This Easy Marry Me Chickpeas recipe is packed with flavor and super simple to make! With chickpeas, garlic, and yummy spices, you’ll have a tasty meal in no time.
Honestly, these chickpeas are so good that you might want to propose to them! 😂 I love enjoying them over rice or just by themselves. They’re a hit on busy days!
Making this dish is a breeze! Just sauté, stir in the spices, and enjoy. I appreciate how quick it is to whip up when I’m hungry and need something delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chickpeas: These are the stars of the dish! Canned chickpeas are super convenient. If you’re feeling adventurous, dried chickpeas can be used, but remember to soak and cook them first.
Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk adds creaminess and a lovely flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, light coconut milk works too, but the sauce will be thinner. Almond milk is another substitute, but it will change the taste a bit.
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives a vibrant color and nutrition. If you don’t have spinach, kale or Swiss chard would work. You can also use frozen spinach; just thaw and squeeze out any excess water before adding it in.
Spices: Cumin and smoked paprika give warmth and depth. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or even chili powder can work, depending on how much smokiness you want.
How Do I Perfectly Sauté Garlic Without Burning It?
Sautéing garlic may seem simple but can easily go wrong! To get it just right, follow these steps:
- Always use medium heat. High heat can burn the garlic quickly.
- Add the minced garlic once the oil is hot (look for shimmering oil).
- Stir constantly for about 1 minute until it turns golden. If it browns too fast, turn down the heat.
Getting this right will ensure your dish has that lovely garlic aroma without the bitter taste of burnt garlic! 😊
Easy Marry Me Chickpeas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk (full fat for creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time, totaling around 30 minutes. You’ll love how quickly this tasty dish comes together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Garlic:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden. Watch it closely to prevent burning!
2. Toast the Spices:
Next, stir in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for about 30 seconds, allowing the spices to toast and bring out their wonderful aromas.
3. Add the Chickpeas:
Add the drained and rinsed chickpeas to the skillet. Give it a good stir to coat the chickpeas with the flavored oil and spices.
4. Incorporate the Tomato Paste:
Mix in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to combine everything well.
5. Add the Coconut Milk:
Pour in the coconut milk and stir everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer while you enjoy the warm, inviting scents!
6. Cook Until Thickened:
Allow the chickpeas to cook in the sauce for about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally until the sauce slightly thickens, making it comforting and delicious.
7. Stir in the Spinach:
Add the chopped spinach and cook just until it wilts—about 2 minutes. Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
8. Prepare to Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat. If you want, garnish it with some freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and extra flavor.
9. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve the chickpeas hot over rice, quinoa, or with warm crusty bread. It’s a cozy, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress everyone who tries it. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ About Easy Marry Me Chickpeas
Can I Use Different Beans Instead of Chickpeas?
Absolutely! While chickpeas give the best texture and flavor for this dish, you can substitute them with other beans like black beans or white beans. Just keep in mind that the cooking time and overall taste may vary slightly.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
This recipe is already vegan as it uses chickpeas, coconut milk, and vegetables. However, always double-check the labels on your ingredients to ensure there are no hidden animal products!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
What Can I Serve with Marry Me Chickpeas?
This dish pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or warm crusty bread. For a lighter option, serve it over a bed of greens or alongside a fresh salad. You’ll have a well-rounded meal!
