also absorbs the delicious broth and enhances the experience.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. The flavors actually deepen as they sit, making it even tastier the next day. For longer storage, this stew freezes well; just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of water if needed to loosen the consistency.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can of diced tomatoes
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cups of vegetable broth
1 tablespoon of olive oil
1 teaspoon of cumin
1 teaspoon of paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, carrots, and bell pepper. Stir to mix well.

Combine in Crockpot

Transfer the mixture to a crockpot. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Cook the Stew

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours, until the vegetables are tender.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper during cooking.

Pro Tips

You can add other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition. Freezing leftovers makes for a quick meal later on.

Troubleshooting Cooking Times

If you're facing issues with cooking times, remember that crockpots vary in their heat levels. If your stew isn't achieving the tender vegetable texture you desire, you might need to check the appliance’s temperature settings. Cooking on low for the full six hours is ideal, but if you're using a newer model, it may cook faster than anticipated. Be sure to check the vegetables around the three-hour mark on high to avoid overcooking.

Conversely, if you find yourself pressed for time, you can still achieve great results by using pressure cooking methods. This will not only cut down the cooking time significantly but also lock in flavors, yielding a thick, rich stew perfect for quick dinners.

Making It Your Own

This stew is highly customizable based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Feel free to substitute the vegetables; zucchini, spinach, or sweet potatoes would be delightful additions. You can also increase the spice level by incorporating red pepper flakes or even a splash of hot sauce for a kick. Just remember to adjust the salt accordingly since some substitutions like canned vegetables can add sodium.

For a creamier texture, consider stirring in a splash of coconut milk right before serving. This complements the existing flavors while offering a tropical twist. Moreover, if you're following a low-sodium diet, opting for homemade vegetable broth is a great way to control the sodium content without sacrificing flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, you can, but you'll need to soak and cook them separately before adding to the crockpot.

→ How long can I store the leftover stew?

The stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and can be frozen for several months.

→ Is this stew gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free.

→ Can I add meat to this stew?

Absolutely! Chicken or sausage can be added for a non-vegetarian version.