Easy Spiced Chickpea & Spinach Stew That Warms Your Soul

Victoria

The Keeper of Heartfelt Homemade Traditions

There’s something truly comforting about simmering a pot of Spiced Chickpea & Spinach Stew on a cool evening—the fragrant blend of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon fills the kitchen and invites you to slow down. One afternoon, craving a wholesome meal that packed bold flavors without hours of prep, I tossed together pantry staples and fresh greens, and this stew was born. It’s hearty yet light, richly spiced but never overwhelming, and perfect for anyone tired of the usual fast-food options. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a hungry crowd, this recipe is your go-to for an easy, nourishing dinner that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Why choose Spiced Chickpea & Spinach Stew?

Heartwarming Comfort: This stew offers a cozy, soul-soothing meal perfect for chilly days. Bold, Balanced Flavors: A vibrant blend of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon creates depth without overpowering your palate. Simple and Quick: Made with pantry staples and fresh greens, it’s easy enough for any home cook. Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein-rich chickpeas and iron-loaded spinach, it fuels your body while delighting your taste buds. Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it solo or alongside your favorite sides for a satisfying dinner everyone will love.

Spiced Chickpea & Spinach Stew Ingredients

For the Stew Base

Canned chickpeas – A pantry staple that provides hearty protein and a creamy texture.
Fresh spinach – Adds vibrant color and a boost of iron and vitamins to the stew.
Olive oil – Use for sautéing to bring out the spices’ aromas without overwhelming them.
Yellow onion – Offers a natural sweetness that balances the spices beautifully.
Garlic cloves – Essential for depth and a hint of warmth in every bite.

Spices & Seasonings

Ground cumin – Delivers earthy warmth that forms the backbone of this stew’s flavor.
Ground coriander – Adds a subtle citrusy note, brightening the rich base.
Ground cinnamon – Just a pinch to introduce a cozy sweetness and complexity.
Smoked paprika – Enhances the stew with a gentle smoky layer that complements the chickpeas.
Salt and black pepper – To taste, for rounding out and balancing the flavors perfectly.

For Liquid & Finish

Vegetable broth – Keeps the stew light and flavorful without heaviness.
Lemon juice – Stir in at the end to brighten the entire dish and cut through the richness.

This Spiced Chickpea & Spinach Stew recipe shines with simple ingredients that combine into something truly soul-warming.

How to Make Spiced Chickpea & Spinach Stew

Prep Aromatics: Peel and finely chop one yellow onion and mince two garlic cloves, ensuring uniform pieces for an even, golden sauté.
Sauté Aromatics: Heat two tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, then cook onion and garlic for 5 minutes until soft and fragrant.
Toast Spices: Stir in one teaspoon each of cumin and coriander, half teaspoon smoked paprika, and a pinch of cinnamon. Cook 1 minute until aromatic.
Simmer Stew: Add two drained cans of chickpeas and 2 cups vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer 15 minutes.
Add Spinach: Gradually stir in fresh spinach handfuls, cooking until just wilted and vibrantly green, about 2 minutes for perfect texture.
Finish and Serve: Remove from heat, squeeze in fresh lemon juice, season with salt and pepper to taste, then ladle into bowls.

Optional: Sprinkle with chopped cilantro or serve with warm flatbread.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Spiced Chickpea & Spinach Stew?

A cozy stew calls for a thoughtfully crafted meal that brings warmth and balance to your table.

Warm Flatbread: Perfect for scooping up the hearty stew, warm flatbread adds a delightful chewy texture that complements the flavors beautifully.
Creamy Yogurt: A dollop of tangy yogurt provides a cooling contrast to the spiced richness, enhancing each bite with luscious creaminess.
Quinoa Salad: A light and nutty quinoa salad adds freshness and crunch, paired with cucumber and tomatoes for a refreshing palate cleanser.
Roasted Veggies: Nutty, caramelized roasted vegetables enrich the meal’s vibe and provide a textured contrast. Roasted carrots and bell peppers could work wonders alongside.
Couscous: Fluffy couscous acts as the perfect absorbent base, soaking up the delicious stew while adding a delightful bite to every spoonful.
Herbal Tea: A cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, offers a calming end to a savory meal, rounding out your dining experience.

Indulge in these delightful pairings to elevate your Spiced Chickpea & Spinach Stew experience, making it a memorable feast.

Spiced Chickpea & Spinach Stew Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this stew for your unique taste preferences!

Add Greens: Mix in kale, Swiss chard, or any greens you have on hand for added nutrients and color.
Coconut Cream: Swirl in coconut cream for a rich, tropical twist that enhances the stew’s creaminess beautifully.
Heat It Up: Incorporate chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne for a spicy kick that awakens the palate.
Protein Boost: Stir in diced chicken or turkey for those who want extra protein and a heartier meal.
Zest of Flavor: Add freshly grated ginger or lemon zest during cooking for an invigorating brightness and depth.
Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika and bacon bits for an extra smoky richness that complements the spices well.
Hearthy Grains: Serve over quinoa or brown rice to add a satisfying texture and make it even more filling.
Chickpea Variations: Opt for black beans or lentils instead of chickpeas for a delightful twist on the classic flavors.

Each of these variations adds its own flair, allowing you to savor this comforting stew your way!

How to Store and Freeze Spiced Chickpea & Spinach Stew

Fridge: Store leftover stew in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stew in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave space at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth if necessary to revive the texture of your spiced chickpea & spinach stew.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the stew out for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage. If left out longer, it’s best to dispose of it for safety.

Make Ahead Options

These Spiced Chickpea & Spinach Stew preparations will save you precious time on busy weeknights! You can chop the onion and mince the garlic up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can also measure out the spices and store them together for ease. When you’re ready to cook, simply sauté the prepared aromatics, add the chickpeas, vegetable broth, and simmer as directed. For best quality, ensure the spinach is added just before serving to preserve its vibrant color and tenderness. This approach allows you to enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal with minimal effort at the end of a hectic day!

Expert Tips for Spiced Chickpea & Spinach Stew

Perfectly Toast Spices: Toast your cumin, coriander, and paprika over medium heat just until fragrant to unlock full flavor without burning them.
Drain Chickpeas Well: Rinsing and draining canned chickpeas prevents the stew from becoming too thick or mushy, maintaining ideal texture.
Add Spinach Gradually: Stir spinach in handfuls to avoid overcrowding the pot, ensuring even wilting and vibrant color.
Balance Flavors Brightly: Lemon juice at the end lifts the stew’s richness—don’t skip it to keep the flavors fresh and harmonious.
Adjust Seasoning Mindfully: Taste before serving and add salt or pepper little by little to avoid over-seasoning your spiced chickpea & spinach stew.

Spiced Chickpea & Spinach Stew Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my canned chickpeas are good to use?
Look for cans without dents or bulges and check the expiration date. If the chickpeas have dark spots all over or a sour smell once opened, it’s best to discard them.

Can I store leftover Spiced Chickpea & Spinach Stew in the fridge?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container once cooled, and it will keep fresh for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently to preserve the flavors and texture.

Is it possible to freeze this stew for later?
Very! Freeze the stew in freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on low heat with a splash of broth.

What if my stew tastes bland or too spicy?
No worries—taste as you cook! If it’s bland, gradually add salt and a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten it up. If too spicy, stir in a bit of yogurt or coconut milk to mellow the heat and balance flavors.

Is Spiced Chickpea & Spinach Stew safe for pets or people with allergies?
This stew is plant-based and free from common allergens like nuts and dairy, making it generally safe for most people. However, it does contain spices like cinnamon and paprika, which might upset sensitive stomachs or pets, so keep it away from animals and consult with your healthcare provider if you have specific allergy concerns.