How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Can I use canned chickpeas?

Yes, canned chickpeas can be used to save time; just ensure they are well rinsed.

Is there a substitute for berbere spice?

If you can't find berbere, try a combination of paprika, cayenne pepper, and fenugreek.

Can this be made vegan?

This recipe is already vegan; simply ensure any bread or sides conform to vegan guidelines.

How can I thicken the stew?

If a thicker stew is desired, mash a portion of the chickpeas and stir them back into the stew.

Ethiopian Spiced Chickpea Stew with Berbere Tomato Sauce

Name: Ethiopian Spiced Chickpea Stew with Berbere Tomato Sauce
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: Dried chickpeas; Chickpeas (canned); Garlic; Ginger; Berbere spice mix; Olive oil; Onion; Garlic; Tomato paste; Crushed tomatoes; Salt; Black pepper; Vegetable broth; Lemon juice; Fresh cilantro; Crispy fried onions; Fresh lemon wedges

A rich, flavorful stew highlighting Ethiopian spices

Enjoy a hearty and aromatic chickpea stew simmered with a spiced tomato sauce, inspired by traditional Ethiopian cuisine.

1 h 30 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Chickpeas

Dried chickpeas

1 cup, soaked overnight

Chickpeas (canned)

2 cans (15 oz each), drained and rinsed

Garlic

2 cloves, minced

Ginger

1-inch piece, grated

For the Berbere Tomato Sauce

Berbere spice mix

2 tablespoons

Olive oil

1 tablespoon

Onion

1 large, finely chopped

Garlic

2 cloves, minced

Tomato paste

1 tablespoon

Crushed tomatoes

1 can (14 oz)

Salt

to taste

Black pepper

to taste

For the Finish

Vegetable broth

2 cups

Lemon juice

1 teaspoon

Fresh cilantro

Handful, chopped

For the Garnishes

Crispy fried onions

Fresh lemon wedges

Preparation

Preparing the Chickpeas

Rinse and Drain

If using dried chickpeas, drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas.

Boil Chickpeas

Place them in a pot and cover with water. Boil until tender, about 45 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Preparing the Berbere Tomato Sauce

Heat Oil

Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.

Sauté Onions

Sauté onions until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add Aromatics & Spices

Add garlic, ginger, and berbere spice mix, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.

Ensure spices do not burn during sautéing. Pro Tip: Use a non-stick pan to prevent sticking.

Cooking Process

Simmering the Stew

Once the berbere sauce base is ready, add the chickpeas and vegetable broth, bringing to a gentle simmer.

Flavor Integration

Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, simmering for 30 minutes.

Final Touches

Before serving, stir in lemon juice and fresh cilantro.

Plating & Serving