Chickpea and Spinach Coconut Curry

I’m pretty sure people are using Chat GPT to start businesses and run the world, but this week I just used it to find new dinner recipes.

I’m pretty old school when it comes to recipes. I like the ones passed down through generations. This usually involves something Italian. And when it comes to ingredients, in my old age I’m now pickier than a toddler. But I was willing to give it a try to see what Chat came up with.

I only asked for two recipes. One was this Chickpea and Coconut Chickpea Curry. Risky in a house full of kids. However, let me spoil the ending: they LOVED it!

There are still tomatoes in this recipe, so I didn’t deviate too far from my roots. But the creamy coconut milk and sweet spice of ginger and garam masala made this dish cozy. The spinach adds color and nutrients. And the chickpeas make this a great source of protein on any meatless meal night.

Aside from being absolutely delicious, this dish is extremely healthy. (Don’t tell the kids)

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

Canned Chickpeas - Chickpeas are packed with essential nutrients, including fiber, protein, magnesium, calcium, iron, and vitamins B and C. The high fiber and protein content in chickpeas promote satiety, making you feel full for longer and potentially aiding in weight management. And it’s a cheap way to add in protein. A cup of chickpeas can contain around 14.5 grams of plant protein.

Coconut Milk - Coconut milk contains a type of fat called medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). Research shows MCTs can reduce body weight and the buildup of fat as well as boost exercise endurance.

Spinach - Who can’t use more dark leafy greens in their diet? Spinach is packed with essential nutrients, including vitamins A, C, K, folate, iron, and magnesium. I added more than the recipe called for since it wilts and we can all use more spinach.

Turmeric - Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has potent anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain, swelling, and arthritis. Be careful when cooking with it. This spice will leave a highlighter yellow stain on your clothes or countertop. But the health benefits are worth adding.

Garam Masala - This is a spice blend I don’t typically have on hand, but is rich in antioxidants, such as cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Antioxidants help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to chronic diseases.

THE RECIPE: CHICKPEA AND SPINACH COCONUT CURRY

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

• 1 cup fresh spinach

• 1 onion, diced

• 2 cloves of garlic, minced

• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated

• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk

• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)

• 1 tsp turmeric

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1/2 tsp garam masala

• 1/ tsp Paprika

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt & pepper to taste

• Cooked rice or naan for serving

DIRECTIONS

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until soft

2. Add garlic and ginger, cooking for 1 more minute.

3. Stir in turmeric, cumin, garam masala and paprika. Cook for 30 seconds.  

4. Pour in tomatoes and coconut milk. Stir and bring to a simmer. 

5. Add chickpeas and let simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. 

6. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.

7. Serve over rice or with naan.