Butternut Chickpea Coconut Stew

Highlighted under: Nutritious & Delicious Meals

This Butternut Chickpea Coconut Stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together the sweetness of butternut squash, the creaminess of coconut milk, and the protein-packed goodness of chickpeas.

Ella

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-12-29T14:31:27.258Z

This stew is perfect for a cozy dinner and is packed with nutrients. The combination of spices creates a warm and inviting aroma that will fill your kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and creamy texture that warms the soul
  • Perfect blend of spices for a comforting flavor
  • Nutritious and filling, great for a healthy meal

A Cozy Meal for Any Occasion

Butternut Chickpea Coconut Stew is more than just a dish; it's a warm embrace on a chilly evening. The combination of butternut squash and chickpeas not only satisfies your hunger but also nourishes your body with essential nutrients. This stew is perfect for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or meal prep for the week ahead. Its versatility means it can be enjoyed alone or served with a side of crusty bread or over rice for a heartier meal.

One of the great aspects of this stew is its adaptability. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices to suit your taste. Carrots, spinach, or sweet potatoes can be excellent additions, enhancing both the flavor and nutritional profile. This stew is also a wonderful way to introduce new flavors to younger palates, making it a family-friendly dish that everyone can enjoy.

Nutritional Benefits

This Butternut Chickpea Coconut Stew is packed with health benefits, making it a fantastic choice for a wholesome meal. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, promoting healthy skin and a robust immune system. Chickpeas provide a great source of protein and fiber, which help in maintaining a healthy digestive system and keeping you full longer.

Coconut milk adds a touch of creaminess while also offering healthy fats. These fats are known to support brain health and provide a quick source of energy. With the addition of spices like turmeric and ginger, known for their anti-inflammatory properties, this stew serves not only as a delicious meal but also as a nourishing remedy for your body.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start cooking!

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious stew.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute.

Add the Spices

Add the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot. Stir well and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Incorporate the Squash and Chickpeas

Add the cubed butternut squash and chickpeas to the pot, stirring to coat them with the spices.

Pour in Coconut Milk and Broth

Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cover. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your hearty stew!

Pairing Suggestions

To complement the rich flavors of Butternut Chickpea Coconut Stew, consider serving it with a side of fluffy jasmine rice or quinoa. Both options will soak up the delicious sauce while adding an extra layer of texture to your meal. Alternatively, a slice of crusty bread or naan can be perfect for dipping and enjoying every last bite.

For a refreshing contrast, a simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the stew. You might also enjoy pairing it with a light, fruity beverage, such as coconut water or a citrus-infused iced tea, to enhance the tropical flavors of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serving Butternut Chickpea Coconut Stew in individual bowls can make for a beautiful presentation, especially when garnished with fresh cilantro. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top can add a hint of spice for those who enjoy a little extra heat. For a more gourmet touch, consider adding a dollop of yogurt or a swirl of coconut cream before serving.

This stew can also be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish for grilled meats or seafood, making it a versatile option for entertaining. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own, but it can easily complement a variety of proteins, creating a balanced and satisfying meal for your guests.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen butternut squash?

Yes, frozen butternut squash works well in this recipe and can save you prep time.

→ Is this stew vegan?

Absolutely! This Butternut Chickpea Coconut Stew is completely vegan and dairy-free.

→ How can I make this stew spicier?

You can add more cayenne pepper or include diced jalapeños for extra heat.

→ Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes, this stew can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Butternut Chickpea Coconut Stew

This Butternut Chickpea Coconut Stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together the sweetness of butternut squash, the creaminess of coconut milk, and the protein-packed goodness of chickpeas.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time45 minutes

Created by: Ella

Recipe Type: Nutritious & Delicious Meals

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  2. 1 medium onion, chopped
  3. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  4. 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  5. 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  6. 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  7. 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  8. 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  9. 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
  10. 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  11. 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
  12. 2 cups vegetable broth
  13. Salt and pepper to taste
  14. Fresh cilantro for garnish

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large pot, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute.

Step 02

Add the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot. Stir well and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 03

Add the cubed butternut squash and chickpeas to the pot, stirring to coat them with the spices.

Step 04

Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cover. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender.

Step 05

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Total Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Dietary Fiber: 10g
  • Sugars: 6g
  • Protein: 12g