Slow Cooker Beef and Chickpea Stew

Description

Slow Cooker Beef and Chickpea Stew is a rich, hearty, and comforting meal made with tender beef, protein-packed chickpeas, vegetables, tomatoes, and warm spices slowly simmered for deep flavor. The slow cooker makes the beef melt-in-your-mouth tender while blending all ingredients into a nourishing one-pot dinner perfect for cold days or meal prep.

Ingredients

• 1½ lbs (680 g) beef stew meat, cubed
• 2 cans chickpeas (15 oz each), drained and rinsed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 3 cups beef broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• ½ tsp cinnamon (optional for warmth)
• 1 tsp dried oregano or thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Method

Step 1: Brown Beef (Optional)

Heat olive oil in a skillet. Brown beef cubes for 3–4 minutes for extra flavor.

Step 2: Add to Slow Cooker

Place beef, chickpeas, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth into slow cooker.

Step 3: Season

Add salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, cinnamon, oregano, and bay leaf.

Step 4: Cook

Cover and cook on Low for 7–8 hours or High for 4–5 hours, until beef is tender.

Step 5: Finish

Remove bay leaf. Stir well and adjust seasoning.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot garnished with parsley or cilantro. Great with bread, rice, or couscous.

Time Taken

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 7–8 hours Low
• Total Time: About 8 hours

Servings

Serves 6 people

Nutritional Info (Per Serving Approx.)

• Calories: 410
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 7g
• Sodium: 620mg

Benefits

• High in protein from beef and chickpeas
• Rich in fiber for digestion
• Filling and satisfying meal
• Great for meal prep and leftovers
• Contains iron, zinc, and B vitamins
• Easy hands-off slow cooker recipe

Notes

• Browning beef adds deeper flavor but is optional.
• Use low-sodium broth if preferred.
• Stew thickens as it cools.
• Chickpeas should be added drained and rinsed.

Tips

• Add potatoes for extra heartiness.
• Use smoked paprika for richer taste.
• Add spinach in the last 15 minutes.
• Serve with lemon wedges for brightness.
• Freeze portions for quick meals.

Q&A

Q: Can I use dried chickpeas?

Yes, but soak and cook them first.

Q: Can I use another meat?

Yes, lamb or chicken can work.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, freeze up to 3 months.

Q: How do I thicken the stew?

Mash some chickpeas or add a cornstarch slurry.

Q: What sides go best?

Bread, rice, couscous, or mashed potatoes.