Magic happens in the heart of the kitchen when you combine the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes with the hearty, slightly nutty flavor of chickpeas. Add a hint of the exotic with a Moroccan-spiced ras el hanout, a unique blend of aromatic spices, and you've got a stew that's packed with layers of flavor. This Moroccan-spiced sweet potato and chickpea stew recipe is a delightful fusion of taste and nutrition that will surely impress.
While most of the ingredients used in this recipe are commonly found in your pantry, ras el hanout might be a new item to some. It is a Moroccan spice blend that includes a melody of spices like cumin, coriander, ginger, and cinnamon. It infuses an exotic flavor in dishes and is a key ingredient in this stew. If it's not readily available in your local store, you can find it at a specialty spice store or shop online.
Moroccan-spiced Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew Ingredients
Olive oil: This is used in sautéing. It adds a mild flavor and facilitates even cooking.
Onion: Adds a mild sweetness and depth of flavor to the stew.
Ginger: Adds a spicy, aromatic note.
Ras el hanout: A Moroccan spice blend that infuses the exotic flavor.
Carrots, Parsnips, Sweet potatoes: These root vegetables add texture and a natural sweetness.
Roasted red peppers: Adds a smoky flavor and vibrant color.
Lemon zest: Provides a fresh citrus note.
Apricots: These contribute a sweet-tart flavor.
Water: The base of the stew, it helps in combining all the flavors.
Chickpeas: Adds a hearty texture and is a good source of protein.
Baby kale: Adds color, texture, and is a rich source of vitamins.
Lemon wedges, Jalapeño peppers, Cilantro, Yogurt: These are optional garnishes that add a kick of flavor, freshness, and creaminess.
One reader, Hanson Veal says:
This Moroccan-spiced sweet potato and chickpea stew recipe is a game-changer! The blend of spices creates an explosion of flavors, and the sweet potatoes and chickpeas make it hearty and satisfying. It's a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and nutritious meal.
Techniques Required for Moroccan-Spiced Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew
Sauté the onions: Cook the onions in olive oil over medium-low heat until they begin to turn translucent, stirring often to avoid browning too much.
Add in the ginger and ras el hanout: Sauté the ginger and 2 tablespoons of ras el hanout for another 1 minute, stirring often.
Adjust the heat as needed: Maintain a low boil while cooking the stew, adjusting the heat as necessary.
Taste the stew and adjust seasoning: After adding the chickpeas, taste the stew and add salt, pepper, and more ras el hanout to preferred taste.
Stir in the fresh greens just before serving: Gently stir in the fresh greens until wilted just before serving.
How To Make Spiced Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew
Hearty and loaded with flavor, this chickpea stew is ready in 30 minutes, veggies flavored with a Moroccan spice blend made of cumin, ginger, and cinnamon.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Ras el Hanout spice mix:
- 1½tbspground cumin
- ¾tbspcoriander
- ¾tbspground ginger
- 2tspcinnamon
- 2tspturmeric
- 1tspred chili,crushed (for a spicy stew), or 1 tsp mild paprika
For Stew:
- 2tbspolive oil
- 1large onion,(6 to 8 oz) diced
- 3tbspfresh ginger,grated
- 2tbspRas el Hanout
- 5medium carrots,(about 1 lb) sliced
- 1medium parsnip,(about ¾ lb) diced
- 2medium sweet potatoes,(about 1 lb) peeled, cubed
- 2roasted red peppers,from a jar, or homemade, diced
- 1tbsplemon zest,grated
- ½cupapricots,dried, roughly chopped
- 4cupswater,or broth
- 15ozchickpeas,(1 can) rinsed, drained
- 8cupsbaby kale,or baby spinach
For Optional Garnish:
- lemon wedges,to garnish, optional
- jalapeno peppers,sliced, to garnish, optional
- cilantro,chopped, to garnish, optional
- vegan or regular yogurt,to serve, optional
Instructions
Ras el Hanout:
-
Whisk all the spices together until well-combined. This will make a little more than ¼ cup of the spice mix.
-
Use 2 tablespoons for this recipe, then store the remaining in an air-tight container for up to 1 year.
-
Sauté the onions in olive oil over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes, until the onions begin to turn translucent.
-
Stir often to avoid browning too much.
-
Add in the ginger and 2 tablespoons of Ras el Hanout and sauté for another 1 minute, stirring often.
-
Add in the carrots, parsnips, sweet potatoes, peppers, lemon zest, apricots, and broth or water, and stir well.
-
Turn heat to medium to medium-high, and cover.
-
Cook for 10 minutes. The stew should be bubbling at a low boil during this time.
-
Adjust the heat as needed to maintain a low boil.
-
Remove the lid, add the chickpeas, and cook for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until parsnips and sweet potatoes are quite soft and just starting to break down.
-
Taste the stew, and add salt, pepper, and more Ras el Hanout to preferred taste.
-
Just before serving, stir in the fresh greens.
-
Stir gently until the greens are wilted.
-
Serve with fresh cilantro, a spoonful of yogurt (either vegan or dairy), sliced chili, and lemon wedges.
Nutrition
- Calories: 262.83kcal
- Fat: 6.05g
- Saturated Fat: 0.74g
- Trans Fat: 0.00g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2.90g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.62g
- Carbohydrates: 44.52g
- Fiber: 9.98g
- Sugar: 10.17g
- Protein: 10.83g
- Sodium: 57.59mg
- Calcium: 90.96mg
- Potassium: 715.63mg
- Iron: 3.82mg
- Vitamin A: 500.33µg
- Vitamin C: 43.93mg
Technique Tip for Perfecting Moroccan-Spiced Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew
When preparing the ras el hanout spice mix, it's important to thoroughly mix the spices together to ensure a balanced flavor profile. Using a whisk can help to evenly distribute the spices. Additionally, storing the leftover spice mix in an airtight container will help to maintain its freshness and potency, making it a handy blend to have on hand for future recipes.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Moroccan-Spiced Stew
Prep ahead: Chop and measure all the ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pot wonder: Consider using a pressure cooker or slow cooker to save time and effort in preparing the stew.
Canned chickpeas: Opt for canned chickpeas instead of dried ones to skip the soaking and cooking process.
Frozen veggies: Use frozen chopped vegetables to save time on peeling and chopping.
Store-bought spice mix: Consider using a pre-made ras el hanout spice mix to save time on measuring and mixing individual spices.
Quick wilt: Instead of waiting for the greens to wilt in the stew, consider quickly blanching them separately before adding to the dish.
Batch cooking: Make a larger batch and freeze individual portions for quick and convenient future meals.
Efficient multitasking: While the stew is simmering, use that time to prepare any optional garnishes or side dishes.
Substitute Ingredients For Moroccan-Spiced Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew Recipe
ground cumin - Substitute with ground caraway seeds: Caraway seeds have a similar earthy and slightly nutty flavor to cumin, making them a suitable substitute in the ras el hanout spice mix.
coriander - Substitute with ground fennel seeds: Fennel seeds have a mild licorice flavor similar to coriander, making them a good alternative in the ras el hanout spice mix.
ground ginger - Substitute with freshly grated ginger: Freshly grated ginger can be used as a substitute for ground ginger, providing a more intense and fresher flavor to the stew.
cinnamon - Substitute with allspice: Allspice can be used as a substitute for cinnamon, providing a warm and slightly peppery flavor to the stew.
turmeric - Substitute with ground mustard: Ground mustard can be used as a substitute for turmeric, providing a similar yellow color and a slightly pungent flavor to the stew.
red chili - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can be used as a substitute for red chili, adding heat and a vibrant red color to the stew.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil can be used as a substitute for olive oil, providing a mild flavor and high smoke point for cooking the stew.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for onions, providing a milder and sweeter flavor to the stew.
fresh ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used as a substitute for fresh ginger, providing a similar flavor profile and aroma to the stew.
carrots - Substitute with butternut squash: Butternut squash can be used as a substitute for carrots, providing a sweet and nutty flavor to the stew.
parsnip - Substitute with turnip: Turnips can be used as a substitute for parsnips, providing a similar earthy and slightly sweet flavor to the stew.
sweet potatoes - Substitute with acorn squash: Acorn squash can be used as a substitute for sweet potatoes, providing a creamy and slightly sweet flavor to the stew.
roasted red peppers - Substitute with fire-roasted tomatoes: Fire-roasted tomatoes can be used as a substitute for roasted red peppers, providing a smoky and slightly sweet flavor to the stew.
lemon zest - Substitute with orange zest: Orange zest can be used as a substitute for lemon zest, providing a citrusy and slightly sweet flavor to the stew.
apricots - Substitute with dried figs: Dried figs can be used as a substitute for apricots, providing a sweet and chewy texture to the stew.
water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for water, providing added flavor and depth to the stew.
chickpeas - Substitute with cannellini beans: Cannellini beans can be used as a substitute for chickpeas, providing a creamy texture and mild flavor to the stew.
baby kale - Substitute with spinach: Spinach can be used as a substitute for baby kale, providing a tender and mild green to the stew.
lemon wedges - Substitute with lime wedges: Lime wedges can be used as a substitute for lemon wedges, providing a tangy and citrusy garnish for the stew.
jalapeño peppers - Substitute with serrano peppers: Serrano peppers can be used as a substitute for jalapeño peppers, providing a similar level of heat and flavor to the stew.
cilantro - Substitute with flat-leaf parsley: Flat-leaf parsley can be used as a substitute for cilantro, providing a fresh and slightly peppery garnish for the stew.
vegan or regular yogurt - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can be used as a substitute for yogurt, providing a creamy and slightly sweet addition to the stew.
Presenting a Flavorful Moroccan-Spiced Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew
Elevate the plating: Carefully arrange the stew in a shallow bowl, ensuring that each ingredient is visible and well-distributed. The presentation should be visually appealing and balanced.
Garnish with precision: Sprinkle a pinch of finely chopped cilantro over the stew, ensuring it's evenly distributed. This adds a pop of color and a fresh, aromatic element to the dish.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a small dollop of vegan or dairy yogurt on top of the stew. Use the back of a spoon to create a gentle swirl for an elegant touch.
Add a touch of heat: Place a thinly sliced jalapeño pepper on the side of the bowl. This not only adds a hint of spiciness but also contributes to the overall visual appeal.
Lemon wedge placement: Gently place a small lemon wedge on the rim of the bowl. This adds a bright, citrusy element that can be squeezed over the stew just before eating.
Attention to detail: Ensure the rim of the bowl is clean and free of any spills or smudges, presenting a polished and professional appearance.
Balance and harmony: Pay attention to the overall composition, ensuring that the colors, shapes, and garnishes complement each other to create a visually stunning presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Moroccan-Spiced Stew
- Cutting board: Used for chopping and preparing ingredients.
- Chef's knife: Essential for cutting and slicing various ingredients with precision.
- Large pot: Used for cooking the stew and simmering the ingredients.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the stew and ensuring even cooking.
- Measuring spoons: Used for accurate measurement of spices and seasonings.
- Measuring cups: Essential for precise measurement of liquids and dry ingredients.
- Vegetable peeler: Used for peeling the carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes.
- Grater: Useful for grating fresh ginger and lemon zest.
- Can opener: Needed for opening the canned chickpeas.
- Saucepan: Used for roasting the red peppers.
- Whisk: Essential for mixing the ras el hanout spice blend.
- Ladle: Used for serving the stew.
- Tongs: Useful for handling and serving the roasted red peppers.
- Citrus zester: Ideal for zesting lemons.
- Colander: Used for draining and rinsing the canned chickpeas.
- Soup bowls: For serving the finished stew.
- Serving spoon: Used for serving the stew onto individual plates or bowls.
Storing and Freezing Moroccan-Spiced Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew
This stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Simply reheat in a pot on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
To freeze, allow the stew to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen stew in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in a pot on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to thin out the consistency if it has thickened during freezing.
If you plan on freezing the stew, consider leaving out the baby kale and adding it fresh when reheating. This will help maintain the texture and color of the greens.
For best results, store the stew without any garnishes like yogurt, cilantro, or jalapeño peppers. Add these fresh when serving to maintain their quality and flavor.
How To Reheat Leftover Moroccan-Spiced Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew
Stovetop method: transfer the leftover stew to a saucepan and reheat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through. This method allows you to control the temperature and ensure that the sweet potatoes and chickpeas are evenly warmed without becoming mushy. If the stew appears too thick, add a splash of water or vegetable broth to achieve the desired consistency.
Microwave method: place the desired portion of leftover stew in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval, until the stew is heated through. Be careful when removing the cover, as steam may escape and cause burns.
Oven method: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover stew to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the stew is heated through. Stir the stew halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating. This method is particularly useful if you have a large quantity of leftover stew to reheat.
Slow cooker method: if you have a slow cooker or crockpot, you can use it to reheat your leftover moroccan-spiced sweet potato and chickpea stew. Transfer the stew to the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Cover and let the stew reheat for 1-2 hours, or until it's heated through. This method is convenient if you want to reheat the stew while you're busy with other tasks.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to stir the stew well to distribute the heat evenly and prevent any hot spots. Taste the reheated stew and adjust the seasoning if needed, as flavors may have mellowed during storage. If the stew appears too thick, add a small amount of water or vegetable broth to achieve the desired consistency. Serve the reheated stew with fresh cilantro, a dollop of yogurt, sliced jalapeño peppers, and lemon wedges for a burst of fresh flavor.
Random Fact About Moroccan-Spiced Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew
The Moroccan-spiced sweet potato and chickpea stew is a hearty and nutritious dish that combines the flavors of ras el hanout spice mix with the sweetness of apricots and the earthiness of chickpeas. This stew is a great source of fiber, vitamins, and plant-based protein, making it a satisfying and healthy meal option. Additionally, the combination of spices and ingredients in this stew reflects the rich culinary heritage of Moroccan cuisine, known for its bold and aromatic flavors.
Is Making Moroccan-Spiced Stew at Home Economical?
This Moroccan-spiced sweet potato and chickpea stew recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The combination of chickpeas, sweet potatoes, and carrots makes it a budget-friendly option. The use of affordable spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric adds depth of flavor without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it an economical and nutritious choice. Overall Verdict: 9/10
Is This Moroccan-Spiced Stew Healthy or Unhealthy?
The Moroccan-spiced sweet potato and chickpea stew is a nutritious and flavorful dish that offers several health benefits. The recipe is packed with nutrient-dense ingredients such as:
- Sweet potatoes: Rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber
- Chickpeas: High in protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals
- Carrots and parsnips: Excellent sources of vitamin A, vitamin C, and dietary fiber
- Kale: Loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants and minerals
The use of olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats, while the absence of meat makes this dish suitable for vegans and vegetarians. The Ras el Hanout spice mix adds depth and complexity to the stew without relying on excessive salt or unhealthy additives.
To further enhance the nutritional value of this already healthy stew, consider the following suggestions:
- Increase the variety of vegetables by adding bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant to boost the fiber and nutrient content
- Replace some of the water with low-sodium vegetable broth to enhance the flavor without increasing the sodium content significantly
- Serve the stew with a side of whole grain couscous or quinoa to provide additional protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates
- Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped nuts, such as almonds or pistachios, to add healthy fats and a crunchy texture
Editor's Thoughts on This Flavorful Moroccan-Spiced Stew Recipe
The Moroccan-spiced sweet potato and chickpea stew recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The aromatic ras el hanout spice blend infuses the dish with warmth and depth, complementing the sweetness of the vegetables and the earthiness of the chickpeas. The addition of apricots lends a subtle fruity note, while the baby kale brings a fresh, vibrant element. The optional garnishes of cilantro, yogurt, and lemon wedges provide a refreshing contrast to the rich stew. Overall, this recipe offers a harmonious balance of spices and ingredients, resulting in a satisfying and nourishing dish.
Enhance Your Moroccan-Spiced Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Alternative Recipes Similar to This Moroccan-Spiced Stew
Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Moroccan-Spiced Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew
Why trust this Moroccan-Spiced Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful blend of Moroccan spices and wholesome ingredients, ensuring a flavorful and satisfying dish. The use of ras el hanout spice mix infuses the stew with aromatic and exotic flavors, while the inclusion of sweet potatoes and chickpeas provides a hearty and nutritious base. The addition of fresh ginger and lemon zest further enhances the dish's vibrant and zesty profile. With a harmonious balance of spices and vegetables, this recipe promises a delightful culinary experience that's both comforting and nourishing.
Was this page helpful?
Have your own special recipe to share? Submit Your Recipe Today!
Related Recipes
Ham Hock and Chickpea Stew Recipe
Moroccan Ground Lamb Stew with Chickpeas Recipe
Chorizo & Chickpea Stew Recipe
Mini Power Pork Patty Recipe
Dairy-Free Mac ‘N’ “Cheese” Recipe
Green Chile Enchiladas Recipe
Spaghettini with Pesto Tomatoes and Eggplant Recipe
Grilled Chicken and Asparagus Salad with Parsley Pesto Recipe
Blueberry Jam in the Microwave // Cookbook Recipe
Grilled Scallops Over Mixed-Green and Herb Salad Recipe
Grilled Sea Scallops Recipe
