Easy Meatless North African Stew

This hearty North African style vegetarian stew is brimming with protein and fresh vegetables in a fragrant mix, yet is so simple to prepare. To make this a no-chop meal, buy an already diced onion and celery mix from your supermarket.

1 teaspoon olive oil

½ C. chopped sweet onion

½ C. chopped celery

1 ½ teaspoons jarred, minced garlic, (or three whole chopped garlic cloves)

1 C. whole baby carrots

¾ teaspoon ground cumin

¼ t. black pepper

1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 ½ C. canned crushed tomatoes

6 ounces of drained, canned chickpeas (garbanzo beans)

(to add a little spicy heat add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, or red hot pepper sauce to taste)

In a large saucepan, cook onions, celery and garlic in oil for 3-4 minutes over medium heat.

Add carrots and spices and cook 1 more minute, stirring constantly.

Add remaining tomatoes and chickpeas and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to simmer, partially covered for 20 minutes or until the carrots are tender.