Chickpea and Spinach Stew

This cozy chickpea and spinach stew is my go to when I need something hearty fast and nourishing The tomato spiced broth wraps everything together in just thirty minutes and all you need is some crusty bread for a full meal

The first time I made this was on a chilly weeknight and my house instantly filled with the warm spicy scent of paprika Now it is the meal I turn to whenever I need a boost

Ingredients

• Canned chickpeas: for quick easy protein and a sturdy stew base Look for cans with just chickpeas water and salt for the cleanest flavor
• Fresh spinach: makes the stew feel vibrant and adds tenderness Choose bright green spinach leaves that are not wilted
• Diced tomatoes: for a sweet tangy depth Opt for fire roasted if available for extra smokiness
• Yellow onion: to build flavor from the start Grab ones with tight skin for best freshness
• Garlic: adds pungency and warmth Choose firm unblemished cloves
• Smoked paprika: brightens the whole dish with a gentle heat Use Spanish smoked paprika for the most authentic flavor
• Ground cumin: for earthiness and those classic stew undertones Buy whole cumin seeds and grind fresh for even more aroma
• Salt and black pepper: bring everything together Use flaky sea salt for finishing if you have it

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

Start by heating a generous splash of olive oil in a deep pot over medium low Add diced onion and a pinch of salt Stir frequently until the onion softens and turns golden This takes about eight minutes The longer it cooks without burning the more flavorful your base will be Next add minced garlic Stir for one minute until fragrant

Build the Body:

Pour in the can of diced tomatoes with all the juices Then tip in the drained chickpeas Stir well Sprinkle in the smoked paprika and cumin Keep the heat on medium Make sure everything gets evenly coated so the spices bloom and fill the kitchen with a smoky aroma

Simmer and Meld Flavors:

Let everything bubble gently for fifteen minutes uncovered Stir a few times as the liquid reduces and thickens slightly This melds the flavors together and slightly softens the chickpeas for a creamy bite

Fold In Spinach:

Add all the spinach at once and stir quickly Watch those leaves wilt down in about two minutes The stew is ready when the spinach is tender and bright green Taste and adjust salt and pepper to your liking

Finish and Serve:

Ladle the stew into bowls while hot It is best enjoyed fresh with some crusty bread for soaking up the spiced tomato broth Add a dollop of plain yogurt if you like to cool down the heat and add creaminess

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I always reach for my favorite smoked paprika here It turns even simple vegetables into something special The night my youngest asked for seconds I knew it had earned a place in our family’s regulars

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days Reheat gently over low heat or in the microwave You can also freeze portions for up to three months Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have chickpeas try white beans or small lentils Swiss chard or kale works well instead of spinach Just add heartier greens a little earlier so they have time to soften No smoked paprika Substitute with regular paprika and a pinch of chili powder for some heat

Serving Suggestions

Pile the stew over cooked rice or quinoa for even more staying power Swirl in plain yogurt or a drizzle of good olive oil at the end Sometimes I top with toasted pumpkin seeds for crunch and a squeeze of lemon for brightness

A Little Background

Dishes like this are beloved across the Mediterranean and Middle East where legumes and greens are staples The combination of warming spices with tomatoes and chickpeas is classic and deeply satisfying You will find similar stews in Spain Morocco and Turkey each with their own twist

Seasonal Adaptations

Fresh spring spinach makes the stew silkier and especially vibrant Sub in fall kale or collard greens for a heartier winter variation Toss in roasted red peppers or zucchini in late summer for more color and flavor

Success Stories

Friends have texted me photos after making this saying even their picky eaters cleared their bowls It is also a favorite to make ahead for vegetarian dinner guests since it suits so many diets

Freezer Meal Conversion

Let the stew cool completely then ladle into freezer safe containers leaving a little space for expansion Freeze for up to three months Good for grab and go lunches or unexpected busy weeks

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This chickpea and spinach stew is a weeknight savior full of flavor and goodness Enjoy it right away or make ahead and savor the leftovers whenever you need a quick comforting meal

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, substitute frozen spinach for fresh. Thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding.

→ What bread pairs well with this stew?

Crusty sourdough, ciabatta, or pita are great choices for soaking up the flavorful broth.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of chili flakes or a chopped fresh chili along with the other spices for a gentle kick.

→ Is it suitable for meal prepping?

Absolutely! This stew keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days and flavors improve over time.

→ Can I add proteins like chicken?

Yes, add cooked shredded chicken or sausage for extra protein, adjusting seasoning to taste.