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