Healthy Crockpot Moroccan Chickpeas

Name: Healthy Crockpot Moroccan Chickpeas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 h
Total time: 5 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups dried chickpeas, soaked overnight; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz); 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

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I love making Healthy Crockpot Moroccan Chickpeas because they’re not only simple to prepare but also bursting with rich flavors. The slow-cooking method allows the spices and ingredients to meld perfectly, creating a hearty meal that is both nutritious and satisfying. I enjoy serving this dish over fluffy couscous or with warm pita bread, making it a versatile option that can easily adapt to various dinner styles. It’s become a staple in my home, especially on busy days when I want something healthy without sacrificing flavor.

Created by

Ione Rutherford

Last updated on 2026-01-11T19:39:36.045Z

When I first tried making Healthy Crockpot Moroccan Chickpeas, I was pleasantly surprised by how straightforward the process was. I love mixing garbanzo beans with aromatic spices like cumin and coriander, which enhances the dish's overall flavor. Cooking everything in the crockpot allows the beans to absorb the spices deeply, making every bite deliciously satisfying.

One detail I recommend is to soak the chickpeas overnight before cooking. This not only softens them but also reduces the overall cooking time. The result is a creamy texture with a hint of sweetness from the dried apricots, creating a perfect balance of flavors that I can't get enough of!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Nutritious and packed with protein from chickpeas
Rich spices create an aromatic meal experience
Effortless prep with a healthy slow-cooked finish

Understanding the Ingredients

The chickpeas in this recipe are the star ingredient, offering a hearty texture and ample protein, making them a fantastic replacement for meat. When soaking dried chickpeas overnight, ensure they are fully submerged in water, as they will expand significantly. This process not only softens them but also reduces cooking time. If you're in a pinch for time, canned chickpeas can be utilized; however, adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent them from becoming mushy.

The blend of spices—cumin, coriander, paprika, and cinnamon—takes this dish to another level. Cumin and coriander contribute earthy notes, while paprika adds a subtle sweetness. The cinnamon introduces a warm undertone that complements the sweetness of the dried apricots. If you're looking to experiment, feel free to adjust these spices: try adding cayenne for heat or turmeric for an extra health boost, but remember to retain the balance of flavors.

Perfecting the Slow-Cooking Technique

Slow cooking at low temperatures allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich, aromatic dish. After adding all ingredients to the crockpot, ensure they are mixed thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly. Check the mixture after the initial cooking phase; it should be fragrant and the chickpeas should have softened significantly. If they are still tough after the suggested cooking time, give them an additional hour while checking periodically.

In the final 30 minutes, when you stir in the dried apricots, this step not only adds sweetness but also integrates a chewy texture that contrasts nicely with the tender chickpeas. This timing ensures the apricots soften without losing their shape completely. A tip from my kitchen: if you prefer your chickpeas with a bit more bite, check for doneness about 15 minutes earlier, keeping an eye on them until they reach your desired texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious meal:

Ingredients

2 cups dried chickpeas, soaked overnight
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz)
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Once you have all your ingredients ready, let’s move on to cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your dish:

Prepare the Chickpeas

Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas. Place them into the crockpot.

Add Vegetables and Spices

Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and all the spices to the crockpot. Stir well to combine.

Slow Cook

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for about 5 hours or until the chickpeas are tender.

Finishing Touches

Stir in the chopped dried apricots and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow to cook on low for another 30 minutes.

Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm over couscous or with pita bread.

Your Healthy Crockpot Moroccan Chickpeas are now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or serving with a dollop of yogurt for creaminess.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This dish is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. When reheating, gently warm the chickpeas on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth to maintain moisture and prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave the chickpeas in a covered bowl for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heat distribution.

If you want to store leftovers for longer, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm it up as mentioned. Freezing may slightly alter the texture of the chickpeas, but the flavors will still be deeply satisfying.

Serving Suggestions

I love serving these Moroccan Chickpeas over fluffy couscous, which absorbs the juices beautifully, making each bite flavorful. For a gluten-free option, quinoa or brown rice works wonderfully as alternative bases. Another option is to serve this dish alongside warm pita bread for a delightful dipping experience, enhancing the meal with a satisfying crunch.

For added freshness and nutrition, consider topping the dish with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese, which can balance out the spices. Green toppings like cucumbers or radishes add crunch and color, making your meal visually appealing and even more delicious. I also enjoy a side of roasted vegetables, which complements the rich flavors of the chickpeas.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried?

Yes, but you will need to reduce the cooking time significantly, as canned chickpeas are already cooked.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat before serving.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or any veggies you prefer.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this dish is entirely plant-based and vegan-friendly!