Healthy Crockpot Chickpea Tagine

Name: Healthy Crockpot Chickpea Tagine
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup vegetable broth; 2 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love preparing this Healthy Crockpot Chickpea Tagine on busy weekdays. The slow-cooking method allows the spices to meld beautifully, creating a warm and comforting dish that fills the home with delightful aromas. Chickpeas, along with a medley of vegetables, simmer in a broth that’s both tasty and nutritious. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy hearty flavors without spending too much time in the kitchen. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep! I can whip up a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

Created by

Olivia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:16:11.065Z

When I first made this tagine, I wasn't sure how a simple dish could transport me to Morocco. The combination of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon creates a complex flavor profile that’s both exotic and comforting. I discovered that the key is to let the ingredients meld for a long time, as the slow cooker allows each flavor to infuse deeply, making every bite a delightful experience.

Using canned chickpeas cuts down on prep time, but I recommend rinsing them well to reduce sodium content. To add richness, I sometimes stir in a spoonful of nut butter or serve it over fluffy quinoa. This dish has quickly become a family favorite!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Wholesome ingredients packed with plant-based protein
Aromatic spices evoke the essence of Moroccan cuisine
Effortless meal prep that tastes even better the next day

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Chickpeas are not just the star ingredient of this tagine; they're a powerhouse of plant-based protein, making this dish both filling and nutritious. When using canned chickpeas, ensure to rinse them thoroughly to remove excess sodium, enhancing the overall flavor of your dish. Alternatively, if you use dried chickpeas, remember to soak them overnight and adjust your cooking time accordingly for a tender texture.

The blend of spices used in this recipe—cumin, coriander, and cinnamon—brings an authentic Moroccan flair. Cumin adds a warm, earthly depth, while coriander contributes a citrusy note. The cinnamon introduces a hint of sweetness, balancing the savory elements beautifully. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding a pinch of cayenne for heat, or swapping in ras el hanout for a more complex spice profile.

Cooking Technique Insights

Using a crockpot allows these flavors to meld over a long cooking period, enhancing the overall depth of the dish. For best results, set your crockpot to low heat for 8 hours, which allows the vegetables to become tender and the chickpeas to absorb all the spice goodness. If you're short on time, cooking on high for 4 hours is acceptable, but keep an eye on the texture; the veggies should be soft but not mushy.

If you're considering meal prep, this dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to five days. You can easily double the recipe for batch cooking and freeze portions. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth to restore moisture and prevent it from drying out. If you prefer a thicker consistency, cook it uncovered for the last 30 minutes to allow some liquid to evaporate.

Serving and Enjoying

When serving your Chickpea Tagine, consider pairing it with warm bread or couscous to soak up the delicious broth. A side of yogurt or a drizzle of tahini can add a creamy contrast that complements the spices. If you enjoy heat, a sprinkle of chili flakes or a dash of harissa can elevate the dish even further for those who appreciate a spicy kick.

For a vibrant finish, fresh cilantro not only acts as a garnish but also adds brightness to the flavor profile. If cilantro isn’t your favorite, fresh parsley works beautifully as a substitute. Experiment with additional toppings like toasted almonds or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra zest—these variations can enhance the dish's complexity and satisfy varying palates.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 onion, finely chopped
2 carrots, sliced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup vegetable broth
2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp ground cinnamon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to adjust the spices according to your taste!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your tagine:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, onion, carrots, bell pepper, and garlic.

Season the Mixture

Add the vegetable broth, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

Cook in the Crockpot

Transfer the mixture to the crockpot and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours until the vegetables are tender.

Serve and Garnish

Once cooked, serve the tagine hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy this delicious and healthy dish!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables or adjust the spices to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to adjust the ingredients based on dietary preferences, consider swapping the vegetable broth for a low-sodium option if salt is a concern. Alternatively, for a heartier variant, you can add lentils which provide additional protein and pair well with the spices. For those avoiding tomatoes, using butternut squash will not only maintain the dish's essence but add a lovely sweetness.

For a gluten-free option, serve the tagine over rice instead of bread or couscous. Quinoa is another excellent alternative that complements the dish's flavors while adding its own nutty undertones. Also, feel free to load the tagine with seasonal vegetables like zucchini or sweet potatoes—these will absorb the flavors beautifully while enhancing the dish's nutritional profile.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that the tagine is too watery after cooking, simply remove the lid for the last 30 minutes to allow excess moisture to evaporate. On the other hand, if it turns out too thick, stir in a bit more vegetable broth until you reach your desired consistency. If you’re uncertain about spice levels, start with less cumin and coriander; you can always adjust to your taste after the dish has cooked.

Should you encounter undercooked vegetables after the recommended cooking time, it's likely due to variations in slow cooker models. You may need to increase the cooking time by 30 minutes, adding extra liquid as necessary to ensure everything cooks through without burning. Lastly, remember to taste your tagine before serving; sometimes, all it needs is an extra pinch of salt or a touch more cinnamon to really bring the flavors together.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure your crockpot is large enough to accommodate the additional ingredients.

→ How long does leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I freeze this tagine?

Yes, it freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

→ What can I serve with tagine?

Serve it over couscous or quinoa for a complete meal, or with crusty bread for dipping.