This Easy Marry Me Chickpeas recipe is a fun and tasty dish that brings together chickpeas, spices, and a touch of love! It’s packed with flavor and perfect for any meal.
You won’t believe how simple it is to whip up this dish! I love serving it with rice or bread, and it makes my taste buds do a happy dance. Who doesn’t love a dish that can win hearts? 💖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chickpeas: These legumes provide protein and texture. Canned chickpeas are super convenient, but you can also use cooked dried chickpeas if you have time. Just soak and cook them ahead.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the dish. You can substitute with avocado oil or vegetable oil if you want a different flavor or if you’re looking for a neutral option.
Onion: A small onion gives great depth. If you’re short on onions, shallots or even green onions can work too. They add a nice mild flavor.
Spices: Ground cumin and smoked paprika are key players here. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika is fine, or even some cayenne for a kick! Adjust based on your spice tolerance.
Coconut Milk: This gives the dish a creamy texture. If you’re not a fan of coconut, try using heavy cream or even cashew cream for a nutty twist.
How Do I Make Sure the Spinach is Perfectly Cooked?
Adding spinach at the right time is crucial for its flavor and texture. You want it wilted but still vibrant. Here’s how:
- Add spinach towards the end of the cooking process, just before serving.
- Stir gently until just wilted, which takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Avoid overcooking to keep that bright green color and fresh taste!
Remember, the spinach will continue to cook even after you turn off the heat, so keep an eye on it!
Easy Marry Me Chickpeas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red chili or ½ tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (or fresh)
- ½ cup coconut milk or cream
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Juice of half a lemon (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Marry Me Chickpeas recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 25 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté it for about 5 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. This will create a lovely base for your dish.
2. Add Garlic and Chili:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and your choice of red chili or chili flakes. Cook for another minute until the garlic is fragrant, being careful not to let it burn. You want that savory aroma to fill your kitchen!
3. Spice It Up:
Add the ground cumin and smoked paprika to the skillet, stirring gently for about 30 seconds to toast the spices. This step enhances their flavors and makes your dish even more aromatic.
4. Combine Chickpeas and Tomatoes:
Pour in the drained chickpeas and canned diced tomatoes, stirring well to combine everything. Allow it to cook for 5-7 minutes so the flavors can meld together nicely.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Now, slowly add in the coconut milk or cream while stirring continuously. This will turn your mixture into a creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste, making sure it’s delicious!
6. Add Spinach:
Time to brighten things up! Add the chopped spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes until it wilts and is evenly mixed in with the chickpeas. It’ll add color and nutrients to your meal!
7. Finishing Touches:
If you like, squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the dish for a fresh tangy flavor. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro for an added touch.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Easy Marry Me Chickpeas warm, alongside crusty bread, rice, or whatever side you love. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this flavorful dish that’s sure to win hearts!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Dried Chickpeas Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and cook until tender before using them in this recipe. You’ll need about 1.5 cups of cooked chickpeas to replace one can.
What Can I Substitute for Coconut Milk?
If you’re not a fan of coconut milk, you can use heavy cream or cashew cream as alternatives. For a lighter option, try low-fat milk or almond milk, though this will change the flavor slightly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it creamy.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or kale. Just remember to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure everything is cooked just right.
