Hello lovely readers!
Today, I’m thrilled to share a recipe that brings a little slice of Spain into your home with minimal effort and maximum flavor. If you’re anything like me, at the end of a busy day with the kids, there’s nothing more satisfying than a hearty, deeply flavorful stew that gives everyone a warming hug from the inside out. And this Smoky Chorizo and Chickpea Stew does just that!
The star of the show here is, of course, the chorizo. This delightful sausage doesn’t just bring a smoky, spicy flavor but also adds a certain rustic charm that’s perfect for family meals. Pair it with rich, nutty chickpeas, and you’ve got yourself a dish that’s both packed with protein and brimming with delicious, comforting flavors.
As much as I enjoy fine dining, my heart belongs to simple, fuss-free dishes that evoke memories of travel and adventure. Cooking up this stew almost makes me feel like I’m walking through a bustling Spanish market, hypnotized by the aroma of spices wafting through the air. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you, and that’s the magic of cooking at home.
Let’s take a moment to talk about the preparation. Rest assured, it’s as straightforward as it gets. The stew comes together effortlessly, with the chorizo rendering its flavorful oils to create a base that infuses every ingredient with its essence. Meanwhile, the smoked paprika and cumin enhance the smoky notes, while a dash of patience as it simmers away ensures every flavour has its moment to shine.
This stew is perfect for any day of the week, whether you’re fitting in a family dinner around school runs and post-work chaos, or simply yearning for a comforting weekend feast. Plus, it tastes even better the next day, which is a huge win for those of us needing to reheat and repeat during those busy weekdays.
I personally love serving this with fresh crusty bread to mop up every drop of the stew. There’s something so satisfying about tearing into a loaf of bread, don’t you agree? And trust me, when you see the kids (and the hubby!) diving back in for seconds, you’ll know you have a recipe that’s a keeper.
I do hope you give this recipe a whirl and let it whisk you away to the cozy, sunny terraces of Spain. Don’t forget to let me know how it goes—I’d love to hear your family’s verdict!
Wishing you a warm kitchen and satisfied tummies,
Al
Ingredients
– 200g chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 400g can of chopped tomatoes
– 400g can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 500ml chicken stock
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Fresh crusty bread, to serve
Method
1. Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the sliced chorizo sausage and cook for about 5 minutes until it becomes crispy and releases its oils.
2. Remove the chorizo from the pot with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the oil in the pot.
3. Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and diced red bell pepper, cooking for another 3 minutes until the pepper begins to soften.
5. Add the smoked paprika and ground cumin to the pot, stirring for 1 minute until the spices are fragrant.
6. Pour in the canned chopped tomatoes, drained chickpeas, chicken stock, and add the bay leaf. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
7. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
8. Return the crispy chorizo to the pot and continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
9. Season the stew with salt and pepper to taste, and remove the bay leaf before serving.
10. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and accompanied by fresh crusty bread.
