Vegan Moroccan Chickpea Skillet Recipe

Before diving into the recipe, let’s chat about what goes well with a Vegan Moroccan Chickpea Skillet. Trust me, this dish is flavorful enough to stand alone, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your dining experience.

1. Quinoa: Light and fluffy, quinoa is a fantastic base. It soaks up the flavors beautifully. Plus, it’s packed with protein, making the meal even heartier.
2. Couscous: The tiny grains of couscous add a delightful texture. Just like quinoa, it complements the spices found in the chickpea skillet and provides additional carbs without overpowering the dish.
3. Flatbreads or Pita: There’s something about tearing into a piece of flatbread. It’s perfect for scooping up the chickpeas and veggies, making every bite an experience. Warm it up for added comfort!

Now that you know what you can pair with this vibrant dish, let’s get started.

Hello, food lovers! If you’re anything like me, you’ve often found yourself daydreaming about exotic flavors from distant places. The allure of Moroccan cuisine has a magical way of transporting you to bustling markets filled with spices, aromas, and vibrant colors. Today, I’m excited to share my experience with a Vegan Moroccan Chickpea Skillet that captures all that charm right in your kitchen. It’s easy to prepare, brimming with flavor, and will make your taste buds dance.

You might be wondering, why chickpeas? These little legumes are not only filling but also packed with nutrients. They offer a plant-based protein that satisfies even the heartiest appetites. As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I’ve found this dish to be a delightful way to introduce people to the joys of vegan cuisine.

What is Vegan Moroccan Chickpea Skillet?

At its core, the Vegan Moroccan Chickpea Skillet is a one-pan dish that combines chickpeas with various vegetables and aromatic spices.

Picture this: tender chickpeas mingling with sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and a mixture of spices that can make your mouth tingle with excitement. The vibrant colors are a feast for the eyes! You can savor every bite while knowing you’re fueling your body with wholesome ingredients. It’s a dish that brings warmth and comfort while being light enough to leave you feeling energized.

Why This Recipe Works?

1. Simplicity: This recipe requires minimal prep and uses pantry staples. So, if you’re like me and value simplicity, this dish is a winner.

2. Flavor Explosion: The Moroccan-style spice blend infuses the chickpeas and vegetables with depth and warmth. It’s like a warm hug on a plate.

3. Nutrient-Dense: Packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins, this dish contributes to a balanced diet. You get everything from nutrients to satisfaction in one bowl.

4. Versatility: If you’re not a fan of one ingredient or want to switch things up, this recipe can easily adapt. Swap out sweet potatoes for zucchini or add in your favorite seasonal vegetables.

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish

Before you start cooking, gather these ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, roughly chopped
2 cups sweet potato, diced into ½-inch cubes
1 bell pepper, finely chopped
15 oz can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
19 oz canned diced tomatoes (with their juices)
1 ½ tablespoons Moroccan-Style Spice Blend (homemade, recipe below)
¼ teaspoon sea salt
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional: A pinch of chili flakes for a bit of heat
Juice of ½ lemon

how to make vegan moroccan chickpea skillet Recipe

How to Make This Vegan Moroccan Chickpea Skillet

Ready to cook? Let’s walk through this simple recipe step-by-step.

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by chopping your vegetables. This includes dicing your sweet potatoes and finely chopping the onion and bell pepper. Having everything prepped makes the cooking process smooth and painless.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Sweet Potato

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onion is translucent. Throw in the diced sweet potatoes and stir frequently for about 5 minutes. We want them to start softening.

Step 3: Add the Bell Pepper and Spices

Once the sweet potatoes are slightly tender, it’s time to add the bell pepper and the Moroccan spice blend. Keep stirring! Let all of those aromatics mingle together for a couple of minutes. The smell is incredible, isn’t it?

Step 4: Introduce the Chickpeas and Tomatoes

Next, add the rinsed chickpeas and the canned diced tomatoes along with their juices. Stir everything together well. Lower the heat slightly, cover the skillet, and let it simmer. This allows the flavors to combine nicely for about 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 5: Final Touches

After simmering, remove the lid and add salt. If you like it spicy, sprinkle in some chili flakes too. Finish off with fresh lemon juice and a generous sprinkle of chopped parsley right before serving.

Tips & Tricks

– Alternate Cooking Methods: If you’re low on time, skip the sweet potatoes and use pre-cooked ones for faster cooking.
– Make it More Hearty: Add in spinach or kale in the last few minutes. They wilt down beautifully and offer extra nutrients.
– Flavor Booster: Soak the chickpeas overnight if you’re using dried ones. This enhances their texture and reduces cooking time.
– Serve it Hot or Cold: This dish can be served warm or chilled as a salad. It’s versatile, which means it’s great for leftovers!
– Storage Perks: The flavors deepen after a day in the fridge. So if you can wait, let it sit overnight before enjoying.

Nutrition Information

Each serving of Vegan Moroccan Chickpea Skillet packs a nutrient punch:

How Do You Store The Leftovers?

Just transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the fridge. It will last up to 4 days, but will get even tastier as it sits!

If you want to freeze it, place the cooled skillet meal in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just remember to let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What Sides Would Complement Vegan Moroccan Chickpea Skillet?

1. Herbed Couscous: Couscous cooked with fresh herbs like cilantro and mint makes a light and refreshing companion to the chickpea skillet. It’s fluffy and carries the spices well.
2. Garlic Hummus and Veggie Platter: Serve a side of creamy hummus with fresh raw veggies. The coolness of the veggies balances the warmth of the skillet.
3. Crispy Roasted Cauliflower: Toss cauliflower florets in olive oil with cumin and paprika, roast until golden. The crunch adds texture and flavor contrast.

vegan moroccan chickpea skillet copycat Recipe

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?

1. Sweet Potatoes: You can swap sweet potatoes for regular potatoes or even squash. Each will give different but delicious flavors.
2. Chickpeas: If you’re out of chickpeas, white beans or lentils can save the day. They provide similar textures and protein.
3. Diced Tomatoes: No canned tomatoes? Use fresh tomatoes, just chop them up and adjust cooking time.
4. Olive Oil: In a pinch, you can substitute avocado oil or coconut oil for sautéing. Each brings its unique flavor profile to the dish.

Before diving into the recipe, let’s chat about what goes well with a Vegan Moroccan Chickpea Skillet

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Course Main Course

Cuisine Moroccan

Servings

Calories 225 kcal

Equipment

Large skillet

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion roughly chopped
2 cups sweet potato diced into ½-inch cubes
1 bell pepper finely chopped
15 oz can chickpeas rinsed and drained
19 oz canned diced tomatoes with their juices
1 ½ tablespoons Moroccan-Style Spice Blend homemade, recipe below
¼ teaspoon sea salt
Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Optional: A pinch of chili flakes for a bit of heat
Juice of ½ lemon