This dish features hearty chickpeas cooked with tasty spices and a hint of garlic. It’s easy to make and will have everyone asking for the recipe—hence the name!
Seriously, who knew chickpeas could be this lovable? I like to serve it over rice or with crusty bread. It’s cozy, filling, and perfect for any day of the week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chickpeas: These are the star of the dish! Use canned for convenience, but dried chickpeas can be used too—just remember to soak and cook them first. They add protein and fiber, making this dish hearty.
Coconut Milk or Heavy Cream: I love using coconut milk for a subtle sweetness. If you’re not a fan or need a dairy-free option, consider using almond milk or a cashew cream. They add a creamy texture without overwhelming the dish.
Spices: Ground cumin and smoked paprika give fantastic depth. If you can’t find smoked paprika, regular paprika works, but add a touch of liquid smoke for that flavor. Don’t hesitate to tweak the spice levels based on your taste!
Fresh Spinach: This adds a lovely color and nutrition. Spinach wilts down significantly, so feel free to swap in other greens like kale or swiss chard if you prefer.
How Do I Make Sure My Chickpeas are Flavorful?
Getting a good flavor in your chickpeas is all about the layering of ingredients. Start by sautéing the onions and garlic until they’re soft and fragrant; this builds a rich base. After that, add your spices to the oil before the liquids. This “toasting” of the spices enhances their flavor immensely!
- Heat your oil to a medium temperature to prevent burning the garlic.
- Add vegetables like onions first, then spices for at least a minute before adding the chickpeas and liquids. This way, all flavors blend nicely.
- Simmer the mixture to let the flavors meld together before adding the spinach.
Enjoy your cooking adventure and serve this dish hot for the best flavors!
How to Make Easy Marry Me Chickpeas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Dish:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper or 1-2 dried red chilies, chopped
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 (15-ounce) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup vegetable broth or water
- 1 cup coconut milk or heavy cream for creaminess
- 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
- Bread or rice for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
The preparation time for this scrumptious recipe is about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of around 20 minutes. In total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes from start to finish! It’s a quick, delightful dish you’ll want to make again and again.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
First, heat 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 form the base of your dish!
2. Add the Flavor:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and chopped red bell pepper (or dried red chilies). Add the ground cumin, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook this mixture for 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant—your kitchen will smell amazing!
3. Combine the Chickpeas:
Now, add the drained and rinsed chickpeas to the skillet. Stir everything together, ensuring the chickpeas are well coated with those wonderful spices and flavors.
4. Simmer with Broth:
Pour in the vegetable broth and give it a good stir. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes. This step allows the chickpeas to soak up all that delicious flavor.
5. Create a Creamy Sauce:
Time to add the coconut milk (or heavy cream). Stir continuously to create a creamy sauce and let it simmer on low heat for another 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
6. Add the Greens:
Fold in the chopped fresh spinach and cook until it’s just wilted, which should take about 1-2 minutes. This adds a lovely color and nutrition to the dish!
7. Season to Taste:
Finally, season the dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust as you like, making sure it’s perfect for your palate!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the chickpeas hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley if you’d like. Pair it with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a delightful meal. Enjoy every bite!
This rich, flavorful, creamy chickpea dish is easy to make and sure to impress your family and friends. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Dried Chickpeas Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer dried chickpeas, soak 1 cup overnight and cook them until tender before using them in this recipe. You’ll need about 2 cups of cooked chickpeas to replace the two cans.
What Can I Substitute for Coconut Milk?
If you’re not a fan of coconut milk, you can use heavy cream for a rich flavor. Alternatively, almond milk or oat milk can work, but they won’t offer the same creaminess. If you use thinner plant-based milks, consider adding a bit of flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating. If the sauce thickens too much, you can add a splash of broth or water.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to get creative! Zucchini, kale, or even carrots make great additions. Just chop them up and sauté them with the onions and peppers to ensure they’re cooked through before adding the chickpeas.
