Description
Creamy Chickpea & Spinach Curry
A vegan, protein-packed curry with a perfect balance of spices and coconut creaminess. Serve with rice for a nutritious, easy meal!
Ingredients:
1.5 cups white rice
1 diced onion
2 minced garlic cloves
1 Tbsp grated ginger
2 Tbsp olive oil
1 Tbsp curry powder
1 tsp cumin
3/4 tsp salt
1 diced tomato
1 lb frozen spinach
1 (15 oz) can chickpeas
1/2 cup water
1 (13 oz) can coconut milk
Instructions:
Cook rice, fluff, and set aside.
Sauté onion, garlic, ginger, and spices.
Add tomato, cook, and simmer.
Add spinach, chickpeas, and water.
Stir in coconut milk and simmer.
#VeganChanaSaag
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Begin by cooking 1.5 cups of white rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, fluff with a fork, cover, and set aside to stay warm.
2. In a large pot or deep skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, 1 tablespoon of curry powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and 3/4 teaspoon of salt to the pot. Stir constantly for about 1 minute until the spices are fragrant.
4. Add the diced tomato to the pot. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomato begins to break down and soften.
5. Add the entire 1 lb bag of frozen spinach (no need to thaw), the drained and rinsed can of chickpeas, and 1/2 cup of water. Stir well, cover, and let simmer for 5-7 minutes until the spinach is fully heated through and wilted.
6. Pour in the full can of coconut milk. Stir to combine, bring the curry back to a gentle simmer, and cook uncovered for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy curry hot over a bed of the prepared fluffy white rice. For a beautiful presentation, garnish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat. It pairs wonderfully with warm naan bread or roti for dipping. A side of tangy mango chutney or a simple cucumber raita (using vegan yogurt) completes the meal.
How-to Summary
This one-pot curry is a simple process: cook your rice, then sauté aromatics and spices, add tomatoes, then the main ingredients (spinach & chickpeas), and finally enrich with coconut milk. Simmer until creamy and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can substitute about 5-6 cups of fresh spinach. Add it in step 5 and stir until just wilted.
How can I make this curry spicier?
Add 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper when sautéing the initial spices, or top with sliced fresh chili peppers.
Is there a substitute for coconut milk?
For a lighter version, you can use light coconut milk. For a nuttier flavor, cashew cream is an excellent alternative.
How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Store the curry and rice separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely. Diced bell peppers, cauliflower florets, or sweet potatoes are great additions. Sauté harder vegetables with the onion to ensure they cook through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Blooming the Spices: Sautéing the curry powder and cumin with the onion and garlic for a full minute is crucial to unlock their full flavor. Don’t rush this step.
- Overcooking the Coconut Milk: Once the coconut milk is added, keep the simmer gentle. A vigorous boil can cause it to separate or become oily.
- Forgetting to Drain Chickpeas: Always drain and rinse canned chickpeas to remove the excess sodium and the starchy liquid, which can affect the sauce’s texture.
- Underseasoning: Taste the curry after adding the coconut milk and before serving. You may need an extra pinch of salt or a squeeze of lime to balance the creaminess.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chickpea & Spinach Curry is the epitome of a satisfying, nutritious, and flavorful vegan meal. It proves that simple ingredients, when combined with care, can create something truly special. With its detailed steps, serving ideas, and tips to avoid pitfalls, this recipe is designed for guaranteed success. It’s a versatile dish that welcomes customization, making it a perfect staple for your weekly dinner rotation. Enjoy the comforting, creamy results!
