Healthy Crockpot Vegetable Tagine

Name: Healthy Crockpot Vegetable Tagine
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients: 2 cups chickpeas, cooked; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 1 zucchini, diced; 2 bell peppers, chopped; 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups vegetable broth; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Meals Inspiration

I love making this Healthy Crockpot Vegetable Tagine on busy days when I want a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of spices, tender vegetables, and chickpeas not only fills my home with a delightful aroma but also ensures that my family is getting a wholesome dish packed with vitamins and minerals. The best part is simply setting everything in the crockpot and letting it do its magic while I tackle other tasks. You’ll love how easy and satisfying it is, too!

Created by

Grace Walker

Last updated on 2026-01-11T20:49:34.976Z

When I first experimented with this Healthy Crockpot Vegetable Tagine, I was amazed at how vibrant the flavors combined over a long cooking time. The slow simmer allows the vegetables to soften beautifully while absorbing the spices, resulting in a hearty dish that warms the soul. A tip I discovered is to layer the vegetables starting with the denser ones like carrots, which ensures that everything cooks evenly.

Another win for me was adding a hint of cinnamon, which surprisingly elevates the dish without overpowering it. I've made this tagine multiple times, and each time I tweak the vegetable blend depending on what's in season. You can get really creative, and I promise it will always be a hit!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A beautiful mix of spices that makes every bite exciting
Convenient, healthy meal prep for busy weeks
Vegan and gluten-free, perfect for everyone

      

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this Healthy Crockpot Vegetable Tagine plays a crucial role in delivering texture and flavor. For instance, chickpeas are not just a protein-rich component but also contribute a creamy texture that balances the crunch of fresh vegetables. When selecting your vegetables, opt for those that are in season for the best flavor and nutritional profile. Zucchini and bell peppers add sweetness and color, making the dish visually appealing and enticing.

The spices in this recipe are the heart of the tagine. Cumin and coriander provide a warm, earthy base, while paprika adds depth and a slight kick. Cinnamon may seem unusual, but it beautifully complements the other spices, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Don't hesitate to adjust the spice levels according to your preference; if you're looking for more heat, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or a few chopped jalapeños.

Slow Cooking Tips

Getting the most out of your crockpot means understanding how to layer your ingredients. Start with denser vegetables like carrots and onions at the bottom, followed by the chickpeas and lighter ingredients on top. This ensures that everything cooks evenly and prevents the more delicate veggies from becoming mushy. If you notice that your vegetables are not softening, you might need to increase cooking time by 30 minutes or so, especially if you're using fresh produce that tends to be firmer.

Another great tip is to allow the tagine to sit in the crockpot for a while after cooking. This resting period not only allows flavors to meld and intensify but also gives you the option to adjust the seasoning just before serving. If you find the mixture too thick upon finishing, you can always add a splash of vegetable broth to thin it out without compromising on flavor.

Serving and Storage

When it comes to serving your Healthy Crockpot Vegetable Tagine, consider pairing it with a side of couscous or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. A dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of toasted almonds can add an extra layer of richness and texture. If you prefer a more substantial meal, consider serving it over rice for a fulfilling dinner option that keeps you satisfied.

As for leftovers, this dish stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to five days. Simply transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. To reheat, warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to keep it moist. You can also freeze portions for up to three months; just ensure it's fully cooled before transferring it to freezer-safe containers to avoid freezer burn.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delicious tagine:

Ingredients

2 cups chickpeas, cooked
1 large onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
1 zucchini, diced
2 bell peppers, chopped
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups vegetable broth
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Once you have everything, you can start combining and cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your tagine:

Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing and chopping all the vegetables into even-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

Combine the Ingredients

In your slow cooker, add the chopped vegetables, chickpeas, diced tomatoes, garlic, and all the spices.

Add the Liquid

Pour the vegetable broth over the mixture, making sure everything is well combined.

Set the Crockpot

Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours.

Serve

Once cooked, taste for seasoning, adjust as needed, and serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your shiny, colorful, and flavorful vegetable tagine!

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables or add some dried fruits like apricots or raisins for a touch of sweetness.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to customize the tagine based on what you have at home, many ingredient substitutions work well. For instance, you can replace chickpeas with lentils for a different texture, or use sweet potatoes instead of carrots for a sweeter, earthier flavor. Feel free to mix in additional vegetables like eggplant or mushrooms, which will add a unique depth to the dish. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly based on the texture of the veggies you choose.

For a gluten-free option, check that your vegetable broth is certified gluten-free. Additionally, if you want to amp up the protein even further, consider adding some cubed tofu or tempeh. Just sauté it first until golden before adding it to the crockpot.

Variations to Try

There are many fun variations you can try to keep this Healthy Crockpot Vegetable Tagine fresh and exciting. For a Mediterranean twist, add olives and feta once the dish is done cooking. For an Asian-inspired version, incorporate soy sauce, ginger, and bok choy in place of some of the original spices and vegetables. Experimenting with different herbs such as mint or basil can also give a vibrant new flavor profile.

Moreover, if you're a fan of heat, consider developing a curry-flavored tagine by incorporating coconut milk and curry powder. This not only changes the flavor but also gives the dish a creamy consistency that pairs well with the vegetables and chickpeas.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this tagine in advance?

Absolutely! This dish tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead of time.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are gluten-free, making it a perfect choice for gluten-intolerant individuals.

→ What can I serve with this tagine?

It's delightful on its own, but serves well with couscous or crusty bread to soak up the flavors.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this tagine freezes wonderfully! Just make sure to cool it completely before storing it in an airtight container.