Creamy Chickpea, Sweet Potato & Spinach Stew (One-Pan)
Description
This Creamy Chickpea, Sweet Potato & Spinach Stew is a comforting, nutrient-packed one-pan meal that’s both hearty and wholesome. The natural sweetness of tender sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with protein-rich chickpeas and fresh spinach, all simmered in a creamy, flavorful broth. Infused with garlic, spices, and a touch of richness, this stew delivers a satisfying balance of texture and taste. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you want a cozy, plant-based dish that feels both filling and nourishing.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 can (400 g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Creamy Base:
- 1 cup coconut milk (or heavy cream for non-vegan option)
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
Seasoning & Spices:
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp turmeric (optional)
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
Optional Add-ins & Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro
- Red chili flakes for heat
- Lemon juice for brightness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pan or pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add sweet potatoes: Add the cubed sweet potatoes to the pan and stir to coat with the aromatics.
- Season: Sprinkle in paprika, cumin, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to evenly coat the vegetables.
- Add liquids: Pour in vegetable broth and stir in tomato paste. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender.
- Add chickpeas & cream: Stir in chickpeas and coconut milk. Simmer for another 5–7 minutes until the stew thickens slightly.
- Add spinach: Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
- Serve: Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve warm.
Tips, Notes & Q&A
- Cut sweet potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- For thicker stew, mash a few sweet potato pieces into the broth.
- Coconut milk adds richness, but you can use cream or even yogurt for variation.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, it tastes even better the next day as flavors develop.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes, store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Absolutely—zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots work well.
Q: Is this recipe vegan?
A: Yes, if using coconut milk and vegetable broth.
Servings & Nutrition (Approx.)
- Servings: 4–5
- Calories: ~320 kcal per serving
- Protein: 10 g
- Fat: 14 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 8 g
