Warm up with a bowl of this Hearty Mediterranean Chickpea and Beef Stew, a dish that’s rich in flavors and packed with protein. Combining tender beef, chickpeas, and a medley of aromatic spices, this stew offers a taste of the Mediterranean that’s both comforting and satisfying. Perfect for cozy dinners or a nourishing meal prep option, this stew brings together the warmth of spices and the heartiness of chickpeas for a meal that will leave you feeling full and content.
Ingredients:
- 250g chickpeas (pre-soaked overnight)
- 500g beef, cut into cubes
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 chili pepper, finely chopped (optional, for heat)
- 2 teaspoons red pepper paste
- 1 ½ tablespoons tomato paste
- A pinch of dried basil, thyme, and mint
- Salt, to taste
- Olive oil (for sautéing)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chickpeas: If you haven’t already done so, soak the chickpeas in water overnight. Drain and rinse them before cooking.
- Cook the Chickpeas: In a large pot, add the pre-soaked chickpeas and cover them with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let them simmer until they are tender, about 1-1.5 hours. Drain the cooked chickpeas and set them aside.
- Sauté the Beef: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and sear them on all sides until browned.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add a bit more olive oil if needed, and sauté the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and chili pepper (if using) until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the Pastes and Spices: Stir in the red pepper paste and tomato paste, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the pastes are well-incorporated and fragrant. Add the dried basil, thyme, and mint, stirring to combine.
- Simmer the Stew: Return the beef cubes to the pot and add the cooked chickpeas. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients, then season with salt to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the stew simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Adjust and Serve: Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Conclusion:
This Hearty Mediterranean Chickpea and Beef Stew is a perfect way to enjoy the robust flavors of the Mediterranean in a warming, satisfying dish. The combination of tender beef, nutty chickpeas, and aromatic spices creates a stew that’s rich in taste and texture. Ideal for a comforting family dinner or as a meal to share with friends, this stew will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation. Enjoy it on a cool evening for a nourishing and flavorful experience.