This hearty Spicy Potato Chickpea Stew is a cozy, flavor-packed meal perfect for any day of the week.
Loaded with protein-rich chickpeas, fiber-filled potatoes, and nutrient-dense greens, it’s a plant-based powerhouse that supports digestion and keeps you full longer.
Quick to prepare, naturally vegan, and low in saturated fat, it’s ideal for easy weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Hearty Spicy Potato Chickpea Stew
Equipment
- 1 large soup pot
- Cutting board
- Chef’s Knife
- Measuring Spoons
- Can opener
- Immersion blender (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 small red onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- 2 jalapeno peppers diced
- 2 tsp sweet paprika
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp turmeric
- 4 medium gold potatoes cubed
- 1 15 oz can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 15 oz can fire-roasted tomatoes
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- Handful of spinach or other greens
- Optional garnishes: fresh lime juice scallion tops, or cilantro
Instructions
- Prep Your Vegetables: Start by preparing all your vegetables to ensure smooth cooking. Dice the small red onion into fine pieces so they cook evenly and release their natural sweetness. Mince the garlic cloves carefully, making sure the pieces are small enough to distribute flavor throughout the stew. Chop the red bell pepper and jalapeno peppers into bite-sized cubes. Finally, peel (if desired) and cube the gold potatoes into roughly 1-inch pieces for even cooking. Having all ingredients prepped first makes the cooking process much more organized.
- Sauté Aromatics: Place a large soup pot on medium heat and add a splash of water or vegetable broth to prevent sticking. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and fragrant, and the garlic is lightly golden. This step builds the foundation of flavor for the stew. Be careful not to overcook the garlic as it can turn bitter.
- Cook the Peppers: Next, add the diced red bell pepper and jalapeno peppers to the sautéed onion and garlic mixture. Stir well to combine, letting the vegetables soften over 3–4 minutes. The peppers will release a subtle sweetness and mild heat that balances the stew. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure all sides cook evenly.
- Toast the Spices: Once the vegetables are soft, it’s time to add the spices sweet paprika, smoked paprika, cumin, and turmeric. Sprinkle them evenly over the sautéed vegetables. Stir constantly for about one minute to toast the spices lightly. This step enhances the aroma and deepens the flavor, giving the stew a rich, warm base.
- Combine Main Ingredients: Add the cubed potatoes, drained chickpeas, and fire-roasted tomatoes into the pot. Pour in the 4 cups of low-sodium vegetable broth. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients, making sure the potatoes and chickpeas are fully submerged. This step ensures even cooking and allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Bring to a Boil and Simmer: Raise the heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Let the stew simmer for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. During simmering, the flavors intensify, and the chickpeas and potatoes soak up the spices and tomato richness. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking at the bottom.
- Thicken the Stew (Optional): If you prefer a thicker, creamier consistency, blend a portion of the stew. You can use an immersion blender directly in the pot for a few seconds or carefully transfer 3–4 ladles into a blender, then return the blended portion to the pot. Stir well to incorporate. This step gives the stew a satisfying texture without needing any cream or dairy, keeping it vegan-friendly.
- Add Greens: Finally, add a handful of fresh spinach or your choice of greens to the simmering stew. Stir gently for 1–2 minutes until the greens wilt but retain their vibrant color. This step adds a fresh, nutritious touch and enhances the visual appeal of the dish.
- Taste and Adjust Seasonings: Before serving, taste the stew and adjust seasonings as needed. Add a pinch of salt or a squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors. You can also add freshly cracked black pepper or additional paprika if you desire more depth and heat.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve the stew hot in bowls, garnished with chopped scallion tops, fresh cilantro, or an extra squeeze of lime juice. Pair with crusty bread, rice, or enjoy as a standalone meal. This final presentation step not only enhances the flavor but also makes the dish look inviting and restaurant-quality.
Notes
- Use medium-gold potatoes for a creamy texture without turning mushy.
- Drain and rinse canned chickpeas to reduce sodium and remove excess liquid.
- Adjust the number of jalapenos according to your preferred spice level.
- Fire-roasted tomatoes add a smoky depth, but plain diced tomatoes work in a pinch.
- You can thicken the stew by blending some potatoes and chickpeas, or leave it brothy.
- Fresh greens like spinach, kale, or Swiss chard add color, flavor, and nutrition.
- Serve immediately or allow flavors to meld by refrigerating for a few hours.
Chef’s Secrets: Unlocking Maximum Flavor
The secret to this stew’s rich, satisfying taste lies in layering flavors carefully.
Start by sautéing onions and garlic to release their natural sweetness.
Toasting the spices briefly before adding liquids unlocks their essential oils, enhancing aroma and depth.
Fire-roasted tomatoes give a subtle smokiness, but if unavailable, lightly roasting canned tomatoes in a pan first can replicate the effect.
Blending a portion of the stew not only thickens it but also amplifies the flavors, creating a creamy, luxurious texture without dairy.
Lastly, always finish with fresh greens and a squeeze of lime or fresh herbs to balance the spices and add brightness.
Serving Suggestions: Delicious Meal Ideas
This stew is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments.
Serve it over steamed rice or quinoa for a complete, hearty meal.
It’s also fantastic with warm crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the flavorful broth.
For added protein, top with roasted nuts, seeds, or a dollop of plant-based yogurt.
Garnishing with fresh cilantro, scallion tops, or a squeeze of lime enhances both flavor and visual appeal.
This stew works well as a main dish, side, or even as part of a cozy family-style spread.
Storage Tips: Keep Stew Fresh Longer
This stew stores exceptionally well and makes an excellent meal-prep option.
Allow the stew to cool to room temperature before transferring to airtight containers.
It will keep in the refrigerator for 4–5 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
When reheating, warm gently over low heat and add a splash of broth or water if it thickened too much.
Fresh greens are best added just before serving when reheating to maintain color, texture, and nutrients.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this stew spicier or milder?
Absolutely! Adjust the number of jalapenos or remove seeds to reduce heat. Adding a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes can increase spiciness. Taste and adjust as you go to ensure it matches your preference.
2. Can I use other vegetables instead of potatoes?
Yes! Sweet potatoes, butternut squash, or carrots work wonderfully as substitutes or additions. Choose firm vegetables that hold shape during simmering for the best texture.
3. How can I make this stew thicker?
Blend a portion of the stew using an immersion blender or regular blender, then stir back in. You can also mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot for a naturally creamy consistency.
4. Can I prepare this stew ahead of time?
Yes, this stew is ideal for meal prep. Make it a day in advance to allow flavors to develop. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding fresh greens right before serving for best results.
5. What can I serve with this stew?
Pair with grains like rice, quinoa, or couscous, or with bread such as sourdough or flatbreads.
Fresh toppings like cilantro, lime juice, or scallions enhance flavor, while roasted nuts or seeds add crunch and protein.
