Pin it A fragrant, hearty North African stew featuring tender sweet potatoes, protein-rich chickpeas, and warming spices, simmered together for a deliciously comforting vegan main dish.
The first time I cooked this tagine for my friends, the kitchen filled with incredible aromas that had everyone gathering before dinner. The combination of sweet potatoes and chickpeas made it surprisingly hearty and satisfying.
Ingredients
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
- Garlic cloves: 2, minced
- Fresh ginger: 1-inch piece, grated
- Red bell pepper: 1, diced
- Sweet potatoes: 2 medium (about 500 g), peeled and cubed
- Carrot: 1 large, sliced
- Diced tomatoes: 1 can (400 g)
- Chickpeas: 1 can (400 g), drained and rinsed
- Ground cumin: 1 teaspoon
- Ground coriander: 1 teaspoon
- Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
- Ground turmeric: 1/2 teaspoon
- Ground cayenne pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (optional)
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
- Vegetable broth: 400 ml
- Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley: 2 tablespoons (garnish)
- Toasted slivered almonds: 2 tablespoons (optional garnish)
- Lemon wedges: to serve
Instructions
- Cook onions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or tagine over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 5 minutes, until softened.
- Add aromatics:
- Stir in garlic and ginger. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add vegetables:
- Add bell pepper, sweet potatoes, and carrot. Sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add spices:
- Sprinkle in cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, cayenne, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat vegetables with spices.
- Add base ingredients:
- Pour in diced tomatoes (with juices), chickpeas, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
- Simmer:
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30 to 35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sweet potatoes are tender and sauce has thickened.
- Final seasoning:
- Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve:
- Serve hot, garnished with cilantro or parsley, toasted almonds, and lemon wedges.
Pin it I love making this on chilly evenings—my family always asks for seconds and there are never any leftovers. It is now a staple in our house for both weeknights and special gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with steamed couscous, quinoa, or rice to soak up the flavorful sauce and create a complete meal.
Variations
Add chopped dried apricots or raisins for a hint of sweetness, or extra cayenne for a spicier kick.
Nutrition Information
Each serving provides about 340 calories, 8 g total fat, 58 g carbohydrates, and 9 g protein.
Pin it This tagine brings the magic of Moroccan flavors to your kitchen. Enjoy every bite and savor its comforting warmth.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What spices enhance the flavors in this dish?
Cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, smoked paprika, and optionally cayenne pepper combine to create the warm and fragrant character of this dish.
- → Can I prepare this in a pot other than a tagine?
Yes, a large pot works perfectly to simmer the ingredients evenly and develop the rich flavors.
- → What can I serve alongside this stew?
Steamed couscous, quinoa, or rice complement the hearty texture and absorb the flavorful sauce well.
- → Is it possible to add sweetness to this dish?
Including dried apricots or raisins introduces a gentle sweetness that balances the spices nicely.
- → How can I adjust the heat level?
Adding extra cayenne pepper or chili flakes will increase the spiciness to your preference.