A hearty and flavorful Chickpea and Spinach Stew that is perfect for a cozy meal.
Chickpea and spinach stew is one of those dishes that feels as good as it tastes. It’s cozy, nourishing, and packed with flavor, proof that healthy meals can still be deeply satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or looking to make something warm and wholesome, this stew is a reliable go-to.
At the heart of this dish are two humble ingredients: chickpeas and spinach. Chickpeas bring a hearty texture and a mild, nutty flavor that soaks up spices beautifully. They also pack in plenty of plant-based protein and fiber, making this stew filling without feeling heavy. Spinach adds a pop of color and freshness, wilting perfectly into the mix and balancing the richness of the stew.
The flavor base usually starts with onions, garlic, and a good drizzle of olive oil—simple, classic, and deeply aromatic. Add in some diced tomatoes or a spoonful of tomato paste for depth, then layer in spices like cumin, paprika, turmeric, or even a hint of cinnamon for warmth. The result is a broth that’s both comforting and complex, without being overly fussy.
This stew is versatile, too. You can simmer it slowly for deeper flavor or make a quick version in under 30 minutes. Want to bulk it up even more? Add potatoes, carrots, or cooked grains like quinoa or farro. It also pairs beautifully with warm bread or rice for soaking up all that delicious broth.
Chickpea and spinach stew is a great example of how plant-based cooking doesn’t have to be bland or boring. It’s satisfying, deeply flavorful, and full of ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Plus, it gets even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
Ingredients
- 2 cups chickpeas cooked or canned, drained and rinsed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp cumin ground
- 1 tsp paprika smoked, or regular
- 4 cups spinach fresh, chopped
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup Tomatoes diced, canned or fresh
- 1 tsp salt or to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper or to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and translucent.
- Stir in cumin and paprika, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the chickpeas, spinach, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Nutrition
It was good, but I think it needs meat. Chickpeas just don’t fill me up enough.
You could add some sausage or chicken if you want it heartier! Just a thought.
Uhm… where’s the meat? Not a real meal without it if you ask me. Who eats stew without protein?
Too much spinach. 4 cups? That’s a lot for anyone. I’d go with 2 cups next time.
Absolutely delicious! I’ve made this stew twice now, and it’s a hit with my family. Thanks for sharing!
I’m glad to hear that! This stew is so easy and tasty!
I tried this recipe but it was a bit bland. I added some chili flakes and it turned out better.
Not enough ingredients for my taste. Would be better with carrots and celery. Just sayin’.
This was okay, but I expected more flavor. Maybe I used too little seasoning?
I made this recipe and it turned out kinda bland. I think it needs more spices.
I found this a little bland. Maybe I should have added more spices or something? 🤔
Not my fav, but others liked it. I guess it’s healthy??
Spinach? In a stew? Seems kinda weird, but I guess it works. 🤷♀️
Weird or not, spinach adds a nice texture! Give it a shot! 🍲
My wife loved it and she’s picky! I just added some chili flakes for heat! 😋
I found it a bit bland. Needed more spices or maybe hot sauce? It just didn’t wow me like I hoped.
I totally get what you mean! Adding some chili flakes or a dash of sriracha could really bring it to life. Maybe next time! 😊
Chickpeas r not my thing, but I tried it and it was okay. Not my fav tho.
I can’t cook but made this today. I was shocked at how it turned out — delicious! 🥳
Really? You made this?! I always thought it was complicated. Maybe I should give it a try too.
Wow! That’s amazing! Cooking can be so much fun and your stew sounds really good! 🥘
Easy to make and good for meal prep! I added some carrots too. Yum!
Not a fan. It looked nice, but too mushy for my taste. I prefer my chickpeas crispy!
Chickpeas give you gas. I don’t know how else to say it! 😂
This stew is so tasty! I added some chili flakes for a kick! Yum! 😋
This is literally just beans and greens. Not sure why everyone loves it so much, but to each their own.
Just another veggie stew. Where’s the meat? LOL
I followed the recipe but it turned out way too bland. Maybe more spices next time?
I think you should definitely add some chili flakes or maybe a dash of hot sauce! That always helps with flavor.
Bland? I didn’t have that problem. Maybe you didn’t use enough salt or spices? Just follow the steps!
Yum! It’s so easy to make and very filling. Perfect for meal prep for the week. 👍
Totally agree! This stew is super delicious and a great way to use up veggies. Can’t believe how quick it is to make! 😋
This stew is so tasty! I loved it 😍. First time making it and it turned out perfect. Thanks for sharing!
This stew is so easy to make, and it’s super tasty! I love how healthy it is too. 😋
Chickpeas? Eww. I’m not a fan of beans in general. But this stew looks nice for someone who likes it.
No beans? How can you say that? This stew is so delicious! You might just need to give it a go!
I get that chickpeas aren’t for everyone, but this stew is seriously good! You might be surprised if you try it.
I don’t know, it’s too bland for my taste. Needs more spice or something. I added hot sauce and it helped.
I think it’s all about adjusting to your taste! Maybe try adding other spices like cayenne or turmeric next time. 😊
Not enough tomatoes! I like more flavors. 😠
I actually think the balance is nice! But yeah, you could toss in a few more tomatoes if you want! 😅
Quick and easy recipe! Perfect for a weeknight meal. Will make again!
Quick? Well, it takes 25 minutes to simmer. That’s not exactly quick for me. There’s gotta be a faster way!
This sounds delicious! I love how quick it is! Gonna try it this week! 😀
Very easy and quick to make! Perfect for weeknight dinners. Will make again for sure.
Yummy! Also super easy. I didn’t have broth so I used water and it was still tasty! 😋
Water instead of broth? That’s kinda weird. How would it taste good like that? 🤔
Glad you found it easy! I think broth adds more flavor though. Next time maybe try it? 😊
Made this for dinner and my kids actually ate it! Miracle worker! 🌟
This stew was amazing! So comforting and the spices were spot on. Will definitely make again.
I’m so glad you loved it! The spices really do make a difference. What other recipes do you recommend?
Not bad, but I think there’s too much garlic! I was expecting more balance.
I totally disagree, the garlic makes it taste amazing! Just the right kick for me.
This stew is so good! I’ve made it twice this week, can’t get enough of that flavor! 🤤
Honestly, who puts chickpeas in stew? This just sounds wrong… but okay, I tried it and it’s not terrible.
Great recipe, but I didn’t have spinach, so I used kale instead! 😊
Not my cup of tea. Chickpeas just taste weird to me. 2/5.
WOW!!! This is like, the best recipe I ever made! So good, so flavorful!❤️
Chickpeas are just beans, so how healthy could this be? Can’t really take this serious. sorry
Beans or not, this stew has solid flavor. You might not take it seriously, but it’s still delicious!
Chickpeas are actually super nutritious! They’re packed with protein and fiber. Don’t knock it until you try it!
This stew is so hearty and delicious! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Will definitely make again!
I was skeptical about chickpeas but wow, this recipe changed my mind! Never thought spinach could taste this good?!
Easy and quick! I love how healthy it is. My whole family enjoyed it!