Chickpea Tagine Recipe Vegetarian Delight Made Easy

Chickpea tagine is a vibrant, flavorful dish that perfectly captures the essence of Moroccan cuisine without the need for meat. This vegetarian recipe is not only hearty and satisfying but also packed with wholesome ingredients like chickpeas, tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just exploring plant-based options, this dish offers a comforting and nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare.

The beautiful medley of spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon combined with sweet apricots and fresh herbs creates a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. Simmered slowly, the ingredients meld into a rich, fragrant stew that pairs wonderfully with couscous or crusty bread.

Plus, it’s a fantastic recipe to make ahead and enjoy leftovers that taste even better the next day. Dive into this chickpea tagine recipe and bring a touch of North African magic to your dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian chickpea tagine is a perfect combination of flavors and textures, making it a standout dish for several reasons. First, it is incredibly nutritious, offering a great source of plant-based protein from chickpeas, along with fiber and essential vitamins from vegetables and spices.

Secondly, it’s incredibly versatile and easy to customize. You can add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices to suit your taste.

This recipe also requires minimal prep and cooks mostly on its own, making it ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals.

Finally, the tagine’s rich, complex flavors will impress even those who typically prefer meat-based dishes. It’s a cozy, comforting stew that invites you to savor every bite.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro and parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Juice of 1 lemon

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or tagine (if you have a traditional tagine, great, but a Dutch oven or deep skillet works fine)
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Knife and cutting board for prepping vegetables
• Lid for the pot

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in your pot or tagine over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
2. Add the garlic and ginger, stirring for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Mix in the spices: cumin, coriander, cinnamon, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to coat the onions and release the spices’ aroma, cooking for about 1 minute.
4. Add the sliced carrots and chopped red bell pepper to the pot. Stir to combine, letting the vegetables soften slightly for 3-4 minutes.
5. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices along with the vegetable broth. Stir well, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Add the chickpeas and chopped dried apricots to the pot. These add both protein and a lovely hint of sweetness to the dish.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the pot with the lid and let the tagine simmer gently for 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
8. Once the vegetables are tender and the sauce has thickened, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the fresh lemon juice, and adjust seasoning if needed.
9. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and parsley before serving to add a burst of color and freshness.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra depth of flavor, toast your spices lightly in the dry pot before adding oil and onions.”

You can customize this tagine by adding other vegetables such as zucchini, sweet potatoes, or eggplant depending on the season. For added richness, a handful of toasted almonds or pine nuts sprinkled on top works beautifully.

If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. For a tangy twist, add a spoonful of harissa or preserved lemons.

Want to add more protein? Try stirring in some cooked lentils or cubed tofu towards the end of cooking.

Leftovers taste even better after a day as the flavors deepen, so consider making this ahead for an easy meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This chickpea tagine pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Traditional couscous is a classic choice that soaks up the flavorful sauce perfectly.

You can also serve it with fluffy quinoa or warm crusty bread to scoop up every last bit.

A dollop of plain yogurt or a vegan alternative on top adds a creamy contrast to the spices. Freshly chopped herbs like cilantro or mint brighten the dish and enhance the aroma.

For a complete meal, pair this tagine with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. If you’re interested in exploring more vegetarian delights, check out our Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for a great side option.

Conclusion

This vegetarian chickpea tagine recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful, nutritious meal inspired by Moroccan cuisine. Its blend of spices, sweet apricots, and hearty chickpeas makes it both comforting and exciting to your palate.

Whether you’re a longtime vegetarian or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your routine, this tagine is a delicious choice that won’t disappoint.

With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s perfect for busy cooks and those who love to meal prep. Don’t forget to experiment with the spices and vegetables to make it your own.

For more wholesome recipes that balance flavor and nutrition, explore our collection including the Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe and the hearty Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe. Enjoy the vibrant tastes of this chickpea tagine and bring a little Moroccan sunshine to your kitchen!

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