Vegan Butternut Chickpea Stew – A Nutritious, Flavor-Packed Recipe
This butternut chickpea stew is a personal favorite, packed with layers of flavor and loaded with wholesome ingredients. It combines tender butternut squash, chickpeas, and warming spices for a satisfying, nourishing meal. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch or a cozy dinner, this vegan stew is perfect for any occasion.
Why Make Butternut Chickpea Stew?
Not only is this stew comforting and delicious, but it’s also full of nutrients. Butternut squash provides a boost of vitamins A and C, while chickpeas add plant-based protein and fiber. The addition of ginger, turmeric, and garlic offers anti-inflammatory benefits, making this a healing, hearty soup that’s easy to prepare and enjoy.
Ingredients
To make this warming stew, you’ll need:
1 red onion, diced
4 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 butternut squash, peeled and cubed
4 cups vegetable stock
2 cups tomato juice
1 can diced tomatoes
1 can chickpeas, drained
1/4 cup tamari or aminos
1/4 cup lime juice
1/4 cup maple or date syrup
1 tbsp ground coriander
1 tbsp minced ginger
1 tsp minced turmeric
1 tsp chopped green chili peppers
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 can lite coconut milk
1/2 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
Directions
Sauté the Vegetables: In a large stockpot, heat over medium and add the diced onion, sliced carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 10 minutes, adding a splash of vegetable broth if needed to prevent sticking.
Add the Butternut Squash: Stir in the cubed butternut squash and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
Simmer with Spices and Broth: Add the vegetable stock, tomato juice, diced tomatoes, chickpeas, tamari, lime juice, maple syrup, ground coriander, ginger, turmeric, green chili peppers, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 30 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender.
Finish with Coconut Milk and Cilantro: Remove the stew from heat and stir in the coconut milk for added creaminess. Serve topped with fresh cilantro.
Customizing Your Butternut Chickpea Stew
This stew is highly adaptable, so feel free to make it your own:
Add greens: Stir in a handful of spinach or kale just before serving for extra nutrients.
Make it spicy: Increase the amount of green chili peppers or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for more heat.
Swap the chickpeas: Try using other legumes like white beans or lentils for variety.
This vegan butternut chickpea stew is a delicious way to enjoy a nutrient-dense, flavorful meal that’s perfect for cooler days. With its rich spices and hearty vegetables, it’s a comforting dish that’s easy to make and packed with plant-based goodness. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a bowl of cozy, nourishing stew!