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, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon coriander; 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can coconut milk; 4 cups fresh spinach; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love whipping up this Creamy Spinach Chickpea Curry whenever I want something both comforting and nutritious. The luscious blend of coconut milk, spinach, and chickpeas creates a rich, creamy sauce that’s perfect over rice or with naan. I enjoy experimenting with different spices, and this combination of cumin and coriander elevates the dish to a whole new level. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens! If you’re looking for a satisfying vegetarian meal, this one might just become a favorite.

Created by

Chelsea Payne

Last updated on 2026-01-18T02:52:07.510Z

When I first made Creamy Spinach Chickpea Curry, I was surprised at how quickly it came together. The creaminess of coconut milk perfectly balances the earthiness of the chickpeas and the vibrance of the spinach. I remember savoring the first bite, which was like taking a warm hug from a bowl.

I found that letting it simmer just a little longer allows the flavors to meld beautifully. It's a mindset shift: sometimes simple ingredients, when treated with care and time, can yield an extraordinary meal. Plus, it's packed with protein and fiber!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture that's incredibly satisfying
Packed with nutrition from spinach and chickpeas
Versatile; can be served with rice, naan, or even quinoa

      

Mastering the Sauce

The base of this Creamy Spinach Chickpea Curry relies on the combination of coconut milk and spices, which creates a luscious sauce. When you pour in the coconut milk, look for it to blend smoothly with the spices—this is your cue that the flavors are melding beautifully. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened; this is crucial as it concentrates the flavors without making the sauce too watery.

If you find the sauce is too thick for your liking after simmering, you can always stir in a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, simply continue simmering it uncovered for a few minutes until it thickens. This flexibility in adjusting the sauce is key to achieving just the right texture and flavor balance.

Choosing Your Greens

While spinach is the star of this dish, don't hesitate to mix in other leafy greens for added texture and nutrition. Kale or Swiss chard can be fantastic substitutes; just remember that kale takes a little longer to wilt—add it during the simmering stage to ensure it softens properly. If you want to use frozen spinach, ensure it's fully thawed and drained to prevent excess moisture from diluting the sauce.

For a richer flavor profile, you might consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving. It brightens the dish beautifully, cutting through the creaminess of the coconut milk and adding an appealing freshness that elevates the overall taste.

Ingredients for Creamy Spinach Chickpea Curry

Main Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon coriander
1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can coconut milk
4 cups fresh spinach
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

How to Make Creamy Spinach Chickpea Curry

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and ginger, sautéing for an additional minute.

Add Spices and Chickpeas

Sprinkle in the cumin and coriander, stirring for about 30 seconds to bloom the spices. Then, add the drained chickpeas, mixing well to coat them in the aromatic mixture.

Incorporate Coconut Milk

Pour in the coconut milk, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, letting it thicken slightly.

Add Spinach

Gradually fold in the fresh spinach. Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the spinach wilts, adding salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Serve hot over rice or with naan, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lime juice just before serving.

Customizing Your Curry

This Creamy Spinach Chickpea Curry is versatile, providing an excellent base for customization. If you're in the mood for heat, consider adding a diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the aromatics. Additionally, throwing in some finely chopped tomatoes after adding the spices can enhance the depth of flavor, as they will cook down and meld into the sauce beautifully.

For those looking for protein variations, you can swap out chickpeas for cooked lentils or even edamame. Simply adjust the cooking time, as lentils typically require a shorter cooking time to remain tender yet firm, while preserving the integrity of the sauce.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can easily prepare this curry in advance, making it perfect for meal prep. Once it’s cooked, allow the curry to cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, making it taste even better the next day!

For longer storage, this dish freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into individual containers and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. If it seems dry after freezing, add a splash of water or coconut milk while reheating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach is a great alternative. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding.

→ Is this curry spicy?

No, this recipe is mild, but you can add chili powder or fresh chilies if you prefer some heat.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

This recipe is already vegan as it uses coconut milk and no animal products.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Absolutely! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.