Easy Curried Chickpeas with Spinach Recipe

Discover a quick, flavorful Curried Chickpeas with Spinach recipe perfect for a healthy, comforting meal in under 30 minutes. This dish combines tender chickpeas simmered in a fragrant curry sauce with vibrant, fresh spinach, creating a delightful balance of creamy texture and a burst of earthy greens. It’s an ideal choice for anyone craving a nourishing, easy-to-make dinner that’s packed with protein, fiber, and mouthwatering spices.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious Boost: Chickpeas provide plant-based protein while spinach adds essential vitamins.
• Flavor-Packed: A blend of warm spices creates a rich, comforting curry without complicated steps.
• Versatile Meal: Works great as a main dish or a hearty side to complement other flavors.
• Vegetarian and Vegan Friendly: Naturally free of animal products and dairy for inclusive dining.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Curried Chickpeas with Spinach recipe is simple but essential, contributing to the dish’s vibrant flavor, hearty texture, or colorful presentation. Using pantry staples and fresh produce, you’ll have everything you need for a satisfying meal.

• Chickpeas (1 can, drained): Provides creamy texture and hearty protein to the dish.
• Fresh Spinach (4 cups): Adds bright color and a mild, earthy flavor.
• Onion (1 medium, diced): Forms the savory base for the curry sauce.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Imparts aromatic depth and warmth.
• Ginger (1 tablespoon, grated): Brings a subtle zing that lifts the flavors.
• Curry Powder (2 teaspoons): The heart of the dish’s spiced character.
• Tomatoes (1 can crushed or 2 fresh diced): Adds acidity and sweetness for balance.
• Vegetable Broth (1 cup): Helps create a saucy consistency without overpowering the dish.
• Coconut Milk (1/2 cup): Provides creaminess and subtle sweetness.
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Used for sautéing, adds richness and helps meld flavors.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.

Variations for Curried Chickpeas with Spinach

Feel free to customize this Curried Chickpeas with Spinach recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. It’s a wonderfully adaptable dish that can easily be tweaked with what you have on hand.

• Protein Boost: Add tofu cubes or paneer for an extra protein punch.
• Spice It Up: Include fresh chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
• Greens Swap: Substitute kale, Swiss chard, or collard greens instead of spinach.
• Tomato-Free: Use pumpkin puree or roasted bell peppers for a different base.
• Grain Add-In: Stir in cooked quinoa or brown rice to make it more filling.

How to Make Curried Chickpeas with Spinach

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Curry Base

Sprinkle the curry powder into the pan, stirring constantly to toast the spices gently and enhance their flavor. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth, mixing well to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Step 3: Add Chickpeas and Coconut Milk

Stir in the drained chickpeas, coating them thoroughly with the spiced tomato mixture. Pour in the coconut milk and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 4: Incorporate Spinach

Add the fresh spinach leaves to the pan, stirring until wilted and fully incorporated into the curry. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Final Simmer and Serve

Allow the curry to simmer for another few minutes until thickened to your liking. Remove from heat and serve hot alongside your favorite grains or bread.

Pro Tips for Making Curried Chickpeas with Spinach

• Toast Spices Gently: Always sauté curry powder briefly to unlock deep flavors without burning.
• Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh leaves wilt more nicely and retain better texture than frozen.
• Adjust Consistency: Add more broth if you prefer a soupier curry or simmer longer for a thicker sauce.
• Balance Flavors: Taste and tweak seasoning—some may love it spicier or more savory.
• Drain Chickpeas Well: Minimizes excess water, keeping the curry from becoming too runny.

How to Serve Curried Chickpeas with Spinach

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro leaves sprinkled on top add a pop of herbaceous brightness, while a dollop of plain yogurt or coconut yogurt offers creaminess and a cool contrast to the warm spices.

Side Dishes

This curry pairs wonderfully with steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread, both of which help soak up the rich sauce and complete the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in a colorful bowl with a wedge of lime for a zesty finish or layer over a bed of roasted vegetables for an extra dimension of flavor and texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Curried Chickpeas with Spinach in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. This makes a great grab-and-go meal throughout the week.

Freezing

This curry freezes exceptionally well—store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Reheating

Reheat slowly over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or drying out, and add a splash of water or broth if the curry has thickened excessively in the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, but be sure to soak and cook dried chickpeas thoroughly before using them in this recipe, as canned chickpeas save time and have a reliable texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! This Curried Chickpeas with Spinach recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it accessible for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I make this recipe spicier?

Definitely. Adding chopped fresh chili, cayenne pepper, or red chili flakes will increase the heat while preserving the dish’s flavor balance.

What can I substitute for coconut milk?

You can use cashew cream, regular cream, or a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk, although the curry will have a slightly different richness.

How long does this curry keep in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, it will stay fresh for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prepping.

Final Thoughts

This Curried Chickpeas with Spinach recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a wholesome, vibrant meal that’s both easy and satisfying. Its rich flavors and nourishing ingredients make it a go-to comfort dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

Related Posts

• Why Brown Butter Sweet Potato Gnocchi Steals the Show
• Craving Comfort? The Best Instant Pot Chili
• Crave-Worthy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Print