Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew

Name: Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; 1 cup vegetable broth; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Wholesome Healthy Meals Inspiration

I absolutely love this creamy lemon chickpea stew! The combination of chickpeas and a tangy lemon sauce creates a comforting yet refreshing dish. It's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, as it comes together in under 30 minutes. The creamy base, made from coconut milk and spices, gives it a rich texture that's both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, you'll find that this recipe is simple to whip up and packed with flavor, making it a delightful addition to any meal rotation.

Created by

Honoria Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-19T23:13:34.810Z

When I first made this lemon chickpea stew, I was surprised by how quickly it came together. The vibrant flavors of lemon and spices create a delicious harmony that makes every bite memorable. I used fresh herbs to elevate the dish, and I can't recommend it enough!

One key tip I discovered is to let the stew simmer a bit longer after adding the coconut milk. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a truly creamy and satisfying stew. Always taste and adjust seasoning to make it your own!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright, zesty flavor that awakens your taste buds
Rich, creamy texture that's both comforting and light
Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each component of this creamy lemon chickpea stew plays a crucial role in creating its unique flavor profile. Chickpeas are not only a great source of protein and fiber, but they also absorb the flavors of the spices and lemon, enriching each bite. The coconut milk adds a velvety texture and a subtle sweetness that balances the tanginess of the lemon, making it a harmonious dish. Opt for full-fat coconut milk for a richer experience, or light coconut milk if you're looking for a lower-calorie option without sacrificing too much creaminess.

Using fresh garlic and onions enhances the stew's aromatic base and provides depth to the flavor. Make sure to sauté them until they are translucent and fragrant. This step is essential as it releases their natural sugars, creating a slight caramelization that complements the spices. If you have shallots on hand, they can be a delightful substitute for the onion, adding a nuanced sweetness that pairs well with the lemon.

Cooking Techniques to Perfect Your Stew

The simmering stage of this stew is where the magic happens. Allowing the stew to simmer for about 10 minutes melds the flavors beautifully. During this time, keep an eye on the heat; you want a gentle simmer rather than a rolling boil. If you notice the stew bubbling too vigorously, lower the heat to maintain a consistent temperature. This will ensure the chickpeas remain intact while the soup thickens slightly and the ingredients harmonize.

For added texture contrast, you could reserve some chickpeas and mash them, then stir them back into the stew at the end. This will create a heartier texture while still preserving whole chickpeas. Additionally, experimenting with spices can lead to delightful variations; try adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle depth or a dash of chili flakes if you like a bit of heat. These small adjustments can elevate the dish significantly.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
1 cup vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure you have everything ready before starting the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious stew:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add Spices and Chickpeas

Stir in the ground cumin and coriander, cooking for an additional minute. Add the chickpeas and mix well to combine.

Create the Stew Base

Pour in the coconut milk, vegetable broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir well and let it come to a gentle simmer.

Simmer and Season

Allow the stew to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and season with salt and pepper according to preference.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy warm with crusty bread or over rice!

Enjoy your homemade creamy lemon chickpea stew!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this stew by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. It pairs wonderfully with rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy lemon chickpea stew is versatile when it comes to serving options. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread that can soak up the rich sauce. You can also serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa, which adds a nutty flavor and makes for a more filling meal. For a complete dinner, a side salad can offer a refreshing crunch to complement the creamy stew.

If you're looking to add some protein, grilled chicken or shrimp can be a great addition on top of the stew. This not only enhances the dish but also provides your meal with an extra layer of texture. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly, as proteins will absorb some of the stew's flavors.

Make-Ahead and Storage

One of the best aspects of this stew is its suitability for meal prep. You can make a large batch in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. If you want to enjoy it longer, this stew freezes beautifully. Pour it into freezer-safe containers and it will keep for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove over low heat.

When reheating the stew, you may notice it thickens as it sits. If this happens, add a splash of vegetable broth or coconut milk to bring it back to its creamy consistency. Stir well while heating to ensure even warming. This simple adjustment will help maintain the desirable texture of the stew, so it remains as satisfying as when freshly made.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew in advance?

Absolutely! This stew stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the stew in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

→ What can I substitute for coconut milk?

You can use almond milk or any other non-dairy milk, but the flavor and creaminess will vary.

→ Is this stew gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free. Just be sure to check labels if you're using packaged products.