Beet, Spinach & Chickpea Stew Recipe
If you’re craving something warm, nourishing, and packed with vibrant colors and flavors, look no further than the Beet, Spinach & Chickpea Stew. This delightful dish combines the earthy sweetness of beets, the fresh brightness of spinach, and the hearty texture of chickpeas, striking a perfect balance that comforts and captivates the palate. Whether it’s a chilly evening at home or a casual gathering with friends, this stew brings wholesome goodness and charm to your table with minimal fuss and maximum delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing fancy here, just simple, fresh ingredients that each play an essential role in building the deep flavors and inviting texture of the stew. Together, they create a colorful and satisfying bowl that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the taste buds.
- 2 cups diced beets: The star ingredient bringing sweetness and a gorgeous ruby hue.
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves: Adds a vibrant green color along with a mild, fresh earthy flavor.
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed: Packed with protein and creates the stew’s hearty base.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Builds a foundational savory flavor when sautéed.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the stew with a warm and aromatic punch.
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth: Keeps the dish light yet flavorful without overwhelming saltiness.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing, adds richness and helps meld the flavors.
- 1 tsp ground cumin: Introduces a subtle earthiness and gentle spice complexity.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing the natural sweetness of beets.
How to Make Beet, Spinach & Chickpea Stew
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by peeling and dicing your beets into small, bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly and absorb the broth flavors beautifully. Dice the onion finely and mince the garlic cloves; these aromatics will be the base of your stew.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot over medium heat, warm your olive oil. Add the diced onion and cook until it’s soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. This step draws out sweetness and builds depth in the stew’s flavor foundation.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices
Stir in the minced garlic and ground cumin, cooking for just about a minute until fragrant. This quick step will ignite the kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that hints at the heartiness to come.
Step 4: Simmer the Beets
Add your diced beets to the pot and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook uncovered for around 20 minutes, or until the beets are tender when pierced with a fork. The broth will take on a lovely pink hue, signaling flavor infusion.
Step 5: Fold in Spinach and Chickpeas
Once the beets are soft, add the fresh spinach and chickpeas. Cook for another 2 minutes until the spinach wilts and the chickpeas are heated through. Give the stew a final taste and season with salt and pepper as needed for balance.
How to Serve Beet, Spinach & Chickpea Stew
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a dollop of plain yogurt adds freshness and a creamy contrast that enhances the stew’s earthiness. A few toasted pumpkin seeds on top also bring crunch and a nutty flavor kick.
Side Dishes
This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread to mop up the delicious broth or a scoop of fluffy rice for a more filling meal. For a lighter side, a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette can brighten the overall plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Beet, Spinach & Chickpea Stew in cozy bowls for a laid-back family dinner, or dish it out in elegant ramekins topped with microgreens for a chic dinner party. For a twist, spoon it over roasted sweet potatoes or creamy polenta to give it a rich and comforting base.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The Beet, Spinach & Chickpea Stew keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors meld and deepen as it sits, making your leftovers even more satisfying.
Freezing
You can freeze this stew for up to 2 months. Portion it into individual freezer-safe containers for quick future meals. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain the best taste and texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or broth while reheating can help loosen the stew if it has thickened during storage.
FAQs
Can I use canned beets instead of fresh?
While canned beets can be used in a pinch, fresh beets provide the best flavor and texture for the Beet, Spinach & Chickpea Stew. Fresh beets also impart a richer color and slightly sweeter taste that shines in the dish.
Is this stew suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! The recipe is entirely plant-based, using vegetable broth and wholesome ingredients, making it a nutritious vegan meal with both protein and fiber.
Can I substitute spinach with other greens?
Yes, you can swap spinach for kale, Swiss chard, or collard greens. Just be mindful that tougher greens may need a longer cooking time to soften properly.
How spicy is the stew?
This stew is mild with warming cumin notes but not spicy hot. If you want to add heat, consider sprinkling some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper while sautéing the garlic.
Can I add other vegetables to this stew?
Definitely! Carrots, celery, or potatoes can be added along with the beets for extra heartiness. Just adjust the simmering time so all the vegetables cook to tender perfection.
Final Thoughts
The Beet, Spinach & Chickpea Stew is a vibrant celebration of wholesome ingredients coming together in a simple, comforting dish that warms you from the inside out. It’s effortless to prepare yet feels special enough to serve again and again. Give it a try and let this stew become your go-to recipe for cozy, nutritious meals full of color, flavor, and love.
