Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew

Name: Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can coconut milk (400ml); 1 vegetable broth (500ml); Zest and juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Fresh Recipes

I stumbled upon this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew during a rainy afternoon when I was craving something rich yet refreshing. The combination of creaminess from coconut milk and zesty lemon really transformed a simple dish into something remarkable. By using chickpeas as the base, I incorporated protein into my meal without overwhelming the flavors. This stew not only satisfied my hunger but also left me feeling rejuvenated, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion, especially when I need a quick, hearty meal.

Created by

Greer Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-01-21T20:23:35.570Z

Creating this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew was a delightful journey. I experimented with a balance of spices and fresh ingredients, determined to achieve that perfect harmony between creamy and tangy. The addition of fresh herbs at the very end made a world of difference and elevated the dish to new heights.

While I was cooking, I realized that the secret lies in allowing the flavors to meld together before serving. I recommend letting it sit for a few minutes after cooking. This small tip enhances the overall taste, creating an unforgettable experience with each spoonful!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A perfect blend of creamy and zesty flavors that excite the palate
Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
Nutritious ingredients that are both hearty and satisfying

The Importance of Ingredients

In this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew, every ingredient plays a crucial role in the final flavor profile. The chickpeas are not only the base of this dish, providing a hearty texture and plant-based protein, but they also absorb the creamy coconut milk and zesty lemon, enhancing their natural nuttiness. Opt for high-quality canned chickpeas, as their consistency contributes significantly to the stew's richness. If you prefer a homemade touch, dried chickpeas can be pre-soaked and cooked for about 5 hours before being added to the stew.

Coconut milk serves as the creamy foundation, offering a luscious texture that contrasts beautifully with the acidity of the lemon. For a lighter version, you might consider substituting coconut milk with a plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk, though be mindful that this will alter the creaminess and flavor. If you're dairy-free or require a nut-free option, using oat cream can be an excellent substitute while still providing some richness.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

When sautéing the onion and garlic, aim for a gentle heat to prevent burning. Look for the onion to become translucent and slightly golden, which typically takes about 5 minutes. The addition of spices, especially cumin and smoked paprika, should be done just before adding the chickpeas. Allowing these spices to cook for a brief moment helps release their essential oils, enhancing the overall flavor of the stew. A good rule of thumb is to only sauté them until fragrant, about 2 minutes.

Simmering is where the magic truly happens. Keeping the stew at a gentle simmer—not a rolling boil—helps meld the flavors without losing the texture of the chickpeas. This low-and-slow approach for about 20 minutes allows the coconut milk to thicken slightly and the lemon's acidity to balance the richness. If your stew seems too thick, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth can help achieve the desired consistency.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This stew keeps well, making it an excellent candidate for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. I recommend reheating gently on the stove over low heat to maintain the stew's texture. If the stew thickens too much in the fridge, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth during reheating will help revive its creamy consistency.

When it comes to serving, this stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side of quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. For a bright finish, serve with a wedge of lemon alongside the garnished parsley. You can also elevate the dish by adding a scoop of cottage cheese or a sprinkle of feta for an extra layer of flavor. This stew is versatile enough to be customized with vegetables like spinach or kale, which can be stirred in right before serving for added nutrition.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew:

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can coconut milk (400ml)
1 vegetable broth (500ml)
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Once you have all your ingredients ready, it's time to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Add Chickpeas and Liquid

Add the drained chickpeas to the pot, followed by the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Season and Simmer

Add the lemon zest and juice, stirring to integrate the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Garnish and Serve

Once the stew is done, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your comforting stew with warm bread or rice!

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor of the stew even further, consider adding a splash of fresh lemon juice right before serving. This will brighten up the dish and make the lemon notes pop even more.

Flavor Variations

While the classic version of this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew is delightful, you can easily tailor it to your taste. For a bit of heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sauté stage. You might also explore adding fresh herbs like thyme or dill, which can brighten the stew further and offer a new flavor dimension. Experimenting with different spices will keep this dish exciting each time you whip it up.

If you're looking for a heartier stew, try adding chopped sweet potatoes or carrots along with the chickpeas. These vegetables can be sautéed with the onions and garlic, allowing their natural sweetness to develop. This not only adds nutrition but also enhances the overall flavor complexity of the dish, making it even more satisfying.

Chickpeas: The Nutritional Star

Chickpeas are not just a filler; they're a nutritional powerhouse. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, they are an excellent choice for a balanced meal. Their fiber content aids in digestion and provides a sense of fullness, making this stew both satisfying and beneficial for gut health. Additionally, chickpeas are rich in iron and folate, which are crucial for energy levels and overall vitality.

Incorporating chickpeas into your diet can be particularly beneficial for those following plant-based diets. They can replace meat in many recipes due to their substantial texture and protein profile. Plus, they adapt well to a variety of flavor profiles, which is evident in this stew where they soak up the creamy coconut and zesty lemon beautifully.

Freezing for Future Meals

For those who like to meal prep, this stew freezes exceptionally well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It's best to use airtight containers or freezer bags, as this helps prevent freezer burn. Storing in portions can make it easy to grab and go on busy days, ensuring you always have a wholesome meal at your fingertips.

To thaw, simply move the container to the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if necessary to regain the creamy consistency. This makes the stew not only a convenient option for busy evenings but also a smart way to minimize food waste while enjoying a hearty meal later.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew in advance?

Yes! This stew can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.

→ Is it possible to make this vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan, as it uses coconut milk and chickpeas without any animal products.

→ Can I add other vegetables to the stew?

Definitely! Feel free to incorporate veggies like spinach, kale, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, quinoa, or over a bed of rice.