Sweet Potato Chickpea Spinach Curry

This Sweet Potato Chickpea Spinach Curry is a wholesome, one-pot dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. With minimal effort required, this curry is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of sweet potatoes, chickpeas, and spinach is cooked in a flavorful coconut milk-based sauce with aromatic spices. It’s a comforting meal that’s packed with plant-based protein and fiber, making it a delicious and nutritious choice for vegetarians and vegans alike.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 large onion, diced

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 tbsp ground cumin

  • 1 tbsp ground coriander

  • 1 tbsp ground turmeric

  • 1 ½ cups diced sweet potatoes (peeled)

  • 1 ½ cups canned chickpeas (drained and rinsed)

  • 2 cups spinach (fresh or frozen)

  • 1 can (400ml) coconut milk

  • 1 ½ cups vegetable broth

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Directions

  1. Cook the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic, cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

  2. Add Sweet Potatoes and Chickpeas: Stir in the diced sweet potatoes and chickpeas, and cook for 2 minutes.

  3. Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let the curry simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.

  4. Add Spinach: Stir in the spinach and cook for another 3–5 minutes, until wilted and tender.

  5. Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the curry hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Nutrients (per serving)

  • Calories: 335 kcal

  • Carbohydrates: 42 g

  • Protein: 10 g

  • Total Fat: 16 g

    • Saturated Fat: 9 g

  • Sodium: 345 mg

  • Fiber: 8 g

  • Sugar: 6 g

  • Vitamin A: 12000 IU

  • Vitamin C: 15 mg

  • Calcium: 60 mg

  • Iron: 3 mg

A Flavorful Combination of Ingredients

The beauty of this Sweet Potato Chickpea Spinach Curry lies in its harmonious combination of ingredients. The sweet potatoes bring a natural sweetness and soft texture that pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of chickpeas. Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are a protein powerhouse that provides a satisfying, hearty base for this curry. Their nutty flavor and creamy texture help balance the richness of the coconut milk and enhance the overall depth of the dish.

Spinach is another key ingredient in this curry, not only contributing vibrant color but also adding a dose of essential nutrients. Spinach is rich in vitamins A and C, iron, calcium, and fiber, making it an excellent addition to any dish. Whether you use fresh or frozen spinach, the greens will wilt beautifully into the curry, adding a pop of freshness that complements the creamy sauce and tender vegetables.

The Aromatic Spices That Define the Dish

The secret to this dish’s bold and inviting flavor lies in the aromatic spices that bring it all together. Ground cumin, coriander, and turmeric are the primary spices used in this curry. These spices are staples in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisines and add both warmth and depth to the dish.

Cumin offers a savory, earthy flavor with a slight citrusy undertone, while coriander adds a mild, citrus-like freshness. Turmeric, often recognized for its bright yellow color, brings an earthy bitterness and a subtle peppery warmth that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the potatoes. Together, these spices infuse the curry with a fragrant, tantalizing aroma that will fill your kitchen with warmth and promise.

The Rich and Creamy Coconut Milk Base

Coconut milk is the foundation of this curry’s creamy and rich texture. It provides a natural sweetness and velvety consistency that coats the vegetables and chickpeas beautifully. Coconut milk also helps mellow out the heat from the spices and balances the sweet and savory components of the dish.

In addition to its flavor and texture, coconut milk is also a great source of healthy fats, particularly medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can offer various health benefits, including supporting brain function and energy levels. The creamy richness of coconut milk makes this curry feel indulgent without being overly heavy, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.

A Nutrient-Dense and Balanced Meal

This Sweet Potato Chickpea Spinach Curry is more than just a flavorful dish; it’s also a nutrient-dense, well-rounded meal. The combination of sweet potatoes, chickpeas, and spinach provides an excellent mix of carbohydrates, protein, and fiber, ensuring that you feel full and satisfied after eating. The healthy fats from the coconut milk add richness without compromising the dish’s overall nutritional profile.

Sweet potatoes are high in vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber. They are known for their antioxidant properties, which help fight free radicals in the body. Paired with chickpeas, which are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and essential minerals like iron and magnesium, this curry provides a balanced meal that nourishes the body. The addition of spinach boosts the nutrient content even further, making it a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals.

Quick and Easy to Prepare

One of the major advantages of this dish is how quickly it comes together. In just 30 minutes, you can have a comforting, wholesome meal ready to serve. The simplicity of the recipe makes it accessible for cooks of all experience levels. With just a handful of basic ingredients and a single pot, you can create a dish that feels like it took much longer to prepare.

The cooking process involves a few simple steps, including sautéing onions, garlic, and spices, then adding in the vegetables and coconut milk to simmer. There’s no need for complicated techniques or special equipment—just a basic pot or Dutch oven and your stovetop are all you need. The result is a dish that’s rich in flavor and texture without requiring hours of preparation.

Perfect for Customization

One of the most appealing aspects of this Sweet Potato Chickpea Spinach Curry is how versatile it is. While the base recipe is already delicious, it can be easily customized based on your preferences or what ingredients you have on hand. For example, you could add other vegetables such as bell peppers, cauliflower, or carrots to enhance the flavor and texture of the dish. If you want to add some extra protein, tofu, tempeh, or even a sprinkle of seeds or nuts can be incorporated to make the curry even more hearty.

For those who like a little heat, the curry can be spiced up with some fresh chili or red pepper flakes. On the other hand, if you prefer a milder curry, you can reduce the amount of spices or opt for a more neutral base. The coconut milk in the recipe provides a rich, creamy foundation that balances whatever spices or vegetables you choose to add.

Serving Suggestions

This Sweet Potato Chickpea Spinach Curry pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, enhancing its flavors and providing a complete meal. Serve it over steamed basmati rice or quinoa for a satisfying, carb-rich side that complements the curry’s richness. For a lighter option, you could serve it with cauliflower rice or enjoy it on its own.

If you’re in the mood for a more filling meal, pair the curry with naan bread or pita, perfect for scooping up the curry and soaking up the flavorful sauce. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a fresh contrast to the creamy curry, adding balance and a refreshing crunch to the meal.

Conclusion

Sweet Potato Chickpea Spinach Curry is a delightful, comforting, and nutritious meal that comes together quickly and effortlessly. The combination of earthy sweet potatoes, protein-packed chickpeas, and nutrient-dense spinach, all enveloped in a creamy coconut milk sauce, makes this curry an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy a satisfying plant-based meal. With its bold spices, creamy texture, and versatility, this curry is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering, this dish provides a wholesome and delicious option that everyone will love. It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly remarkable.

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