Ever found yourself slumped on the kitchen counter, gazing longingly into the fridge and wrestling with that age-old question: "What's for dinner?" We're right there with you, Mum! You don't want the family to give you a "not again" face, but the truth is, the dinner dilemma is real!
Especially if we add the challenge of having picky eaters in our bunch. You know, those charming yet oh-so-selective tiny food critics whose culinary preferences can make meal planning feel like you've just been handed the Rubik's Cube of recipes. Too spicy? Forget it! Too green? As if! Too exotic? Nice try!
The good news is we have exactly what you need to break from the same-old selection that would please both the kids and kids at heart! Spice up family dinner ideas with our Moroccan Lamb and Chickpea Stew
Hold-up! A Moroccan dish?
Yes, we hear you. It sounds fancy, complicated, and something fit for a professional chef. But don't reach for those frozen fish sticks just yet! This stew is easier than you’d expect; it’s so simple that even your little ones can get in on the kitchen fun!
After all, a delectable and wholesome meal doesn't have to be a complex affair, especially with the hustle and bustle of a busy schedule. The Moroccan Lamb and Chickpea Stew's straightforward steps will help you navigate the process confidently, making it a go-to option for any day of the week.
Plus, it’s more than just a chance for some family-friendly cooking adventure - it's a perfectly balanced meal. Packed with the goodness of tender lamb, protein-rich chickpeas, and a medley of vibrant vegetables, this dish strikes a perfect nutritional harmony that satisfies taste buds and fuels growth.
And those spices? They're not just there for flavour! Traditional Moroccan spices like cumin are known for their anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. So, with every spoonful, you're pleasing the palate and nourishing the body.
Enjoying this stew’s hearty, delicious flavours is also a great way to introduce kids to diverse cuisines. Inspired by rich Moroccan culture, this recipe captures its aromatic essence in a simple pot.
So, if you're ready, let's start a culinary adventure that'll bag smiles without slaving for hours over the oven. A delicious journey awaits, beginning with a bowl filled with the nourishing goodness of Moroccan Lamb and Chickpea Stew!
Moroccan Lamb and Chickpea Stew Recipe
Serves 4 | Cooking time 2 hours (+ 20 minute prep time)
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large eggplant, diced into 3 cm cubes
- 1 tsp fennel seeds
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp coriander
- 1 tsp sweet smoked paprika
- 500 g diced lamb
- 550 g (1 jar) tomato purée
- 400 g (1 can) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- salt and pepper
Method
- Preheat the oven to 180 C.
- Heat oil in a large casserole dish or heavy-based pan over medium heat, then sauté onion, carrot, and garlic for 5 minutes.
- Add eggplant and spices and cook for 5 minutes until softened but not brown, stirring frequently.
- Increase heat and add the lamb. Sear quickly, then add tomato purée and chickpeas, and season to taste.
- Bring to a boil, cover, and cook for up to 2 hours. Add a little water halfway through cooking time if necessary.
- Serve with basmati or couscous in your favourite We Might Be Tiny container.
Modern Mum’s Questions, Answered.
Want to make mealtimes a fun and mess-free dining experience?
Serve up your Moroccan Lamb and Chickpea Stew with cute yet durable Snackies. This silicone snack box isn't just about convenience; they're multi-functional too! It’s an award-winning lunch box that is microwave, dishwasher, oven, and freezer-safe.
Planning for tomorrow's lunch or a picnic in the park?
This flexible toddler companion comes with a bowl, plate, and silicone strap. Simply snap on the Snackies lid, and you've got yourself an air-tight container ready to go. With its snug fit, your hearty stew stays spill-free and in place.
Did you make a generous pot?
Perfect, that's the spirit of Moroccan hospitality! You can keep the stew tasty for up to five days in the fridge or freezer using your Snackies.
Reheating for round two?
To ensure your stew is as inviting as the first time you tasted it, start by setting your oven to 300°F (150°C). Pour the stew into an oven-safe dish and add a splash of broth if needed to maintain that lush consistency. Cover the dish tightly with aluminium foil and warm it for about 5-10 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
With WMBT Snackies, the Moroccan Lamb Stew doesn’t have to be a one-time feast! Make it a part of your regular meal rotation, always ready to delight, whether at home or on the road.
What To Serve With Your Moroccan Lamb and Chickpea Stew
Pairing your Moroccan Lamb and Chickpea Stew with the right sides can elevate the entire dining experience, transforming a simple family dinner into a feast reminiscent of a Moroccan soiree.
Here are some delightful accompaniments that will harmonise with your stew:
- Couscous Carnival: Light and fluffy couscous mixed with fresh herbs, raisins, and a hint of lemon zest.
- Flatbread Fiesta: Warm, soft flatbreads are an excellent vessel for scoping the succulent stew.
- A Rainbow of Grilled Veggies: Drizzle olive oil on grilled seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini, peppers, and eggplants, for extra colour, crunch, and nutrition.
- Must Add Mint: A dollop of refreshing mint yoghourt sauce perfectly complements this hearty dish.
- Cinnamon Spiced Citrus: A classic Moroccan dessert salad - orange slices with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a drizzle of honey adds a burst of freshness - the perfect way to end such a hearty meal.
And there we have our quick & easy Moroccan Lamb and Chickpea Stew, simmering with flavours straight from the heart of Marrakech! As we've explored in this article, busy days don't have to mean compromising on taste or relying on “basic” dinner favourites. With this aromatic and nutrilicious dish, you’ll have a simple yet satisfying meal the whole family will happily gobble up.
So what are you waiting for? Cook, serve, and enjoy a taste of Morocco from the comforts of your home!
Has this Moroccan culinary adventure whetted your appetite for more family-friendly dishes to add to your meal roster? Well, this exciting family dinner idea is just a tasty glimpse into our "Easy Dinner Ideas for Kids" collection. This handy booklet is filled with utterly scrumptious meals and easy dinner recipes that cater to even the most discerning tiny taste buds.
Grab your copy now!
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