Chickpeas Recipe

Prepare ingredients

Drain and rinse the canned chickpeas. Finely chop the onion, peel and dice the carrots, dice the celery, and mince the garlic. Open the canned tomatoes so they are ready.

Sauté aromatics

Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add 3 tablespoons olive oil. When oil shimmers, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent and the carrots begin to soften, about 6–8 minutes.

Add garlic and spices

Stir in the minced garlic, 2 teaspoons ground cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1 teaspoon ground coriander. Cook for 30–45 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.

Tomato base

Add 2 tablespoons tomato paste and cook, stirring, 1–2 minutes to caramelize slightly. Add the canned diced tomatoes (with juices) and 2 cups vegetable broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Simmer with chickpeas

Add the drained chickpeas and 1 bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to maintain a low simmer. Cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes so flavors meld and liquid reduces slightly.

Finish and season

Remove and discard the bay leaf. Stir in 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1.5 teaspoons salt, 3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes if using. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon as desired. Stir in half a cup chopped fresh parsley just before serving.

While the stew simmers, combine 1 cup plain yogurt, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or parsley, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and a pinch (1/8 teaspoon) black pepper in a small bowl. Mix until smooth and refrigerate until ready to serve. This cool yogurt adds bright creaminess when spooned over the warm chickpeas.

Ladle the chickpea stew into bowls over crusty bread, cooked rice, or quinoa. Spoon a dollop of the herb yogurt on top if using, sprinkle additional chopped parsley, and serve with lemon wedges for extra brightness.