Creamy Tomato Chickpea Stew

Name: Creamy Tomato Chickpea Stew
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love warm, comforting meals that are both easy to make and full of flavor, and this Creamy Tomato Chickpea Stew is a standout in my kitchen. With its rich blend of tomatoes and chickpeas, it’s the perfect dish for weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead. The creaminess is achieved simply through the use of coconut milk, which adds depth without overwhelming the natural flavors. Each spoonful is packed with hearty goodness, making it not only satisfying but also nutritious.

Created by

Daisy Webb

Last updated on 2026-01-18T02:07:12.097Z

After trying numerous recipes for chickpea stew, I finally settled on this creamy version that has a perfect balance of spices and textures. The trick is to sauté the onions and garlic until they're golden before adding the tomatoes; it enhances the sweetness and depth of flavor. I used canned chickpeas for convenience, making this a quick and accessible meal.

To elevate its creaminess, I blend in some coconut milk towards the end of cooking. This not only adds richness but also makes the stew delightfully luxurious without any heavy dairy. Trust me, it’s a treat that will warm you up from the inside out!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Comforting and hearty dish perfect for chilly nights
Rich, creamy texture thanks to the coconut milk
Nutritious and packed with protein from chickpeas

      

Ingredient Spotlight: Chickpeas

Chickpeas are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, making them a star ingredient in this Creamy Tomato Chickpea Stew. Not only do they help to create a comforting, hearty texture, but they also enhance the nutritional profile of the dish. If you're looking to increase the fiber content, choose larger chickpeas, as they tend to provide more bulk and a better bite. If you only have dried chickpeas on hand, just remember to soak and cook them beforehand, which will take a little preparation time but yields even better flavor.

In terms of flavor, chickpeas have a mildly nutty taste that beautifully complements the tomatoes and spices. They also absorb the delicious flavors of the coconut milk and spices, ensuring every bite is packed with richness. To experiment with this recipe, consider adding crushed chickpeas to thicken the stew further or blending a portion for a smoother texture. This flexibility allows you to customize the dish to your taste preference.

Perfecting the Creamy Texture

The use of coconut milk is essential in achieving the stew's creamy texture without overpowering the other ingredients. When adding the coconut milk, let it simmer gently to prevent curdling, which can happen if it's cooked at too high a temperature. You'll know it's ready when it has thickened slightly and becomes glossy. Make sure to choose a full-fat coconut milk for the richest flavor; light coconut milk may yield a thinner, less satisfying consistency.

If you're aiming for a different flavor profile, you can substitute the coconut milk with other dairy or non-dairy creams, such as cashew cream or a light heavy cream. However, do keep in mind the stew's overall flavor will change, so it’s best to adjust your spices accordingly if you do switch things up. This allows for incredible variations, whether you're looking to match dietary needs or infuse a new twist into your meal.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish, if desired

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add the Tomatoes and Chickpeas

Next, pour in the canned diced tomatoes along with their juices and add the chickpeas. Stir well to combine the ingredients.

Season and Simmer

Add the coconut milk, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, then bring to a simmer. Allow the stew to cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve and Garnish

Once the stew is thickened and flavorful, remove it from heat. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking. This stew also freezes well, so consider making a double batch for easy future meals.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Tomato Chickpea Stew makes an excellent make-ahead meal. After preparing the stew, allow it to cool completely before transfering to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to four days, making it perfect for meal prepping. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, resulting in an even more delicious dish when you reheat it.

To reheat, simply place it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If you find it too thick for your liking after refrigeration, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it. You can also freeze the stew for up to three months; just remember to leave a little room in the container for expansion.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving this stew, I recommend pairing it with some warm, crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up the rich sauce. You can elevate the dish by topping it with a dollop of yogurt or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, which complements the stew’s creaminess beautifully. For an added crunch, consider serving it with toasted pita chips on the side.

If you're looking to sneak in more veggies, serve the stew alongside a simple spinach salad or roasted vegetables. This approach not only adds color to your meal but also boosts nutritional content. Feel free to play around with the garnish; fresh herbs like parsley or mint can provide a refreshing finish that enhances the overall flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, but you'll need to soak and cook them beforehand. Make sure to add them at the beginning of cooking.

→ Is there a substitute for coconut milk?

You can use almond milk or any plant-based milk, but the stew may not be as creamy.

→ Can I add other vegetables to the stew?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition.

→ How long will the stew last in the fridge?

It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in an airtight container.