92: Moroccan Nomad Stew at Chakra 4

Hungry yet? We're working up our appetites for our huge Best of Phoenix issue, out September 30, with daily servings of Chow Bella's 100 Favorite Dishes from across the Valley -- in no particular order Leave your suggestions for upcoming favorites in the comments section. Visit our sister blog, Jackalope...

By Michele Laudig

June 3, 2010

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Hungry yet?

We're working up our appetites for our huge Best of Phoenix issue, out September 30, with daily servings of Chow Bella's 100 Favorite Dishes from across the Valley -- in no particular order

Leave your suggestions for upcoming favorites in the comments section.

Visit our sister blog, Jackalope Ranch, for a companion series on 100 Creatives who make Phoenix a little more interesting for all of us. We'll be posting the next 91 picks daily through the rest of the summer.

Number 92: Moroccan Nomad Stew at Chakra 4 Herb & Tea House

It's a pleasure just to walk into this tiny spot tucked away in the Town & Country plaza. Half herb shop, and half cafe, Chakra 4 is all about healthful living and vegan cuisine packed with herbs and fresh vegetables.

The entire place smells delicious, considering the jars of dried herbs that line the walls, but the Moroccan Nomad Stew has a particularly wonderful aroma -- exotic spices that perk up your senses before you even taste it. A melange of tender vegetables simmered in gently seasoned vegan gravy, it's got a satisfying texture thanks to the addition of chickpeas, raisins, and cashews. Underneath, there's a fluffy bed of steaming quinoa to soak up the flavors.

Few dishes in the Valley are quite this filling and flavorful while still being good-for-you and pretty much guilt-free.

The Favorite Dishes, so far: 93: Peking Duck at Gourmet House of Hong Kong 94: Mozzarella Sandwich at Pane Bianco 95: Egg White Omelette at Fez 96: Machaca From Los Dos Molinos 97: Shish Taook from Baiz Market 98: Pasties From Cornish Pasty Co. 99: Clams in Black Bean Sauce From Asian Cafe Express 100: Bruschetta From Postino

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