Let's Get Rockin.....Vegan Moroccan Stew

Well I guess it is quite evident that I have been in a soup/stew mood lately.  I think the dip in temperature has made me crave some body warming goodness.  The best part is, you do not have to be kitchen savvy to make soups or stews.  They are literally the easiest thing to make.  And, usually quite inexpensive as well.  Always great to make when you have leftovers or when your veggies are about to spoil.

Even though many people consider Moroccan cuisine, similar to Middle Eastern cuisine, it does have some slight differences.  For one, it is much more heavily spiced.  Though, many of the spices are similar, such as cinnamon, turmeric, ginger and paprika....which (shocker) are all present in this recipe.  


Vegan Moroccan Stew

In my opinion, when serving this dish, the best accompaniment is Middle Eastern couscous.  Don't get this confused with Israeli Couscous though!  As mentioned in a previous post, middle eastern couscous is made up of granules, whereas the Israeli version is almost that of a pearl-like pasta (though still used with duram wheat).





Ingredients:
1 tbsp evoo
1 yellow onion chopped
2 garlic cloves minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger minced
2 carrots peeled and chopped
2 stalks celery chopped
1 sweet potato peeled and chopped
1 bell pepper seeded and chopped (color is of your desire)
2 can chickpeas drained and rinsed
1 zucchini sliced
1 can crushed tomatoes
2 c vegetable broth
3 tsp cinnamin
2 tsp cumin
2 tsp paprika
2 tsp tumeric
salt
1 tbsp sriracha (or your favorite hot sauce)
1 package couscous
***add in more seasonings to your taste- this is just a base***

In a large pot, heat evoo over med-high heat and saute onion, garlic, ginger, carrots and celery for about 5 minutes.  Add in sweet potato and bell peppers and continute to saute for another 5 minutes.  Add in crushed tomatoes and veggie broth and bring to boil.  While it is on its way to a boil, throw in chickpeas, zucchini and all the spices.  Once boiling, cover and simmer for about 20-30 minutes.  Adjust seasoning to taste.
In the last 5 minutes, cook couscous according to package.

Enjoy!