Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we start cooking, let’s gather everything you’ll need. This recipe is all about keeping things simple, so most ingredients are pantry staples:
Core Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups fresh spinach, washed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of ½ lemon
Optional toppings include fresh cilantro, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, or a dollop of plain yogurt.
Cooking the Chickpea and Spinach Stir-Fry
Now that you’re armed with your ingredients, let’s get cooking! Follow these steps for a foolproof stir-fry that’ll impress every time.
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Before you heat up the stove, take a few minutes to chop and measure everything. Trust me, having your ingredients ready makes cooking a breeze.
- Chop the onion, garlic, and tomato.
- Rinse and drain the chickpeas.
- Wash and pat dry the spinach leaves.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
The magic of this recipe starts with a flavorful base. Here’s how to nail it:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Toss in the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. The aroma at this stage? Simply divine.
Step 3: Add the Chickpeas and Spices
Now it’s time to let the chickpeas shine:
- Stir in the drained chickpeas and mix well.
- Add paprika, turmeric, and chili flakes. Stir to coat the chickpeas evenly.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse.
This step gives the chickpeas a deep, smoky flavor that’s irresistible.
Step 4: Incorporate Spinach and Tomatoes
Finally, it’s time to bring everything together:
- Add the diced tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes until they soften slightly.
- Toss in the spinach leaves and stir gently. Cover the skillet for 1-2 minutes to let the spinach wilt.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Stir everything together one last time, and your Chickpea and Spinach Stir-Fry is ready to serve!
Wrapping It Up
There you have it—a simple, wholesome recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a meal-prep option, or a flavorful side dish, this Chickpea and Spinach Stir-Fry checks all the boxes.
So, what’s stopping you? Grab a skillet, raid your pantry, and get cooking. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your household. Let me know how it turns out—I’d love to hear your spin on this classic!