Creamy Chickpea, Sweet Potato & Spinach Stew One-Pan

Creamy Chickpea, Sweet Potato & Spinach Stew (One-Pan)

Description

Creamy Chickpea, Sweet Potato & Spinach Stew is a nourishing, one-pan meal that combines hearty plant-based ingredients with rich, comforting flavors. Tender sweet potatoes, protein-packed chickpeas, and fresh spinach simmer in a creamy, spiced broth that is both satisfying and wholesome. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a balance of nutrition, flavor, and simplicity while being naturally vegetarian and easy to customize.

Ingredients

For the Stew Base:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion (chopped)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tsp grated ginger

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 medium sweet potatoes (peeled and cubed)
  • 1 can (400g) chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
  • 2 cups fresh spinach

For the Creamy Sauce:

  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh cilantro
  • Chili flakes
  • Lemon wedges

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.
  2. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add tomato paste and spices (paprika, turmeric, cumin), stirring well to toast the spices and deepen flavor.
  4. Add cubed sweet potatoes and mix to coat them in the spice mixture.
  5. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes until the sweet potatoes begin to soften.
  6. Add chickpeas and coconut milk, stirring to combine everything evenly.
  7. Simmer uncovered for another 8–10 minutes until the sweet potatoes are fully tender and the stew thickens slightly.
  8. Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  10. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs, chili flakes, or a squeeze of lemon juice.

Tips, Notes, and Q&A

  • Cut sweet potatoes into even pieces to ensure they cook uniformly.
  • For a thicker stew, mash a few sweet potato chunks directly in the pan.
  • You can substitute coconut milk with cream or a dairy-free alternative.
  • Add extra vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for more variety.
  • Q: Can I store leftovers?
    Yes, refrigerate for up to 3 days and reheat gently.
  • Q: Is this freezer-friendly?
    Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 1 month.
  • Q: Can I make it spicier?
    Add chili powder or fresh green chilies to taste.

Servings & Nutrition

  • Servings: 3–4
  • Calories: approximately 300–350 per serving
  • Protein: 8–10g
  • Fat: 14–18g
  • Carbohydrates: 35–40g

Leave a Comment