Vegan Chickpea and Spinach Stew

This Vegan Chickpea and Spinach Stew is one of my go-to recipes for a quick, hearty, and healthy meal. It’s rich in flavor, packed with nutrients, and comes together in just about 30 minutes. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week, this stew hits all the marks. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

1. Chickpeas (2 cans, drained and rinsed)
   Protein-packed chickpeas are the base of this stew. Use canned chickpeas for convenience or cook your own for extra flavor.
2. Fresh Spinach (4 cups, loosely packed)
   Spinach adds a vibrant green color and a boost of vitamins. Feel free to substitute with kale if you prefer.
3. Coconut Milk (1 can, full-fat)
   This creates a creamy texture and adds a subtle sweetness to balance the spices.
4. Crushed Tomatoes (1 can, 14 ounces)
   Tomatoes provide a tangy, savory base for the stew. Opt for fire-roasted for a deeper flavor.
5. Onion (1 medium, diced)
   A diced onion gives the stew a sweet, caramelized base.
6. Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
   Garlic brings warmth and depth to the dish. Don’t skimp on this aromatic!
7. Vegetable Broth (1 cup)
   This ensures the stew has a rich, saucy consistency. Use low-sodium broth to control the salt level.
8. Ground Cumin (1 teaspoon)
   Cumin provides a warm, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with chickpeas and spinach.
9. Turmeric (1 teaspoon)
   This bright spice not only adds flavor but also gives the stew a beautiful golden hue.
10. Paprika (½ teaspoon)
    A dash of paprika adds a smoky, mildly spicy kick.
11. Salt and Pepper (to taste)
    Seasoning enhances all the other flavors. Adjust to your preference.
12. Olive Oil (1 tablespoon)
    This is for sautéing the onion and garlic. You can also use coconut oil for a sweeter flavor.

How to Make Vegan Chickpea and Spinach Stew

Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Spices Stir in the cumin, turmeric, and paprika. Let the spices toast for 30 seconds to enhance their flavor.

Step 3: Build the Base Add the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Add the Chickpeas Stir in the chickpeas and let them cook in the sauce for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 5: Stir in the Coconut Milk Pour in the coconut milk and stir until the stew is creamy and well-blended. Adjust the consistency with a bit more broth if needed.

Step 6: Add the Spinach Fold in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy Ladle the stew into bowls and serve warm with crusty bread or rice.

Equipment Needed

• A large pot or Dutch oven for cooking the stew.
• A wooden spoon for stirring.
• A sharp knife and cutting board for prepping ingredients.
• Measuring spoons and cups for precise measurements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned? Yes, but you’ll need to soak and cook them first. This can add a few hours to the prep time, but the flavor is worth it.

What can I substitute for spinach? Kale, Swiss chard, or even collard greens work well as substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time based on the green you use.

Is this stew freezer-friendly? Absolutely! Let the stew cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months.

Can I make this dish spicier? Yes, add a pinch of chili flakes or a diced chili pepper when sautéing the onion and garlic.

What can I serve with this stew? Serve it with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Can I add other vegetables to the stew? Definitely! Carrots, sweet potatoes, or bell peppers make great additions. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

How do I make this stew thicker? If you prefer a thicker consistency, mash some of the chickpeas with a fork before adding the spinach.

Conclusion

I hope this Vegan Chickpea and Spinach Stew warms your heart and your table! It’s wholesome, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends on Facebook or save it on Pinterest for your next meal inspiration. Happy cooking! 🥄✨