Ingredients
Stew
- 30 ml / 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 banana shallots or 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 2 cans of chickpeas (480 g / 17 oz drained weight), divided
- 2-3 small preserved lemons (about 2½ small), seeds removed, and chopped or blended
- 360 ml / 1½ cups soy or other plant milk
- 14 g / 4 tbsp nutritional yeast (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (optional)
To Serve
- Fresh dill (optional)
- Chilli oil (optional)
- Quality toasted sourdough bread
- Pan-fried vegan sausages (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Shallots and Garlic: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add finely chopped shallots and sauté, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add finely chopped garlic and cook until fragrant and no longer opaque, about 1-2 minutes.
- Prepare Preserved Lemons: Remove seeds from the preserved lemons. Either chop the skin and flesh very finely or wait to blend them later with some chickpeas for a smoother texture.
- Add Seasonings and Chickpeas: Stir in fresh thyme leaves, nutritional yeast if using, chopped preserved lemons (unless blending them), and one and a half cans of drained chickpeas. Season well with salt and black pepper. Mix to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Blend Remaining Chickpeas: Place the remaining half can of chickpeas in a small blender with the soy milk and blend until smooth. This will add a creamy texture to the stew.
- Combine and Adjust Consistency: Pour the blended chickpea mixture into the pan with the sautéed ingredients. Stir well to combine and add a splash more plant milk if you prefer a slightly looser consistency.
- Simmer the Stew: Allow the stew to bubble gently for about 10 minutes over low-medium heat, letting the flavors meld. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. At this point, you can also add a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice for added brightness.
- Serve: Divide the stew between bowls. Garnish with fresh dill and drizzle with chilli oil or good olive oil if desired. Serve alongside toasted sourdough bread and pan-fried vegan sausages for a complete meal.
Notes
- Preserved lemons provide a unique tangy flavor; adjust quantity according to taste.
- Nutritional yeast adds a subtle cheesy flavor but can be omitted for a simpler taste.
- Use plant-based milk like soy for creaminess and to keep the stew vegan.
- To add protein, serve with pan-fried vegan sausages or other plant-based protein options.
- Adjust the consistency by adding more plant milk if you prefer a looser stew.
- Fresh herbs and optional chilli oil add extra flavor and brightness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegan