Warm, nourishing, and packed with plant-based flavor in just 30 minutes.
Introduction
When the weather cools and you crave something cozy, there’s nothing more comforting than a bowl of creamy, spice-kissed stew. Traditionally made with chicken and sour cream, Hungarian Paprikash is known for its rich flavors and warming paprika base. But what if you could enjoy all that hearty depth—minus the meat? Enter Chickpea Paprikash, the plant-based comfort dish you didn’t know you needed.
Este vegan and budget-friendly version features chickpeas as the main protein, replacing the chicken with something just as satisfying. It’s perfect for anyone looking for healthy vegetarian meals for one, an easy 30-minute vegetarian dinner, or a delicious way to sneak more secret veggie meals into the week. With accessible pantry staples and minimal prep, Chickpea Paprikash is proof that cheap lunch recipes can still taste gourmet.
Why You’ll Love This Chickpea Paprikash Recipe
- Plant-Based Comfort Food: It’s a full-on hug in a bowl—hearty, smoky, and ultra-satisfying without any dairy or meat.
- Pantry-Friendly & Budget-Conscious: No fancy ingredients here. Just chickpeas, onions, peppers, garlic, and spices.
- Weeknight-Ready: From chopping board to bowl in 30 minutes.
- Versatile & Customizable: Add greens, swap spices, or stir in coconut milk for extra richness.
- Meal Prep Approved: It tastes even better the next day and keeps well for up to 4 days in the fridge.
What Is Paprikash?
Paprikash (or Paprikás) is a traditional Hungarian stew characterized by the bold use of sweet Hungarian paprika. It’s often made with meat (usually chicken) and finished with sour cream to create a velvety sauce. Our version honors the spirit of the original but transforms it into a tasty vegan meal by using chickpeas and a plant-based sour cream alternative.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This simple list of ingredients keeps things easy, affordable, and flexible.
Base:
- 1 colher de sopa de azeite de oliva
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 3 dentes de alho, amassados
- 1½ tbsp Hungarian sweet paprika (not smoked)
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika (for depth)
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Pinch of chili flakes (optional, for heat)
Main Protein:
- 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
Sauce:
- 1½ cups vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- ½ cup dairy-free sour cream or plain vegan yogurt
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp cold water (optional, for thickening)
Add-Ins:
- 2 cups baby spinach or chopped kale
- Juice of ½ lemon, for brightness
- Salsinha fresca picada (para guarnecer)
How to Make Chickpea Paprikash
Step 1: Sauté the Base
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and red bell pepper. Cook for 6–8 minutes until the vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized.
Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Step 2: Spice It Up
Add Hungarian sweet paprika, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes (if using). Stir constantly for about 30 seconds to bloom the spices. Be careful not to burn the paprika, as it can turn bitter.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Add tomato paste and stir it into the spiced veggies. Then pour in the vegetable broth and stir until everything is well combined.
Add the chickpeas and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 10–12 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly and the flavors to meld.
Passo 4: Faça Cremoso
Turn down the heat to low. Stir in the dairy-free sour cream (or vegan yogurt) and the cornstarch slurry if you want a thicker sauce. Simmer gently for another 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you’re adding greens like spinach, toss them in now and cook until wilted.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Spoon the warm chickpea paprikash into shallow bowls. Top with fresh parsley or another garnish of your choice. Serve with any of the following:
- Buttery mashed potatoes
- Rice or quinoa
- Crusty sourdough or rustic bread
- Noodles or spaetzle
- Cauliflower mash for a low-carb option
Servindo Sugestões
- For One: This makes four servings, but it keeps well in the fridge for easy vegetarian meals throughout the week.
- Meal Prep Magic: Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently with a splash of water or broth.
- Adicionar Proteína: Stir in crumbled tofu or tempeh for an extra protein punch.
- Add Heat: Serve with a drizzle of chili oil or harissa for spice lovers.
Ingredient Swaps & Customizations
- Paprika Options: Try hot Hungarian paprika if you prefer more spice, or páprica defumada for extra depth.
- Legume Alternatives: White beans or lentils also work beautifully.
- No Vegan Yogurt? Use a splash of full-fat coconut milk, cashew cream, or omit entirely and finish with a drizzle of olive oil.
- Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini to amp up the veggie factor.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, just be sure your veggie broth and vegan sour cream are certified GF.
Nutritional Profile (Per Serving, approx.)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Proteína: 11g
- Fibra: 8g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbs: 35g
- Sodium: 540mg
This recipe is loaded with plant protein and fiber, making it filling without being heavy. It’s a wonderful dish for those looking to eat more whole foods, reduce meat consumption, or explore cheap vegetarian comfort food.
The Story Behind This Vegan Paprikash
Growing up, Paprikash was the kind of dish that filled the whole kitchen with a smoky-sweet aroma. It was the definition of comfort food. Transforming it into a vegan recipe without sacrificing that deep, nostalgic flavor was a fun and rewarding challenge.
Chickpeas provide the heartiness that traditional versions rely on from meat, while the combination of paprika, onion, and sour cream brings the soul. Whether you’re eating solo or sharing a table, this dish brings cozy vibes in every spoonful.
More Dishes You Might Like
If you love Chickpea Paprikash, try these easy vegetarian meals next:
- Lentil Mushroom Stroganoff
- Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili
- Creamy Vegan Tomato Gnocchi
- Curried Chickpea Stew
- Mushroom Bourguignon
Pensamentos Finais
Chickpea Paprikash is more than just a meatless meal—it’s a celebration of bold flavors, plant-based power, and budget-friendly brilliance. With just a few humble ingredients and a splash of paprika magic, this dish proves that veggie comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated to be unforgettable.
It’s a go-to recipe for those chilly evenings when you need something warming but still nourishing. And with how easy and affordable it is, it’s no wonder this dish is becoming a favorite among those seeking healthy vegetarian meals for one ou tasty vegan meals on the fly.
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