Healthy Crockpot Chickpea Tagine

Name: Healthy Crockpot Chickpea Tagine
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 large carrot, diced; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 sweet potato, peeled and cubed; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup vegetable broth; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon turmeric; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Chickpea Tagine when I want a nutritious yet tasty meal that requires minimal effort. The combination of spices and vegetables simmers together beautifully in my slow cooker, creating a dish that's bursting with flavor. I often find myself sneaking extra helpings of this wholesome recipe, especially with its fragrant aroma filling my kitchen. Plus, it’s a perfect choice for meal prep since it reheats wonderfully throughout the week.

Created by

Callie Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:01:15.458Z

When I first tried this Healthy Crockpot Chickpea Tagine, I was amazed by how effortless it was to prepare a dish with such complex flavors. The rich spices, along with tender chickpeas and vibrant vegetables, created a comforting meal that made my taste buds dance. I like to use hearty vegetables like sweet potatoes and bell peppers for extra texture.

One thing I learned is that letting it cook slowly enhances the melding of flavors, so I usually set it up in the morning and enjoy it for dinner. It’s also versatile; feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust the spices to your liking for a personalized touch!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Exotic blend of spices that tantalizes your taste buds
Nutrient-dense and filled with protein from chickpeas
Effortless meal preparation, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this Healthy Crockpot Chickpea Tagine is undoubtedly the chickpeas. They are rich in protein and fiber, providing a hearty texture that coats the dish beautifully. Rinsing and draining canned chickpeas helps reduce their sodium content and enhances the overall flavor by allowing spices to penetrate better. If you're using dried chickpeas, be sure to soak them overnight and cook them properly before adding to the crockpot, as they require more time to soften compared to canned varieties.

The spices in this recipe serve a critical role in developing its unique flavor profile. Ground cumin and coriander bring a warm earthiness, while cinnamon adds a subtle sweetness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes. Turmeric not only infuses the dish with a sunny yellow hue but also contributes anti-inflammatory properties. Combining these spices in the crockpot allows their flavors to meld over time, resulting in a more complex and satisfying dish. Don't hesitate to adjust the spice levels to suit your personal taste.

Tips for Perfect Cooking

Cooking in a crockpot can be forgiving, but there are a few tips to ensure success. For this recipe, chopping vegetables into uniform sizes is crucial; this ensures they cook evenly. For instance, dicing the sweet potato to a similar size as the carrot helps achieve tenderness in the same timeframe. Also, remember that cooking times may vary based on the crockpot model; if your slow cooker runs hot, check for doneness an hour early. The vegetables should be tender but not mushy, maintaining a bit of structure.

If you're preparing this dish in advance, it holds up beautifully in the refrigerator for up to five days. Just allow the tagine to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. For longer storage, consider freezing it—just be aware that some vegetables may change texture slightly after thawing. To reheat, simply warm it on low in the crockpot or on the stove, adding a splash of vegetable broth if necessary to prevent drying out. The flavors will continue to deepen, making it even more delicious.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving this tagine, I love to pair it with fluffy couscous or quinoa, which soak up the delicious sauce and complement the dish's textures. You can also serve it over a bed of steamed rice for an alternative grain option. Adding a dollop of plain yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese can introduce a creamy contrast that enhances the overall flavor profile. For a burst of freshness, consider including a side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.

For those looking to customize the dish, feel free to incorporate other vegetables such as zucchini or eggplant, which can also thrive in the gradual cooking process. Additionally, nuts like almonds or cashews can be sprinkled on top for an added crunch and healthy fat. If you're craving heat, a touch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce can elevate the spice level to your liking. This tagine is not just filling; it's a delightful canvas to explore various flavors and textures.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to whip up this delicious tagine!

Ingredients

2 cups canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large carrot, diced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 sweet potato, peeled and cubed
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup vegetable broth
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon turmeric
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready to go before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Healthy Crockpot Chickpea Tagine.

Prepare the Ingredients

In a bowl, combine the chickpeas, onion, garlic, carrot, bell pepper, and sweet potato. Mix well.

Add the Remaining Ingredients

Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and all spices to the mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.

Cook in the Crockpot

Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the vegetables are tender.

Serve and Garnish

Once ready, serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy your hearty meal!

Relax and savor the delightful flavors of your tagine!

Pro Tips

For extra richness, consider adding a handful of dried apricots or raisins during the last hour of cooking. They complement the spices beautifully.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're unable to find fresh vegetables like sweet potatoes or bell peppers, frozen options can be a convenient alternative without sacrificing flavor. Just toss them directly into the crockpot; they might require a few extra minutes of cooking due to their size. For a protein twist, you could swap chickpeas for white beans, like cannellinis or great northern beans, providing a different texture while still keeping the dish plant-based.

For those on a gluten-free diet, ensure your vegetable broth is certified gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten ingredients. You can also use low-sodium broth to control the salt level in the recipe, which is particularly advantageous for anyone managing their sodium intake.

Meal Prep and Storage

This Healthy Crockpot Chickpea Tagine is a fantastic meal prep option, allowing you to batch cook and portion it throughout the week. After cooking, divide the tagine into individual servings and store in airtight containers; it reheats well and retains its flavors. If you're planning to store it for an extended period, consider freezing it in portion-sized containers to make quick meals even simpler. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

To elevate the reheating experience, consider topping your tagine with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. This brightens the flavors and adds an appealing freshness that can sometimes diminish during storage. Remember to check the texture and consistency upon reheating, adding a bit of broth or water if needed to regain its original saucy consistency.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If when cooking you find that the tagine is too watery, it may be due to the type and brand of canned tomatoes you used or the amount of moisture released by the vegetables. A simple fix is to uncover the crockpot for the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow excess liquid to evaporate. Additionally, maintain the integrity of your vegetables—if they are too finely chopped, they will break down more and release more water during cooking.

On the other hand, if the tagine seems too dry, you can add a splash of vegetable broth to recover the moisture. Alternatively, make sure not to overcook it, as this can lead to thicker textures. Regularly checking during the last hour can save you from a potentially dry dish. By keeping an eye on the cooking time and adjusting as necessary, you can achieve that perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, but make sure to soak and cook them beforehand. You'll need about 1 cup of dried chickpeas.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used here are gluten-free.

→ Can I freeze this tagine?

Absolutely! It freezes well. Store it in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for sweet potatoes?

You can use regular potatoes or even butternut squash for a different flavor.