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.
The first time I made this tagine was during a chilly autumn weekend when I craved something wholesome yet vibrant. The combination of sweet potatoes and chickpeas simmering away with rich spices instantly filled my kitchen with an inviting, cozy aroma.
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 vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot 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.
- Layer flavors:
- 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 to coat the vegetables well.
- Simmer stew:
- Pour in diced tomatoes, chickpeas, and vegetable broth. Stir and 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 thickens.
- Taste and finish:
- Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro or parsley, toasted almonds, and lemon wedges.
Save This tagine quickly became a family favorite. We love gathering around the dinner table, serving big scoops alongside fluffy rice, laughing and sharing stories as the Moroccan spices fill the room.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy this tagine with steamed couscous, quinoa, or rice for a complete meal. For extra richness, try it topped with a dollop of plant-based yogurt or a sprinkle of dried fruit.
Tool Tips
Using a tagine pot creates authentic depth of flavor. If you don't have one, a heavy-bottomed saucepan works well just stir gently and keep the heat low for best results.
Nutrition Notes
Each serving provides approximately 340 calories, 8 g total fat, 58 g carbohydrates, and 9 g protein making it filling and nourishing for any meal.
Save Serve the tagine hot, with plenty of fresh herbs and lemon wedges the flavors are sure to transport you straight to Morocco.
Recipe FAQs
- → What spices create the distinctive flavor?
Ground cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, smoked paprika, and a hint of cayenne pepper combine to give a warm, complex North African flavor.
- → Can I substitute the chickpeas?
Yes, white beans or lentils could be used as protein alternatives for different textures and taste profiles.
- → How long should the stew simmer?
Simmer the ingredients for about 30 to 35 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender and the sauce thickens well.
- → What are good side options to serve with this dish?
Steamed couscous, quinoa, or fluffy rice complement the stew and help soak up the flavorful sauce.
- → How can I add more heat to this meal?
Increase cayenne pepper or add chili flakes during cooking to enhance the spiciness to your liking.