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Greek-Style Chickpea Stew with Dumplings Recipe
Ash Tyrrell

Greek-Style Chickpea Stew with Dumplings Recipe

I recently made this Greek-style chickpea stew with dumplings, and I have to say—it completely won me over. The comforting aroma filled my kitchen, and every spoonful tasted like something truly special. I love how simple pantry ingredients come together to create such a rich, hearty dish
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups dried chickpeas soaked overnight – soaking helps them cook evenly and become tender
  • 6 cups water or vegetable broth – broth adds deeper flavor than plain water
  • 1 onion finely chopped – builds a strong aromatic base
  • 2 carrots sliced – adds sweetness and color
  • 2 celery stalks chopped – enhances depth and texture
  • 3 garlic cloves minced – fresh garlic gives a richer flavor than pre-minced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil – use good quality for authentic Greek taste
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice – brightens the stew beautifully
  • 1 tsp dried oregano – classic Greek herb for earthy flavor
  • Salt and black pepper to taste – adjust gradually for balance
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour – forms the base of soft dumplings
  • 1 tsp baking powder – helps dumplings rise and stay fluffy
  • 1/2 tsp salt – enhances overall taste
  • 1/2 cup water – creates a soft dough
  • 2 tbsp olive oil – adds moisture and richness

Method
 

  1. Drain the soaked chickpeas and rinse them well under cold water. Place them in a large pot with fresh water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until tender.
  2. Heat olive oil in a pot and sauté onions until soft and translucent. Add garlic, carrots, and celery, cooking until fragrant. This step builds the base flavor of the stew.
  3. Add the cooked chickpeas along with oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour in broth and let everything simmer together. This allows all the flavors to blend beautifully.
  4. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, water, and olive oil. Stir until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep dumplings light and fluffy.
  5. Drop spoonfuls of dough directly into the simmering stew. Cover the pot and let them cook gently. The steam helps them puff up and cook through.
  6. Once dumplings are cooked, stir in fresh lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. This final touch brightens the entire dish.

Notes

  • I always use freshly squeezed lemon juice—it makes a big difference in flavor
  • Let the stew rest for 10 minutes before serving; it thickens nicely
  • Don’t overcrowd the dumplings; give them space to expand
  • I prefer using vegetable broth instead of water for deeper taste
  • Add a drizzle of olive oil on top before serving for extra richness