Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew

Name: Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground turmeric; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 1 cup vegetable broth; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Healthy Meals Collection

When I first made this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew, I was amazed at how quickly it came together and how packed with flavor it turned out. The vibrant lemony zest and the creamy texture create an experience that is both comforting and refreshing. I love that this dish is not only easy to prepare but also nutritious, making it a weeknight winner. With the help of chickpeas and coconut milk, I found a wonderful balance between heartiness and brightness that keeps me coming back for seconds.

Created by

Rachel Green

Last updated on 2026-01-21T19:29:34.747Z

This Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew has become a staple in my kitchen. I experimented with various spices and found that the addition of turmeric and cumin not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful golden hue. I recommend letting it simmer a bit longer, as it allows all the ingredients to meld together perfectly, resulting in a comforting and flavorful dish.

Every time I serve this stew, I receive compliments on the balance between the creaminess of the coconut milk and the refreshing brightness of the lemon. To add an extra layer of flavor, I like to garnish it with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. It’s a delightful touch that elevates the entire dish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and zesty lemon flavor that enlivens your palate
Creamy coconut milk offers a rich, comforting texture
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

Understanding the Ingredients

The chickpeas are the star of this stew, providing a hearty base and an excellent source of protein and fiber. Using canned chickpeas saves time, but if you prefer homemade, soak dried chickpeas overnight and cook them until tender. This adds a slightly firmer texture that can enhance the dish's heartiness. I find that properly seasoned chickpeas lend a slight nutty flavor that complements the creaminess of the coconut milk perfectly.

Coconut milk is not just for creaminess; it also adds a subtle sweetness that balances the bright acidity of the lemon. When choosing coconut milk, opt for full-fat varieties for a richer stew. If you're looking to reduce calories, light coconut milk can be used, but it may lessen the creamy texture. Add an extra splash of vegetable broth or a small dollop of yogurt at the end if you adjust the creaminess.

Perfecting the Flavor Profile

Seasoning is crucial in this recipe. As you simmer the stew, keep in mind that the flavors will intensify, so start with a light hand on the salt and pepper, adjusting as needed after tasting. The freshness of the lemon juice and zest not only enhances the dish but also provides a lovely aromatic quality that penetrates every bite. I often squeeze in additional lemon juice just before serving for that extra burst of brightness.

Cooking times matter, especially when sautéing onions and garlic. You want the onions to become translucent and slightly golden—this usually takes about five minutes over medium heat. Keep the heat consistent to avoid burning the garlic, which can turn bitter. Stirring frequently ensures even cooking and prevents sticking. At any point, if you find the bottom of the pot is developing a dark crust, adding a splash of vegetable broth can help deglaze the pot, capturing all those flavorful bits.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make the stew:

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
1 cup vegetable broth
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your stew:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, and turmeric and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Add the chickpeas, coconut milk, vegetable broth, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the pot. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Simmer

Let the stew simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Enjoy your Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew with a side of crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For a little heat, consider adding diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes during the cooking process.

Storage and Reheating

This stew stores beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep. After it cools, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. The flavors meld together nicely, often resulting in an even more delicious meal the next day. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it seems too thick, add a bit of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

For longer storage, you can freeze the stew for up to three months. I recommend portioning it out into freezer-safe containers for easy thawing. Let it cool completely before freezing, and when you're ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave.

Customization and Variations

Feel free to customize this stew to suit your taste or dietary needs. Adding kale or spinach just before serving boosts nutrition and adds a splash of color. If you're seeking another layer of flavor, a drizzle of sesame oil right before serving can enhance the richness. For a spicy kick, toss in red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers when you add the garlic for a zesty punch.

If you need a gluten-free alternative to add more bulk, consider incorporating diced potatoes or sweet potatoes. They will absorb flavors beautifully and create a heartier texture. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, allowing for about 10-15 additional minutes of simmering until the potatoes are tender.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, you can use dried chickpeas. Just soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the stew.

→ Is there a substitute for coconut milk?

Yes, you can use almond milk or any other plant-based milk, but the flavor and creaminess will change.

→ How can I make this stew vegan?

This recipe is already vegan-friendly as it uses coconut milk and chickpeas.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Let the stew cool completely, then store it in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 3 months.