Healthy Crockpot Moroccan Chickpeas

Name: Healthy Crockpot Moroccan Chickpeas
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped; 2 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp turmeric; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Wholesome Cooking

I love making Healthy Crockpot Moroccan Chickpeas because they are not only deeply flavorful but also incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of spices meld together beautifully as they simmer, filling my kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Each bite offers a balance of textures and tastes that keep me coming back for more. Plus, this dish is perfect for meal prep, making it a fantastic option for busy weekdays. I've found that serving it over couscous or quinoa adds an extra dimension to the meal!

Created by

Camille Norwood

Last updated on 2026-01-11T21:54:42.387Z

When I first tried making Moroccan chickpeas in my slow cooker, I was amazed at how the flavors developed with minimal effort. The warmth of cumin and coriander combined with the sweetness of apricots makes for an alluring dish that feels both comforting and exotic. I usually let the chickpeas cook for at least four hours to achieve a rich, velvety texture.

Another tip I've learned is to add fresh lemon juice just before serving. It brightens the entire dish and complements the spices beautifully. Paired with a dollop of yogurt and fresh herbs, this meal becomes an instant crowd-pleaser at family gatherings!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for busy days.
Aromatic spices create a warm and inviting dish.
Nutritious plant-based protein packed with fiber.

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the chickpeas, which provide not only protein but also a satisfying texture that holds up well during cooking. Soaking them overnight ensures they cook evenly and become tender, while also aiding in digestibility. If you're short on time, canned chickpeas can be substituted, but they won’t absorb the flavors as well, and you’ll need to adjust the cooking time significantly, as they require only about 30 minutes in the crockpot.

The blend of spices in this recipe plays a crucial role in developing the dish's unique flavor profile. Ground cumin adds warmth and earthiness, while coriander brightens it up with citrus notes. The cinnamon and turmeric contribute both a rich aroma and a vibrant color to the dish. If you're interested in experimenting, you can try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or a dash of smoked paprika for a deeper flavor sensation.

Cooking Tips and Techniques

When loading your crockpot, make sure to stir the ingredients well to allow the spices to distribute evenly. This not only enhances the flavor but also ensures each chickpea is evenly coated with the aromatic spices. If your mixture seems too thick before cooking, don't hesitate to add a bit more vegetable broth; achieving the right consistency is key to a delicious, stew-like outcome. You’re looking for a texture that should be saucy but not too runny.

Monitoring the cooking time is essential to avoid mushy chickpeas. If you opt for the high setting, check for doneness around the 4-hour mark; they should be tender but not falling apart. If you decide to cook them on low, give them 6 to 8 hours and stir occasionally if possible. Remember, the longer they cook, the more the flavors develop and meld together, creating a hearty dish.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your healthy Moroccan chickpeas!

Ingredients

1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped
2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp turmeric
Salt and pepper to taste
4 cups vegetable broth
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure all of your ingredients are ready before starting!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your Moroccan chickpeas.

Prepare the Ingredients

Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, chopped onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, apricots, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, salt, and pepper.

Combine in the Crockpot

Transfer the mixture to the crockpot and add the vegetable broth. Stir well to combine.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 4 to 5 hours until the chickpeas are tender and the flavors meld.

Serve

Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your deliciously aromatic Moroccan chickpeas!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating a splash of lemon juice before serving to enhance the dish’s brightness.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Crockpot Moroccan Chickpeas recipe excels in meal prep. You can prepare the ingredients a day in advance, combining everything in your crockpot insert and storing it in the refrigerator overnight. Just add the vegetable broth in the morning and set it to cook while you go about your day. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days, making it a convenient option for busy workweeks.

If you wish to freeze this dish, allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. The chickpeas freeze well and can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth for moisture.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this dish over a bed of fluffy couscous or quinoa elevates it to a complete and satisfying meal. Couscous, with its light texture, soaks up the delightful broth, while quinoa adds a nice nutty flavor along with additional protein. For a fresh contrast, consider serving with a simple side salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil to brighten the meal.

You can also top the chickpeas with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese for extra creaminess and flavor. If you’re looking to heighten the Moroccan theme, adding toasted almonds, pine nuts, or sesame seeds right before serving can lend a nice crunch and a touch of elegance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried?

Yes, you can use canned chickpeas, just reduce the cooking time as they are already cooked. Add them in the last hour of cooking.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This dish is plant-based and perfect for vegans.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure any additional ingredients you use, like broth or garnishes, are also gluten-free.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the chickpeas for up to 3 months.