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Crockpot Chickpea Stew

This hearty chickpea stew is made by slow-cooking tender chickpeas in a smoky tomato broth, infused with aromatics and spices. The dish develops a rich, thick texture with melting chickpeas and a vibrant, fragrant sauce, perfect for cozy weeknights or comforting weekends. It’s a simple, soulful meal that’s both nourishing and deeply satisfying.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 18 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup dried chickpeas soaked overnight and drained
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes 14 oz can
  • 2 cups vegetable broth low-sodium preferred
  • 1 large onion peeled and diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp cumin
  • 1 tbsp olive oil for sautéing
  • Fresh herbs cilantro or parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • 6-quart slow cooker
  • Large cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Start by measuring out your dried chickpeas. Rinse them well under cold water, then soak them overnight in a large bowl with plenty of water. Drain and rinse again before using.
  2. Dice the onion into small pieces and mince the garlic cloves finely. Set aside.
  3. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté, stirring frequently, until it becomes translucent and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until aromatic.
  4. Transfer the sautéed aromatics to your slow cooker. Add the soaked chickpeas, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
  5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. The chickpeas will become tender and almost melt into the rich, smoky broth, filling your kitchen with a warm aroma.
  6. Once the cooking time is up, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or spices if needed. If the stew is too thick, stir in a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
  7. Finish by stirring in chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. Let the stew sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the herbs to release their bright aroma.
  8. Scoop the hearty chickpea stew into bowls, garnish with extra herbs if desired, and serve hot. Pair it with crusty bread or rice for a complete, comforting meal.

Notes

For a quicker version, use canned chickpeas—just rinse and add them in the last hour of cooking. Feel free to top with a squeeze of lemon to brighten the flavors or sprinkle additional fresh herbs for extra freshness.