If chili packed its bags and went on a sabbatical through the Mediterranean, it would come back as this Mediterranean Bean Stew. It’s got all the cozy, hearty vibes you want in a one-pot meal but swaps the heavy meat and cheese for bold spices, chickpeas, and a swirl of garlicky yogurt that makes each bite sing. Think smoked paprika, harissa, and a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten it all up.
I first threw this together on a cold night when I wanted comfort food that didn’t leave me in a food coma. The result? Warm, spiced, and somehow still fresh — like your favorite chili went on a beach holiday and came back with better seasoning. Oh, and it’s even better the next day (if it lasts that long).
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💛 Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Bean Stew Recipe
Hearty but not a brick: Thanks to lean ground turkey, chickpeas, and beans, you get all the cozy without the nap afterward.
Big flavor, little effort: Warm spices like cumin, oregano, coriander, and smoked paprika do the heavy lifting while you pretend you're the kind of person who casually throws together Mediterranean stews on a Tuesday.
One pot wonder: Toss it all in, let it simmer, and boom, dinner’s sorted. No complicated steps or seven dirty pans.
Meal prep gold: Like most good stews, it tastes even better the next day. If you can resist eating it all in one go.
Make it yours: Go bold with extra harissa, keep it mellow for the kids, or throw in extra veggies if you’re feeling virtuous.
Mediterranean Bean Stew Video
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Ingredient Notes & Tips
Ground Turkey: Lean protein that soaks up all the bold Mediterranean flavors. You can also use chicken or beef if you prefer.
Harissa: The flavor backbone! A North African chili paste that adds depth and smokiness. Sub with red pepper flakes for a milder version.
Chickpeas + Pinto Beans: Classic in a Mediterranean stew, they give heartiness and texture. Feel free to swap in white beans or kidney beans.
Cumin + Smoked Paprika + Coriander: The trio that brings warmth and an earthy backbone.
Crushed Tomatoes and tomato paste: Build that rich base — the natural sweetness balances the spices.
Chicken Broth + Bouillon: Boosts umami and gives the stew body.
Lemon Juice: A squeeze of brightness at the end lifts the whole dish.
Parsley: Adds a fresh pop of color and flavor just before serving.
Instructions
Full recipe and instructions in the recipe card at the end of post
Step 1: Add olive oil and turkey to a pot in a single layer and let it brown undisturbed.
Step 2: Stir in cumin, oregano, coriander, smoked paprika.
Step 3: Add chopped onion, then garlic, cooking until fragrant.
Step 4: Stir in tomato paste, harissa and let it darken, then add crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and bouillon.
Step 5: Add chickpeas, pinto beans, and lemon juice. Cook uncovered for 25 minutes so the flavors meld.
Step 6: Stir in corn and fresh parsley, and serve with a dollop of garlic yogurt sauce on top.
Substitutions & Variations
Toppings: Garnish with feta cheese, olives, or a drizzle of olive oil for a Mediterranean finish.
Protein: Swap turkey for ground chicken, beef, or lamb.
Broth: Use vegetable broth and skip the meat for a vegetarian version.
Add Veggies: Add spinach or kale for a veggie boost.
Add Grains: Stir in a handful of cooked rice or quinoa for a heartier bowl.
FAQ
Yes! Skip the turkey and use vegetable broth — it’s just as hearty.
Mix Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt.
Absolutely. The flavors actually get better after a night in the fridge.
⭐️ Recipe
Mediterranean Bean Stew
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey Turkey
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoon oregano
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- 1.5 tablespoon harrisa or ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 4 garlic cloves crushed
- 24 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoon tomato paste
- 3.5 cups chicken broth
- 2 teaspoon chicken bouillon
- 1 can corn
- 1 can chickpeas
- 1 can pinto beans
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Parsley
Instructions
Brown the Meat
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey in an even layer and let it sear for 3–4 minutes before stirring. Once browned, break it apart with a wooden spoon.2 tablespoon olive oil, 1 lb ground turkey Turkey
Add Spices
- Sprinkle in oregano, garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, coriander. Stir and toast the spices for 1 minute to release their oils.2 teaspoon oregano, 1 tablespoon cumin, 1 tablespoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon coriander
Sauté Aromatics
- Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Add crushed garlic and cook another 30 seconds.1 medium onion chopped, 4 garlic cloves crushed
Build the Base
- Add tomato paste, harissa or red pepper flakes and cook until deepened in color. Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, bouillon, and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer.1.5 tablespoon harrisa or ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, 2 tablespoon tomato paste, 3.5 cups chicken broth, 2 teaspoon chicken bouillon, Juice of 1 lemon
Add Beans & Simmer
- Add chickpeas and pinto beans. Simmer covered for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened slightly.1 can chickpeas, 1 can pinto beans
- Add in corn.1 can corn
Finish & Serve
- Stir in chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning. Ladle into bowls and top with garlic yogurt sauce and a drizzle of olive oil.Parsley
Rachel l. says
I made this last night as it was a perfect time for a stew and it was really good. I like how it came out. Thanks.