Spiced Chickpea and Vegetable Casserole
Cuisine: Other
Categories: Vegetarian, Casseroles & Main Course
A hearty single-pan vegetarian casserole infused with warm Middle Eastern and Indian spices, combining chickpeas and fresh vegetables in a creamy coconut sauce.

Difficulty: MEDIUM
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Serving Size: Serves 4
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup diced tomatoes, canned
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Juice of half a lemon
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or pan over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cook for 1 minute until aromatic.
- Add cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, and chili powder. Stir continuously for 1 minute to toast the spices.
- Add diced carrot, red bell pepper, and cauliflower florets. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until vegetables start to soften.
- Stir in chickpeas and diced tomatoes. Cook for 3 minutes to combine flavors.
- Pour in coconut milk, season with salt and pepper, and stir well.
- Bring mixture to a gentle simmer, then transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Bake uncovered for 20 minutes until vegetables are tender and casserole is bubbling.
- Remove from oven and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.