Healthy Crockpot Chickpea Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Chickpea Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups chickpeas, soaked and drained; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon turmeric; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups spinach, chopped

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Food Collection

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Chickpea Stew! It’s the perfect hearty meal for any busy day, allowing me to toss everything in the slow cooker and go about my day. By the time I'm ready to sit down for dinner, the flavors have melded beautifully, making each bite incredibly satisfying. The combination of spices and vegetables creates a warm, comforting dish that’s not only nutritious but also vegan-friendly. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience this flavor-packed adventure!

Created by

Prudence Whitby

Last updated on 2026-01-11T21:57:35.655Z

When I first tried making chickpea stew in my crockpot, I wasn't sure how the flavors would come together. To my surprise, the slow cooking process allowed the spices to develop a rich, comforting flavor that made me a fan instantly. I used a mix of vegetables that I had on hand, and it turned out to be a delicious twist on traditional stews, proving that you can create something wonderful without a lot of effort.

One thing I discovered while experimenting with this recipe is the importance of seasoning. I recommend tasting towards the end of cooking and adjusting the spices to your preference. This small step can elevate the dish beyond expectations, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Trust me; once you try it, this stew will be a regular in your household!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with protein and fiber from chickpeas
Effortless one-pot meal that saves time
Versatile recipe perfect for customizing your favorite veggies

Perfecting the Stew's Flavor

The combination of spices in this stew not only imparts rich flavor but also contributes to its health benefits. Cumin adds a warm, earthy note, while paprika offers a subtle sweetness that balances the dish. Turmeric, with its vibrant color, brings anti-inflammatory properties and a distinct earthy flavor. To enhance these flavors further, consider toasting the spices in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes before adding them to the crockpot. This step can elevate the overall taste by releasing essential oils and intensifying the spices' aromas.

Don’t hesitate to adjust the spice levels according to your preference! If you enjoy a bit of heat, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes can give the stew a delightful kick. Remember to taste as you go. Adjusting the seasoning mid-cooking can help achieve that perfect balance, especially since the chickpeas will absorb the flavors from the broth and spices as they cook.

Vegetable Variations and Additions

This stew is incredibly flexible when it comes to vegetables. If you have leftover veggies in your fridge, such as zucchini or bell peppers, feel free to toss them in! Just be aware that adding faster-cooking vegetables like spinach or peas may require different cooking times. Aim to add them in the last 15-30 minutes to prevent overcooking and losing their freshness. For a heartier version, you can add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes at the beginning, as they will cook down and complement the chickpeas nicely.

For those looking to elevate the stew, consider stirring in a tablespoon of miso paste right before serving. It adds a depth of umami that works marvelously with the chickpeas and broth. Alternatively, a splash of lemon juice before serving can brighten up the flavors significantly. Remember, the key to a great stew is layering flavors, so think creatively with the ingredients you have on hand.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 cups chickpeas, soaked and drained
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon turmeric
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups spinach, chopped

Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In your crockpot, combine the soaked chickpeas, diced onion, chopped carrots, chopped celery, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth.

Add Spices

Stir in cumin, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until chickpeas are tender.

Finish with Spinach

About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the chopped spinach and let it wilt.

Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try substituting the vegetable broth with homemade broth or adding a splash of lemon juice before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Healthy Crockpot Chickpea Stew is ideal for meal prep. After cooking, let it cool to room temperature before transferring to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the stew, as it tends to thicken when stored. Gently reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid overheating.

If you plan to freeze portions, consider freezing them in single servings. This makes it easy to have a healthy meal on hand whenever you need it. Just make sure to label the containers with the date and contents. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned previously. This method not only saves you time but also helps the stew’s flavors deepen as it sits.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve the chickpea stew over a bed of cooked quinoa or rice. These grains add a nutty flavor and help absorb the delicious broth. Additionally, consider offering a side of crusty whole-grain bread for dipping, which complements the stew beautifully. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro right before serving adds a fresh note that enhances the overall dish.

If you're entertaining or want to add some sophistication, pairing the stew with a light salad can balance the meal. A simple salad of mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the stew. For a bit of crunch, top with toasted nuts or seeds, which not only provides extra texture but also boosts the nutritional value of your meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried?

Yes, you can use canned chickpeas; however, reduce the cooking time as they're already cooked.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Can I freeze the stew?

Absolutely! Freeze in portions, and it will last for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

This stew pairs well with rice, crusty bread, or a simple green salad.