Spiced Chickpea and Beef Stew
Discover the rich flavors of North Africa with this Spiced Chickpea and Beef Stew, also known as 'Markit Ommala.' This hearty dish combines tender beef, earthy chickpeas, and vibrant vegetables, all simmered to perfection in a savory broth. The addition of fresh herbs and spices lends depth and warmth, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. Serve it with thick slices of rustic bread to soak up the flavorful sauce, and let every spoonful transport you to the sun-soaked streets of Moroccan bazaars. A delightful dish that’s as satisfying as it is unique!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
17
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
1/4 cup (for sautéing)
beef
1 lb (cut into 1/2-inch cubes)
onions
2 medium (chopped)
cilantro
1/2 cup (finely chopped)
fresh hot pepper
1/2-1 (finely chopped (such as jalapeno))
garlic cloves
4 (minced)
chickpeas
2 (19 ounce) cans (undrained)
medium tomatoes
4 (diced (or a 15-oz can diced tomatoes))
salt
to taste
pepper
to taste
cumin
1/2 teaspoon
thyme
1/2 teaspoon
low sodium beef broth
1 cup
water
1 cup
green olives
1/4 cup (pitted and chopped (with pimentos removed))
lemon juice
2 tablespoons
dipping bread
as needed (cut into thick slices (optional))
Instructions
1
In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed beef and sauté until browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes.
2
Once the meat is browned, add the chopped onions and finely chopped hot pepper. Sauté for about 6 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.
3
Stir in the minced garlic and chopped cilantro, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes. Be cautious not to let the garlic brown, as it may become bitter.
4
Add the undrained chickpeas, diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, cumin, thyme, beef broth, and water to the pot. Stir well to combine.
5
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 50 minutes or until the beef is tender.
6
Remove the lid, increase the heat to medium-high, and cook for another 10 minutes, allowing the stew to thicken slightly.
7
Finally, stir in the chopped green olives and lemon juice, letting the stew simmer on low heat for 5 more minutes to meld the flavors.
8
Serve hot, accompanied by thick slices of rustic bread for dipping.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spiced Chickpea and Beef Stew?
Spiced Chickpea and Beef Stew, also known as 'Markit Ommala,' is a hearty North African dish that combines tender beef, chickpeas, and vibrant vegetables in a savory broth.
What is the alternative name for this dish?
This dish is also known as Markit Ommala.
What are the primary ingredients in this stew?
The main ingredients include beef, chickpeas, onions, cilantro, garlic, tomatoes, and a blend of spices like cumin and thyme.
How long does it take to brown the beef?
The beef should be sautéed in olive oil for approximately 4-5 minutes until browned on all sides.
Should the chickpeas be drained before adding them?
No, the recipe specifies using two 19-ounce cans of undrained chickpeas.
What type of hot pepper is recommended?
The recipe suggests using 1/2 to 1 finely chopped fresh hot pepper, such as a jalapeno.
How do I prepare the beef for the stew?
The beef should be cut into 1/2-inch cubes before cooking.
How long should the onions be sautéed?
Sauté the chopped onions and hot pepper for about 6 minutes until they are soft and translucent.
How do I prevent the garlic from becoming bitter?
Cook the minced garlic for only 1-2 minutes and be cautious not to let it brown.
What spices are used to season the stew?
The stew is seasoned with salt, pepper, cumin, and thyme.
How long is the initial simmering time?
Once all main ingredients are added, the stew should simmer covered for 50 minutes or until the beef is tender.
How can I thicken the stew?
Remove the lid and increase the heat to medium-high, cooking for another 10 minutes to allow the liquid to reduce.
When should I add the olives and lemon juice?
These are added at the very end, followed by a final 5-minute simmer to meld the flavors.
What kind of olives are used in this recipe?
Use 1/4 cup of pitted and chopped green olives with the pimentos removed.
What should I serve with Markit Ommala?
It is best served hot with thick slices of rustic bread for dipping into the flavorful sauce.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can substitute 4 fresh medium tomatoes with one 15-ounce can of diced tomatoes.
How much olive oil is needed for sautéing?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of olive oil.
Is this a one-pot meal?
Yes, this stew is considered a one-pot meal as everything is prepared in a single large saucepan.
What type of broth is used in the stew?
The recipe uses 1 cup of low sodium beef broth.
How much cilantro is required?
You will need 1/2 cup of finely chopped cilantro.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
While the primary recipe includes beef, it is tagged as having a vegetarian option, likely by substituting the beef and broth.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
The specific serving count is not provided, but it uses 1 lb of beef and 38 oz of chickpeas, making it suitable for a family.
What is the origin of the flavors in this dish?
The dish features flavors inspired by North Africa and Moroccan bazaars.
How many cloves of garlic are used?
The recipe calls for 4 minced garlic cloves.
How much water is added to the pot?
One cup of water is added along with the beef broth.
What is the total approximate simmering time?
The total simmering and thickening time is approximately 65 minutes.
How much lemon juice is needed?
You should add 2 tablespoons of lemon juice at the end of cooking.
Is the bread mandatory for this recipe?
The bread is optional but highly recommended to soak up the savory broth.
What is the texture of the finished stew?
It is a hearty and thick stew with tender meat and soft chickpeas.
What level of heat should be used for the final thickening?
The heat should be increased to medium-high during the 10-minute thickening phase.