Creamy Spinach Chickpea Stew

Name: Creamy Spinach Chickpea Stew
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 4 cups fresh spinach; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup raw cashews, soaked; 1/2 cup water; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making this Creamy Spinach Chickpea Stew on busy weeknights. It's not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrition. The creaminess comes from blending cashews, which adds a rich texture without dairy. Incorporating spinach not only boosts the flavor but also delivers essential vitamins. Whether served with crusty bread or rice, this stew has a way of warming you up on cold days and making you feel cherished. I can't wait for you to try it!

Created by

Ruby Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-18T02:13:12.633Z

When I first created this Creamy Spinach Chickpea Stew, I wanted something hearty that could easily transform into a meal for unexpected guests. The combination of chickpeas and creamy cashew sauce works brilliantly, making the stew filling and satisfying. After several tests, I realized that blending the cashews with a bit of water first ensures an ultra-smooth texture that enhances the dish.

One secret I discovered is to sauté the onions and garlic until they are caramelized before adding the spinach and chickpeas. This step elevates the flavor profile, making the stew irresistible! I often double the recipe because it keeps well for lunch the next day, saving me cooking time without sacrificing taste.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture that soothes your soul
Nutritious and filling without heavy ingredients
Perfect one-pot meal for busy weeknights

      

The Role of Cashew Cream

The cashew cream not only adds a luscious texture to this stew but also serves as a nutritious alternative to dairy. Using soaked raw cashews creates that rich, creamy mouthfeel, while also providing healthy fats and protein. Don't skip this step! If you're in a pinch, an unsweetened dairy-free yogurt can substitute in a similar way, but the flavor profile will shift slightly towards tangy.

Ensure the cashews are properly soaked for at least 2 hours to achieve a smooth purée. This is crucial because unsoaked cashews can result in a grainy texture that detracts from the overall dish. If you're short on time, you can soak them in hot water for about 30 minutes, which will yield better results compared to skipping this step altogether.

Mastering the Cooking Process

Cooking the onions and garlic until they're golden brown significantly enhances the flavor of the stew. Aim for about 5–7 minutes over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent burning. This caramelization process releases natural sugars, adding depth to the stew that pairs beautifully with the spices.

When adding the spinach, come to a gentle simmer rather than a rapid boil. This helps retain the vibrant green color and prevents the spinach from becoming limp and overcooked. You'll know it's done when it has just wilted but still retains some structure, typically around 2–3 minutes of cooking.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
4 cups fresh spinach
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cashew Cream

1 cup raw cashews, soaked
1/2 cup water
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a deliciously creamy stew!

Prepare the Cashew Cream

Blend the soaked cashews, water, and lemon juice together in a blender until completely smooth. Set aside.

Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until golden brown and fragrant.

Add Vegetables and Spices

Stir in the chickpeas, spinach, coconut milk, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 10 minutes or until the spinach is wilted and tender.

Incorporate Cashew Cream

Reduce heat and add the cashew cream to the pot, stirring until well combined and heated through. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Your Creamy Spinach Chickpea Stew is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider stirring in some lemon zest or fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley before serving.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This stew stores wonderfully! If you have leftovers, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or you can freeze it for longer shelf life. To thaw frozen stew, simply move it to the fridge a day ahead, or you can use the defrost function on your microwave for quicker results.

When reheating, do so gently over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. You might want to add a splash of water or additional coconut milk to loosen the texture back up—the stew tends to thicken as it sits. Always check the seasoning before serving, as flavors can mellow over time.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Spinach Chickpea Stew pairs perfectly with crusty whole-grain bread or cooked rice, creating a filling and satisfying meal. For an extra touch, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, or a drizzle of olive oil for added richness. If you're feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of sesame seeds can introduce a delightful crunch.

For a more substantial meal, you can also serve this stew over quinoa or couscous. Each alternative will bring its own flavor to the dish while complementing the creamy texture and savory spices. Don't hesitate to tweak the consistency by adjusting the amount of coconut milk to your preference—some might fancy it saucier, while others appreciate a thicker stew.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes, this stew holds up well and can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat before serving.

→ Is there a substitute for coconut milk?

You can use almond milk or vegetable broth, but note that it will alter the creaminess of the stew.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Carrots or bell peppers would work great as well. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this Creamy Spinach Chickpea Stew is entirely plant-based and vegan-friendly!