Save 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. Perfect for chilly evenings and healthy weeknight dinners.
I first made this tagine for a gathering of friends, and everyone was surprised by how flavorful and satisfying a vegan dish could be. The sweet potatoes absorb the aromatic spices beautifully, and the chickpeas make it hearty enough for any appetite.
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
- Toasted slivered almonds: 2 tablespoons (optional)
- Lemon wedges: to serve
Instructions
- Cook Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or tagine over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 5 minutes, until softened.
- Add Ginger & Garlic:
- 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 Tomatoes & Chickpeas:
- 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 the sauce has thickened.
- Finish & Serve:
- Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro or parsley, toasted almonds, and lemon wedges.
Save This tagine quickly became a dinner favorite in our home, especially when enjoyed around a big table with loved ones and freshly baked flatbread.
Required Tools
Large pot or tagine, cutting board, sharp knife, wooden spoon
Nutritional Information
Each serving: 340 calories, 8 g fat, 58 g carbohydrates, 9 g protein
Serving Suggestions
Pair with couscous, quinoa, or rice. Add dried apricots or raisins for extra sweetness and texture
Save This comforting tagine is a nutritious vegan main perfect for meal prep and sharing. Enjoy the blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors in every bite.
Recipe FAQ
- → What spices give this stew its distinctive flavor?
The stew features a blend of cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, smoked paprika, and optional cayenne pepper, creating complex and warming flavors.
- → Can I prepare this dish without a tagine?
Yes, a large pot or heavy-bottomed pan works well for simmering the ingredients gently with consistent heat.
- → How can I add extra sweetness to the dish?
Adding dried apricots or raisins during simmering introduces subtle sweetness that complements the spices beautifully.
- → What can I serve alongside this stew for a complete meal?
Serve with steamed couscous, quinoa, or rice to soak up the flavorful sauce and create a satisfying meal.
- → Is this dish suitable for special diets?
It is naturally vegan and gluten-free, though note that garnishing with almonds introduces tree nuts.
- → How long does it take to cook the stew?
After a 20-minute preparation, simmer the stew gently for about 40 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender and flavors meld.