Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew

Name: Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups vegetable broth; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Food

I absolutely love whipping up this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew when I'm in the mood for something hearty yet refreshing. The bright, zesty flavor of the lemon pairs wonderfully with the creaminess of the chickpeas, creating a dish that’s both comforting and uplifting. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick lunch, this recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients. With just the right amount of spices, it’s become a staple in my kitchen that I can't wait to share with you!

Created by

Yasmin Thornton

Last updated on 2026-01-21T20:13:35.011Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was looking for a way to make chickpeas feel more exciting. I discovered that by adding lemon juice and zest, the dish transformed into something truly special. The acidity balances the creaminess beautifully and adds that extra zing that elevates the stew.

As someone who loves a touch of warmth in my dishes, I also included some spices like cumin and coriander. They not only enhance the flavor but really bring out the goodness of the chickpeas. Trust me, the first spoonful will leave you craving more!

        Why You'll Love This Stew
        Zesty lemon flavor that brightens your day
Creamy texture that comforts the soul
Packed with protein and fiber for a nutritious meal

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The chickpeas in this stew not only provide a creamy texture but are also a fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber, making this dish exceptionally filling. If you prefer, you can substitute canned chickpeas with cooked dry chickpeas; just make sure to soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the pot. This switch will enhance the overall texture even further, as dry chickpeas maintain a firmer bite compared to canned varieties that might get mushy.

Lemon plays a pivotal role in brightening the flavors of the creamy stew. Using both the juice and zest ensures that you capture the refreshing aroma and vibrant taste of the lemon. If you’d like a milder lemon flavor, consider using only the juice or reducing the amount of zest. On the other hand, if you enjoy a stronger citrus punch, adding an extra squeeze of lemon just before serving can really elevate the dish.

Perfecting Your Technique

When sautéing the onion, aim for a translucent color that signals it's ready for the next step; about 5-7 minutes should do the trick. This not only softens the onion, but it also releases its natural sweetness, enhancing the stew's overall flavor. Avoid rushing the cooking process. If the garlic starts to brown too much, it can turn bitter, so keep it on medium heat and stir regularly to prevent burning.

Simmering the stew for about 20 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You'll know it's ready when the stew thickens and bubbles gently on the sides, offering a slightly glossy texture. If you find the stew is too thick for your liking, simply stir in a bit more vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency right before serving.

Ingredients

For the Stew

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups vegetable broth
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, cumin, and coriander, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

Add Chickpeas and Tomatoes

Next, add the drained chickpeas and diced tomatoes to the pot. Stir well to combine and cook for about 3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Simmer the Stew

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Finishing Touches

Remove the pot from heat and stir in the lemon juice and zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

For added nutrition, feel free to toss in some chopped spinach or kale during the simmering stage. It adds a beautiful color and boosts the health factor of the stew.

Serving Suggestions

This stew pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread or a side of fluffy quinoa, providing a hearty meal perfect for lunch or dinner. For a complete meal, consider topping the stew with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese to add creaminess that complements the lemon's brightness. Fresh herbs like dill or mint can also elevate the flavor profile, lending a refreshing contrast.

If you're hosting a gathering, this stew can easily be served as part of a larger meal. Include a salad with citrus vinaigrette or roasted vegetables to balance out the hearty nature of the stew. I often serve it in individual bowls with an extra wedge of lemon on the side for those who want to kick up the lemon flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew is perfect for meal prep! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Before reheating, check the consistency; sometimes the stew thickens as it cools. Add a splash of vegetable broth while reheating on the stovetop, bringing it back to a comforting, creamy texture.

If you want to prepare this stew in advance, consider making it a day ahead. The flavors will deepen and improve overnight. For longer storage, this stew freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it will last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming it on the stovetop, adding a bit of broth as necessary.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chickpeas for this recipe?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to soak and cook them beforehand, as frozen chickpeas require more time to become tender.

→ How can I make this stew spicier?

If you like a heat kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while sautéing the onions.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew is entirely vegan and packed with wholesome ingredients.

→ Can I store leftovers, and how long do they last?

Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.