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Spinach and Chickpea Curry

This hearty spinach and chickpea curry is made by simmering canned chickpeas and fresh spinach in a fragrant coconut milk sauce infused with cumin and turmeric. The dish develops a glossy, slightly thickened appearance with tender chickpeas and wilted greens, creating a comforting and vibrant vegetarian meal. It’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners that feel warm and nourishing.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons oil neutral vegetable oil or ghee
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 inch ginger grated
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 can (400g) chickpeas rinsed and drained
  • 400 ml coconut milk full-fat
  • 2 cups fresh spinach roughly chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Equipment

  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring spoons
  • Knife

Method
 

  1. Heat the oil in your large skillet over medium heat until shimmering, and add the diced onion. Cook for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent and begins to brown slightly, filling your kitchen with a warm aroma.
  2. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic. You’ll notice the mixture bubbling gently and releasing a savory aroma.
  3. Stir in the turmeric and cumin, cooking for 30 seconds to toast the spices and deepen their aroma. Listen for a slight crackle, which signals they’re releasing their essential oils.
  4. Pour in the rinsed chickpeas along with the coconut milk, stirring well to combine all the flavors and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to bubble softly.
  5. Add the chopped fresh spinach to the skillet. Cover and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the spinach wilts completely and the sauce thickens slightly, turning glossy and rich-looking.
  6. Uncover the skillet and stir the curry. Let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes if needed, until the sauce reduces to a glossy, slightly thickened consistency. Adjust the seasoning with salt if desired.
  7. Remove the skillet from heat and squeeze in the lemon juice. Stir well and let the flavors meld for about 2 minutes. The dish should smell fragrant with a bright citrus note.
  8. Serve your vibrant curry hot over rice or with crusty bread. Garnish with fresh herbs if you like, and enjoy the comforting, colorful flavors of this simple dish.