Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew

Name: Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

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I often find myself craving a dish that combines comfort with brightness, and this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew is my go-to solution. It's rich and hearty yet invigorating with the zesty punch of lemon. In just 30 minutes, I can stir together wholesome ingredients that create a delightful balance of flavors. Whether you serve it over rice or with a crusty bread, this stew is sure to satisfy and warm you from the inside out. Perfect for any day of the week, it’s a family favorite!

Created by

Marigold Pearson

Last updated on 2026-01-19T23:09:35.470Z

In my quest to create a stew that’s both creamy and full of flavor, I stumbled upon the magic of coconut milk paired with lemon. The combination not only lends a luscious texture but also a delightful brightness that elevates the dish beyond traditional stews.

After trying various spices, I found that cumin and coriander complemented the chickpeas beautifully. This revelation took my stew to a whole new level. I always recommend letting the flavors meld for a few minutes before serving—it makes a world of difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and zesty flavor with a creamy base
Packed with protein and fiber from chickpeas
Quick to make—perfect for weeknight dinners

The Role of Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is a star ingredient in this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew, adding a rich and velvety texture that makes the dish both comforting and luxurious. When choosing coconut milk, opt for the full-fat version for the creamiest result. It not only enhances the mouthfeel but also balances the acidity of the lemon, resulting in a harmonious flavor profile. If you're looking for a lighter option, light coconut milk can be used, but keep in mind it may be less creamy and require a touch more seasoning to compensate.

As the stew simmers, the coconut milk will meld with the spices, creating a luscious sauce. To ensure the coconut milk doesn't separate, stir the pot gently and avoid bringing it to a rapid boil. This allows the stew to simmer and develop its flavors without compromising the creamy base.

Perfecting Your Seasoning

Seasoning is key to achieving the robust flavors you want in this stew. The combination of ground cumin and coriander not only adds warmth but also complexity to the dish. If you like a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño when you sauté the onions. A good practice is to taste the stew towards the end of cooking; you might want to add more lemon juice or salt to enhance the flavors further.

Don't hesitate to adjust the seasoning based on your personal preference. If using canned chickpeas, be mindful of their sodium content, which might require less salt in your stew. Additionally, if you're adding any vegetables or other proteins, account for their natural flavors when seasoning, ensuring that the stew remains balanced.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew is versatile and pairs beautifully with various sides. Serving it over fluffy jasmine rice or alongside a warm, crusty baguette can enhance the dining experience. For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked quinoa or bulgur to the stew to boost its fiber and protein content. A sprinkle of feta cheese on top can also elevate the dish, adding a salty, tangy contrast to the creamy base.

If you're looking to make this stew ahead of time, it stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. For meal prep or freezing, allow it to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to three months, making it an excellent option for quick dinners.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to start your cooking adventure!

Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 lemon, juiced and zested
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

With these easy-to-find ingredients, you're on your way to a delicious meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your stew.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Combine the Ingredients

Add the rinsed chickpeas, coconut milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the pot. Sprinkle in the cumin and coriander, then season with salt and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Simmer the Stew

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Allow it to cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and flavors have melded.

Serve and Garnish

Once the stew is ready, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro for a fresh touch.

Your creamy lemon chickpea stew is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red chili flakes while cooking. Additionally, this stew can keep well in the fridge for up to three days, making it perfect for meal prep.

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When properly stored, the flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious on the second day. To ensure the best taste and texture, allow the stew to cool completely before placing it in the fridge. If you store it while still warm, condensation may form, leading to a watery stew.

For longer storage, consider freezing the stew in portions. Wide-mouth mason jars or freezer-safe plastic containers are excellent for this purpose. Leave some space in the containers before sealing, as the stew will expand when frozen. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to customize this stew, there are plenty of delicious substitutions. For a nutty twist, you can replace half of the coconut milk with almond milk, though it will have a different flavor profile. If you're not a fan of chickpeas, white beans or lentils work well too—just adjust the cooking time accordingly. If using lentils, add them earlier in the cooking process to ensure they’re tender by the time the stew is finished.

For a fresh herb finish, try swapping cilantro for parsley or basil. Each herb will impart a unique note to the dish and can cater to your flavor preferences. Additionally, feel free to incorporate other vegetables like spinach, kale, or bell peppers to increase the stew's nutritional value and color.

Experimenting with Flavors

This recipe is a fantastic base for experimentation. Want a smoky flavor? Consider adding a bit of smoked paprika or chipotle pepper in adobo sauce. If you're looking for a tropical twist, diced pineapple or a splash of orange juice can add a sweet tang that complements the lemon beautifully. Experimenting with different spice blends can also yield exciting results; try garam masala for an Indian-inspired flair or harissa for a North African kick.

If you prefer a thicker stew, simmer it uncovered for the last few minutes of cooking to allow excess moisture to evaporate, creating a more concentrated flavor. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, and stir frequently during this final stage.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead?

Yes, but you'll need to soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the stew.

→ Is this stew vegan?

Absolutely! The recipe is entirely plant-based and delicious.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

It's great on its own, but serving it over rice, quinoa, or with crusty bread complements the stew wonderfully.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, the stew freezes well! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.