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.