CREAMY CHICKPEA AND SPINACH CURRY
This creamy chickpea and spinach curry is a hearty, nutritious and flavourful dish that comes together quickly with simple ingredients. The combination of tender chickpeas, fresh spinach, onion, garlic, salt, pepper and aromatic spices simmered in rich coconut milk creates a comforting yet healthy meal. This dish is packed with protein, fibre and essential nutrients, making it an excellent option for a balanced diet. The mild warmth of curry powder enhances the depth of flavours without overpowering the natural taste of the ingredients. This curry is a delicious and satisfying option for any mealtime, whether served with rice, flatbread or enjoyed on its own. Perfect for busy days, it requires minimal preparation and cooking time while delivering maximum flavour. It’s also highly customisable, allowing you to adjust spices and add ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Lunch, Dinner, Entrée, Side
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Indian
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Sauté, Simmer, One-Pot Wonders, Quick & Easy
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Fall, Winter, Family Dinner, Potluck, Ramadan, Weeknight Meal
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegan, Vegetarian, Healthy, High Fibre, Low Cholesterol, Low Fat, Quick & Easy, Wheat/Gluten-Free
DISH TYPE
Soup / Stew
INGREDIENTS
There are the following ingredients for creamy chickpea and spinach curry:
- 50g canned chickpeas, drained
- 50g fresh spinach
- 1/4 onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp curry powder
- 100ml coconut milk
- 1 tsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 170 kcal
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fibre: 4g
- Sugars: 2g
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Sodium: 120mg
PREPARATION
- Heat The Oil: In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté The Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring frequently until softened and fragrant.
- Add The Spices: Sprinkle the curry powder over the onions and garlic, stirring for another 30 seconds to release its flavour.
- Incorporate The Chickpeas: Add the drained chickpeas and stir well to coat them with the spices.
- Pour In The Coconut Milk: Slowly add the coconut milk, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add The Spinach: Toss in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted for about 2-3 minutes.
- Season The Curry: Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Serve And Enjoy: Transfer to a serving bowl and enjoy warm, either on its own or with rice or bread.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
10 minutes
TIPS
- Drain Chickpeas Well: Removing excess liquid prevents the curry from becoming too watery.
- Sauté The Spices: Cooking the curry powder briefly with onions and garlic enhances its depth of flavour.
- Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach works best, but frozen spinach can also be used to thaw and drain before adding.
- Adjust Consistency: If the curry is too thick, add a splash of water or vegetable broth to loosen it up.
- Enhance Flavour: A squeeze of lemon or lime just before serving brightens the dish.
- Pairing Options: Serve with basmati rice, naan or quinoa for a complete meal.
VARIATIONS
- Protein Boost: Add tofu or lentils for extra protein.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red chilli flakes or a chopped green chilli for more heat.
- Creamier Texture: Blend a portion of the curry for a thicker, creamier consistency.
- Nutty Twist: Stir in a spoonful of almond or cashew butter for added richness.
- Extra Vegetables: Add diced tomatoes, bell peppers or carrots for more colour and nutrients.
- Herbal Infusion: Garnish with fresh coriander or mint for extra freshness.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before eating.
- Meal Prep Tip: If making it in advance, store the chickpea mixture separately from the coconut milk and spinach, then combine it when ready to cook.