Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew

Name: Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can coconut milk; 1 large onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 2 cups spinach, chopped; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Ideas

I absolutely love the vibrant flavors of this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew. Combining the earthiness of chickpeas with the brightness of lemon creates a dish that is both comforting and refreshing. When I first made this, I wanted something healthy yet indulgent, and this stew exceeded my expectations. The creamy coconut milk adds a rich texture that beautifully complements the zesty lemon juice. I promise you, this recipe will warm your heart and brighten your day!

Created by

Unity Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-01-21T18:58:36.211Z

When I first devised this Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew, I wanted to explore the harmony between creamy textures and bright, zesty flavors. The combination not only satisfies the soul but also provides a burst of freshness that lifts the dish. Using coconut milk not only gives it that creamy consistency but also enriches it with subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with the tartness of lemon.

Through several iterations, I discovered that adding fresh herbs at the end—like parsley or cilantro—enhances the overall flavor profile, making each bite a delightful experience. It’s tailored for busy weeknights but is also impressive enough for company, proving that simple ingredients can yield extraordinary results.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright, citrusy flavor that wakes up your taste buds
Creamy texture that makes it feel indulgent and satisfying
Packed with nutrition and plant-based protein from chickpeas

      

The Creamy Coconut Base

Coconut milk is the star of this stew, bringing a creamy and rich texture that enhances the overall flavor profile. It's essential to choose full-fat coconut milk for the best results; this ensures a luscious consistency that clings beautifully to the chickpeas and vegetables. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can use light coconut milk, but keep in mind that it may not provide the same indulgent creaminess. Make sure to shake the can well before opening, as the cream can separate from the liquid.

Incorporating coconut milk not only elevates the dish but also adds a subtle sweetness that balances the tartness of the lemon. To make the stew even creamier, consider blending a portion of the chickpeas with the coconut milk before adding it to the pot. This creates a velvety base that thickens the stew, resulting in a more luxurious mouthfeel.

Brighten Up with Lemon

The freshness of lemon juice and zest plays a crucial role in this dish, cutting through the richness of the coconut milk and bringing brightness to every spoonful. When zesting the lemon, be careful to only take the yellow part of the peel, as the white pith underneath can impart a bitter flavor. Always taste the stew before adding extra lemon juice; the right balance is key to ensuring the stew is lively without being overwhelmingly tart.

If you're planning to make this stew ahead of time, I recommend adding the lemon juice right before serving. This preserves the vibrant flavor and aroma, which can dissipate over time. If you're looking for a different citrus twist, try substituting with lime for a slightly different flavor profile that also works beautifully in this stew.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create the perfect stew:

Main Ingredients

2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can coconut milk
1 large onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup vegetable broth
1 lemon, juiced and zested
2 cups spinach, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious stew:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Cook the Chickpeas

Add the chickpeas, ground cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir everything together and cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Add Coconut Milk and Broth

Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat and let it cook for about 10 minutes.

Finish with Spinach and Lemon

Stir in the chopped spinach, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or pair the stew with crusty bread for dipping.

Perfect Pairings

This Creamy Lemon Chickpea Stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or fluffy jasmine rice, allowing you to soak up every drop of the rich stew. For a heartier meal, consider serving it over quinoa, which adds a nutty flavor and additional protein. If you're feeling adventurous, a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also add a refreshing touch.

For a more complete meal, feel free to top the stew with roasted vegetables or avocado slices. These add not only texture but also a layer of flavor that can elevate your dining experience. Just be sure to add them before serving so they remain fresh and vibrant.

Make-ahead and Storage Tips

This stew is fantastic for meal prep! You can make a large batch ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to freeze it, cool the stew completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to three months; just reheat it gently on the stovetop when you're ready to enjoy. You may need to add a dash of vegetable broth to loosen it up after thawing.

When reheating, do so over low heat to prevent the coconut milk from separating. Stir frequently until it's heated through, and adjust the seasoning again with lemon juice or salt if necessary. By making it ahead, you’ll find that the flavors meld even more, making each warm bowl even more comforting than the last.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes! This stew actually tastes better the next day as the flavors develop further. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

→ Can I use fresh chickpeas instead of canned?

Absolutely! If you're using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the stew.

→ What can I substitute for coconut milk?

You can use almond milk or any unsweetened plant-based milk, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor will be different.

→ Is this stew suitable for freezing?

Yes, this stew freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.