Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew

Name: Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Food

I absolutely love how this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew brings vibrant flavors to my dinner table. With a perfect balance of creamy texture and zesty notes, it's become one of my go-to recipes when I want something comforting yet light. The combination of chickpeas and lemon makes each bite refreshing, and it’s both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. I often serve it with crusty bread or over fluffy rice, and the leftovers are just as delicious, which makes it perfect for meal prep!

Created by

Octavia Bellamy

Last updated on 2026-01-19T23:53:34.848Z

One evening, I was challenged to create a dish that was both creamy and healthy. After some experimentation with spices and ingredients, I settled on using chickpeas as the base. They provide not only protein but also a wonderful texture that absorbs flavors beautifully. Adding a splash of lemon juice towards the end of cooking gives the stew a bright, refreshing taste that elevates the entire dish.

I've made this stew several times since and learned that letting it simmer allows the spices to meld together, creating a rich, comforting meal that’s perfect for chilly nights. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasoning to suit your palate!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy texture paired with zesty lemon notes
Nutritious chickpeas packed with protein
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers taste even better

Understanding the Ingredients

Chickpeas are the star of this stew, providing not just texture but also a remarkable amount of protein and fiber. Their nutty flavor enhances the overall dish while making it hearty enough to serve as a main course. If you're short on canned chickpeas, dried chickpeas work too; just soak and cook them beforehand, adjusting the liquid in the stew accordingly.

Coconut milk plays a crucial role in achieving the creamy consistency that defines this recipe. Beyond flavor, it adds richness and a subtle sweetness that balances the acidity of the lemon. If you're looking for a lower-fat option, consider using light coconut milk, although the flavor may be slightly less rich.

Techniques for Perfecting Your Stew

Sautéing the onions until translucent is vital, as it forms the flavor base of the stew. Don't rush this step—about 5 minutes is ideal. This gentle cooking allows the onions to release their natural sweetness, creating a lovely backdrop for the garlic and spices. Keep the heat at medium to avoid browning the onions too soon, which can introduce bitterness.

When adding spices to the pot, let them bloom by stirring them into the oil for about 30 seconds. This technique infuses the oil with flavor, which is then released into the stew. If you prefer a touch more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes when you introduce the spices.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
2 cups vegetable broth
1 lemon, juiced and zested
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and continue to sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Add the Spices and Chickpeas

Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the chickpeas and stir well to coat them in the spices.

Pour in the Liquid

Add the coconut milk and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Finish with Lemon

Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the lemon juice and zest, adjusting seasoning if necessary. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to develop.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the warm stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or toss in some fresh spinach just before serving to enhance its nutritional value.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread, making for a delightful dip or complement to the dish. If bread isn’t your style, fluffy rice, quinoa, or even couscous are excellent bases that absorb the stew’s flavors well. Top each plate with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for an extra burst of freshness just before serving.

For a fun twist, consider serving the stew in a hollowed-out bread bowl. This presentation not only makes for an eye-catching meal but also adds an extra layer of flavor as the bread soaks up the stew.

Storing and Reheating

This stew is perfect for meal prep as it stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just ensure it cools down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

If you want to freeze the stew, it’s best to do so without the fresh parsley garnish. Transfer it to freezer-safe containers, and it should maintain its quality for up to three months. When reheating, you can add fresh parsley right before serving to brighten up the flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and even tastes better on the second day.

→ Is there a substitute for coconut milk?

You can use almond milk or any non-dairy milk, but the stew will lose some creaminess. You might want to add a little extra olive oil or nut butter for richness.

→ Can I add vegetables to the stew?

Yes! Feel free to add diced carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just be sure to sauté them along with the onions at the beginning.

→ How can I make this stew spicier?

You can add fresh chili, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the pot for an added kick.