Moroccan Chickpea Sweet Potato

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 made this tagine, my family was amazed by the blend of sweet and savory flavors & how satisfying a plant-based stew could be. It quickly became a staple in our dinner rotation, especially on cool evenings.

Ingredients

• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
• Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves, 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
• Toasted slivered almonds: 2 tablespoons (optional)
• Lemon wedges: To serve

Instructions

Sauté Aromatics:

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened.

Add Garlic and Ginger:

Stir in garlic and ginger and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Add Vegetables:

Add bell pepper, sweet potatoes, and carrot. Sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Spice It Up:

Sprinkle in cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, cayenne, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat vegetables with spices.

Combine and Simmer:

Pour in diced tomatoes with their juices, chickpeas, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.

Cook:

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 the sauce has thickened.

Finish and Serve:

Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro or parsley, toasted almonds, and lemon wedges.

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This tagine has become our go-to for family gatherings & weeknight dinners. Sharing it with loved ones always brings smiles & lively conversation around the table.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with steamed couscous, quinoa, or rice to complete the meal and soak up all the delicious sauce.

Customization Ideas

Add dried apricots or raisins for a touch of sweetness, or vary the heat with extra cayenne or chili flakes as desired.

Allergen Information

Check store-bought broth and canned ingredients for hidden allergens. The dish is naturally gluten-free and vegan.

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Top with fresh parsley & a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a bright finish. Enjoy your cozy Moroccan meal!

Recipe Questions

→ What spices give the dish its distinctive flavor?

The stew features cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, smoked paprika, and optional cayenne, creating a warm and aromatic profile.

→ Can I substitute the chickpeas with another ingredient?

While chickpeas add texture and protein, lentils or white beans can be used as alternatives for a similar hearty feel.

→ How long should the stew simmer for best results?

Simmering for 30–35 minutes ensures the sweet potatoes become tender and flavors meld perfectly.

→ What garnish options enhance the final dish?

Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, toasted slivered almonds, and lemon wedges add freshness, crunch, and brightness.

→ Is this dish suitable for gluten-free and vegan diets?

Yes, the stew is naturally gluten-free and vegan, relying on plant-based ingredients and spices.

→ Can I prepare this stew in advance?

Allowing the dish to rest overnight enhances the depth of flavors, making it ideal for advance preparation.