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As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there's nothing quite like the comfort of a warm, hearty stew to embrace the essence of the season. The Harvest Harmony: Butternut Squash & Chickpea Stew captures this spirit perfectly, offering a delightful medley of flavors that nourishes both the body and soul. This recipe is a celebration of autumn, showcasing the vibrant colors and rich tastes of seasonal produce, while also being a nutritious option for those seeking a wholesome meal.

Butternut Squash & Chickpea Stew

Warm up this autumn with the comforting flavors of Butternut Squash & Chickpea Stew. This wholesome recipe combines creamy butternut squash and protein-rich chickpeas for a nourishing meal. Bursting with vibrant vegetables and delicious spices, it’s easy to prepare and perfect for cozy evenings. Learn about the health benefits, step-by-step preparation, and serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience. This stew will quickly become a seasonal favorite!
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Ingredients
  

1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, thoroughly drained and rinsed

1 medium onion, finely diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium carrots, sliced into rounds

1 red bell pepper, diced into small pieces

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, including juice

4 cups vegetable broth

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon turmeric

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

2 cups fresh spinach or kale, roughly chopped

Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

Juice of 1 lime (optional for added zest)

Instructions
 

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and softened. Next, stir in the minced garlic, sliced carrots, and diced red bell pepper. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften and are fragrant.

    Spice it Up: Add the ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, and turmeric to the pot. Stir for about 1 minute, allowing the spices to toast slightly and release their aromatic flavors.

      Add Squash and Tomatoes: Incorporate the cubed butternut squash and the diced tomatoes (with all their juices). Mix well to ensure that everything is evenly coated with the spices.

        Pour in the Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the entire mixture to a gentle simmer. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference.

          Add Chickpeas: Once the stew reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and add the rinsed chickpeas. Cover the pot and let it simmer for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the butternut squash becomes tender when pierced with a fork.

            Incorporate Greens: Stir in the fresh spinach or kale, continuing to cook for an additional 5 minutes until the greens have wilted and are tender.

              Finishing Touches: Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper as desired. For an added burst of flavor, stir in the lime juice just before serving.

                Serve: Ladle the hearty stew into bowls and, if you like, garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. This delightful stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or can be served over a bed of rice for a complete meal. Enjoy this warm and nourishing dish!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 40 mins | 4 servings