Grandmother's North Macedonian Stewed Chickpeas Skillet

Assemble the ingredients: chickpeas, black pepper, bay leaf, carrot, salt, parsley, onion.

Warm oil in a heavy pot. Add the chickpeas and cook until stewed.

Stir in the aromatics and spices — the backbone of North Macedonian flavors.

Add the remaining ingredients and cook gently, stirring occasionally, until tender.

Taste and adjust seasoning; the flavor should deepen as it cooks.

Plate and serve with traditional North Macedonian accompaniments such as bread, rice, or fresh herbs.