5 Simple Steps to Make Vegan Chickpea and Spinach Stew

Description

Chickpea and Spinach Stew is a comforting, hearty, and nutritious vegan dish packed with protein-rich chickpeas, vibrant spinach, and a delicious medley of spices. This easy-to-make stew is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping, offering a warm and satisfying meal that’s full of flavor and rich in essential nutrients. The combination of tender chickpeas and fresh spinach in a tomato-based broth makes for a wholesome, plant-based stew that’s naturally gluten-free and dairy-free. Serve with rice, quinoa, or bread for a complete meal!

Step-by-Step Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Stew:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1-inch piece of ginger (grated)
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes)
• 4 cups fresh spinach (packed)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 cup vegetable broth (or water)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins:

• 1/2 cup coconut milk (for creaminess)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (for freshness)

For Garnish:

• Fresh cilantro or parsley (chopped)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
• Cooked rice or bread for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base:
   • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes, or until softened.
   • Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add the Spices:
   • Stir in the cumin, coriander, turmeric, smoked paprika, and cinnamon. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to become fragrant and well combined.
3. Add the Tomatoes and Broth:
   • Add the diced tomatoes (with juices) and vegetable broth to the pot, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Add the Chickpeas and Spinach:
   • Add the chickpeas and spinach to the pot, stirring until the spinach wilts down. Simmer the stew for 10-12 minutes, or until the stew thickens and the chickpeas are tender.
5. Optional Add-ins:
   • For a creamy texture, stir in the coconut milk. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of freshness.
6. Season and Serve:
   • Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley, and top with red pepper flakes if desired.
   • Serve the chickpea and spinach stew with cooked rice, quinoa, or crusty bread for a complete, satisfying meal.