Make-Ahead Vegetarian Moroccan Stew

Recipe View 5 mins Step 1: Craft the Moroccan Spice Blend (5 minutes). In a small bowl, meticulously combine the cinnamon, cumin, salt, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, turmeric, and curry powder. Set aside this aromatic elixir – the very heart of our stew.

Recipe View 7 mins Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics (5-10 minutes). In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped sweet onion and sauté until softened and just beginning to caramelize, releasing its sweet fragrance.

Recipe View 2 mins Step 3: Awaken the Spices (2 minutes). Introduce the shredded kale to the pot, followed by the prepared spice mixture. Stir continuously, allowing the kale to gently wilt and the spices to bloom, filling your kitchen with their intoxicating aroma.

Recipe View 5 mins Step 4: Build the Stew (5 minutes). Pour in the vegetable broth, then add the drained garbanzo beans, undrained diced tomatoes, diced potatoes, diced sweet potatoes, chopped carrots, rinsed lentils, chopped dried apricots, and honey. Stir well to combine all the elements, ensuring a harmonious blend of flavors.

Recipe View 5 mins Step 5: The First Simmer (5 minutes). Bring the stew to a vigorous boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and allow the stew to simmer gently for 5 minutes. This initial simmer allows the flavors to begin melding together.

Recipe View 35 mins Step 6: Cooling and Resting (30-40 minutes). Remove the pot from the heat and let the stew cool slightly, uncovered, for 30-40 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to deepen and intensify. Cover the pot and refrigerate for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Recipe View 25 mins Step 7: The Final Simmer (25 minutes). When ready to serve, remove the stew from the refrigerator and bring it back to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and simmer gently until the vegetables are tender and the stew is heated through, approximately 25 minutes. Season generously with freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Recipe View 5 mins Step 8: Achieve the Perfect Consistency (5 minutes, optional). If a thicker stew is desired, create a slurry by dissolving the cornstarch in the water. Slowly drizzle the slurry into the simmering stew, stirring constantly until the stew thickens to your desired consistency, about 5 minutes more.