Vegan Butternut Squash and Chickpea Stew: Effortless Delight
Warm, comforting, and packed with nutrients, this Vegan Butternut Squash and Chickpea Stew is a delightful dish perfect for chilly evenings. This hearty stew combines the sweetness of butternut squash with the earthy flavor of chickpeas, creating a savoury and satisfying meal that is easy to prepare. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan cook or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this recipe is sure to become a favourite in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
– 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can of chopped tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Olive oil
Preparation:
1. Prepping the Ingredients:
– Peel and dice the butternut squash, chop the onion, mince the garlic, dice the red bell pepper, and rinse the chickpeas.
2. Cooking the Stew:
1. In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant.
2. Stir in the diced red bell pepper and cook for another few minutes until softened.
3. Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot, along with the cumin, paprika, turmeric, and cinnamon. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
4. Pour in the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, and vegetable broth. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the butternut squash is tender.
5. Add the drained chickpeas to the stew and simmer for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavours to meld together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Serve and Enjoy:
– Ladle the Vegan Butternut Squash and Chickpea Stew into bowls, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot. This stew pairs well with crusty bread or a side of cooked quinoa for a complete meal.
Health Benefits:
This Vegan Butternut Squash and Chickpea Stew is not only delicious but also nutritious. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber, which support immune function and promote healthy digestion. Chickpeas are a good source of plant-based protein and fiber, aiding in satiety and stabilizing blood sugar levels. Additionally, the array of spices in this stew provides not only fantastic flavor but also anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or meal prep option, this Vegan Butternut Squash and Chickpea Stew is a versatile and satisfying dish that will surely become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Try it out and enjoy a bowl of this effortless delight packed with wholesome ingredients and robust flavours.