Creamy Spinach Chickpea Curry

Name: Creamy Spinach Chickpea Curry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon coriander; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 4 cups fresh spinach; Salt and pepper to taste; Chili flakes for heat (optional)

Highlighted under: Worldly Creations

I absolutely love making this Creamy Spinach Chickpea Curry whenever I crave something hearty yet nutritious. The creamy texture blend is an excellent way to elevate both fresh spinach and chickpeas, creating a delightful meal. With spices bringing warmth and flavor, this dish transforms simple ingredients into something truly special. It’s quick to whip up and perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, leaving you with a satisfying comfort food to indulge in without the guilt.

Created by

Eliza Thornton

Last updated on 2026-01-18T04:01:24.878Z

When I first made this Creamy Spinach Chickpea Curry, I wanted to recreate a dish I enjoyed at a local restaurant. I experimented with different spices and coconut milk to achieve that lush, creamy consistency I craved. The result was nothing short of a revelation!

What I learned during the process is that sautéing the onion and garlic thoroughly before adding the spices really enhances the flavor base. It creates a deep, aromatic foundation that perfectly complements the chickpeas and fresh spinach. Trust me, it’s the little details that make all the difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying meal that's rich in flavor
Creamy coconut milk pairs beautifully with vibrant spinach
Perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep

Building Flavor with Spices

The foundation of this curry's flavor lies in the aromatic spices. When you add cumin, coriander, and turmeric, make sure to cook them just long enough—about 1-2 minutes—until they become fragrant. This step not only enhances the flavor of the spices but also releases their essential oils, which elevates the entire dish. By sautéing the spices with the onion, garlic, and ginger, you create a complex, savory base that complements the creaminess of the coconut milk perfectly.

Should you find yourself without coriander or turmeric, spices like garam masala or curry powder can work as substitutes. However, note that this might slightly alter the flavor profile of the dish. If you're feeling adventurous, experimenting with a pinch of smoked paprika can add a new dimension and depth to the curry, creating a lovely smoky undertone alongside the earthy chickpeas.

Perfectly Wilting Spinach

When stirring in the fresh spinach, it's essential to monitor your cooking time to achieve the best texture. Cook the spinach just until it wilts—typically around 3-4 minutes. This ensures it retains a vibrant green color and soft texture without becoming mushy. If you prefer a chunkier texture, consider adding the spinach in two stages; this way, some can wilt quickly while others retain a bit more bite, offering a lovely contrast in the dish.

If you have leftover cooked spinach or other greens like kale, feel free to incorporate them into the curry. Just be aware that each green has its cooking time; for example, kale takes slightly longer to soften. This flexibility allows you to use whatever greens are on hand, making the recipe adaptable and even more nutritious.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare a flavorful and nutritious curry.

For the Curry

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon coriander
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
4 cups fresh spinach
Salt and pepper to taste
Chili flakes for heat (optional)

Once you've gathered everything, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your delicious curry.

Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Add Spices

Sprinkle in the cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Cook the spices for 1-2 minutes to release their essential oils, stirring constantly.

Combine Chickpeas and Coconut Milk

Add the chickpeas and coconut milk to the pan, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer and let cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Incorporate Spinach

Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and optional chili flakes to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the curry warm over rice or with naan for a complete meal. Enjoy your creamy, comforting dish!

Enjoy your homemade Creamy Spinach Chickpea Curry!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. You can also customize this recipe by including other vegetables like bell peppers or sweet potatoes.

Storing and Reheating

This Creamy Spinach Chickpea Curry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When reheating, use low heat on the stovetop to gently warm the curry, stirring periodically. If you find the curry has thickened too much, adding a splash of coconut milk or vegetable broth can help restore its creamy consistency.

For longer storage, you can freeze this curry for up to 3 months. To do this, let the curry cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and remember that the texture of the spinach may change slightly; it will still be delicious.

Serving Suggestions

While serving this curry with rice or naan is an excellent choice, you might also consider pairing it with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier option. The mild flavors of the curry work well alongside grains that can soak up any extra sauce. Top with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for a refreshing contrast.

For an added crunch, you could sprinkle some toasted coconut or roasted peanuts on top just before serving. This encourages a delightful textural contrast, enhancing your dining experience with a nutty bite that complements the creaminess of the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it to remove excess water before adding it to the curry.

→ How can I make this curry spicier?

You can add fresh chopped chilies, more chili flakes, or a dash of cayenne pepper according to your heat preference.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan as it uses coconut milk and plant-based ingredients.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Yes, store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.