Welcome to the heartwarming world of family cooking with Zynahz. Today, we’re delving into a dish that perfectly combines tradition, flavor, and the comforting embrace of home: our Slow Cooker Chickpea Tagine. This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of family, creativity, and the rich tapestry of culinary arts. Imagine the fragrant aroma of spices wafting through your home, invoking the warmth of togetherness. Perfect for a cozy evening or a festive family gathering, this dish will have everyone gathering around the table for seconds.
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 2 cups chickpeas, soaked overnight
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 cup butternut squash, diced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until softened and fragrant.
- Add the carrots, bell pepper, zucchini, and butternut squash to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Transfer the sautéed vegetables to your slow cooker. Add the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, dried apricots, raisins, and vegetable broth.
- Stir in the ground cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, and cayenne pepper. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chickpeas and vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.
- Once cooked, give the tagine a good stir. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Helpful Tips
If you’re short on time, you can use canned chickpeas instead of dried ones. Just be sure to rinse and drain them well. For a sweeter touch, add a dash of honey or maple syrup. This dish is highly versatile, so feel free to experiment with different vegetables and dried fruits. Serve with couscous, quinoa, or warm pita bread for a complete meal.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This tagine also freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
Pairings and Complements
This Slow Cooker Chickpea Tagine pairs beautifully with a side of fluffy couscous or nutty quinoa. Complement the meal with a simple green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette. For drinks, a refreshing mint tea or a glass of light red wine would be perfect companions.
We hope this Slow Cooker Chickpea Tagine brings as much joy to your family as it does to ours. We’d love to see your culinary creations – share your photos using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram. Your feedback is invaluable, so don’t hesitate to leave a comment on our website at Zynahz.com. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for delicious updates and follow us on social media for more inspiring recipes. Happy cooking from Zynah Maryam!
