This Marry Me Chickpeas dish is a creamy and tasty treat that will make your taste buds dance! Packed with flavor from garlic and spices, it’s easy to whip up and super satisfying.
Honestly, once I make this, I just can’t stop eating it! It’s great on its own or served with rice. Trust me, it’s a meal everyone will fall in love with! 😍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chickpeas: The star of this dish! You can use canned chickpeas for convenience or cook dried ones if you prefer. If you’re not a fan of chickpeas, white beans or lentils can work as a good alternative.
Sun-dried Tomatoes: They add a rich flavor. If unavailable, try using fresh tomatoes or even roasted red peppers, which bring a different but delicious taste.
Coconut Milk: This adds creaminess to the dish. For a nut-free option, you can substitute with almond milk or use heavy cream if you’re okay with dairy.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is my go-to, but you can also use kale or Swiss chard. Just keep in mind that they might take a little longer to cook down!
What’s the Best Way to Sauté Garlic without Burning It?
Sautéing garlic is a crucial step to bring out flavor, but it’s easy to burn! The trick is to cook it on medium heat. It should be fragrant, not brown. Follow these tips:
- Add garlic after the oil is hot, but not smoking.
- Keep stirring to ensure even cooking.
- If it starts browning too fast, remove it from heat briefly.
Perfectly sautéed garlic brings a wonderful warmth to your dish!
How Do You Achieve a Creamy Sauce with Coconut Milk?
To get that rich, creamy consistency, slowly pour in the coconut milk after your spices have combined well with the other ingredients. Here’s how:
- Make sure your pan is hot enough to simmer the coconut milk, which helps it thicken.
- Let it simmer for about 5 minutes; don’t rush it! This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to become luscious.
This simple method helps create a beautiful sauce that clings to your chickpeas and veggies!
How to Make Marry Me Chickpeas – Creamy & Easy Meal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 ½ cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup coconut milk (or heavy cream for a richer taste)
- ½ cup vegetable broth or water
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Crusty bread or cooked rice, to serve
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Marry Me Chickpeas recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, making a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, simple, and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Olive Oil:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Remember, you want it hot enough to sauté, but not smoking!
2. Sauté Garlic and Chili Flakes:
Next, add the minced garlic and red chili flakes to the hot oil. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned—this is crucial to keep the flavor lovely and sweet.
3. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Now it’s time to toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook them for another 2 minutes, allowing their flavors to meld with the garlic.
4. Stir in Chickpeas and Spices:
Mix in the chickpeas, smoked paprika, and ground cumin. Stir everything together and let them cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally so they don’t stick.
5. Pour in Coconut Milk and Broth:
Slowly pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Mix well, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic happens!
6. Thicken the Sauce:
Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes. This will help the sauce thicken slightly and soak up all those lovely flavors.
7. Add Spinach:
Now, add the chopped spinach to the pan. Cook for just about 2 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and bright green.
8. Season to Taste:
Give it a taste, and don’t forget to season with salt and black pepper as you like! This makes it truly your own.
9. Garnish & Serve:
Take it off the heat and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if you’re using them. Serve warm with some crusty bread or over your choice of cooked rice for a satisfying meal.
Enjoy your creamy, spicy, and easy Marry Me Chickpeas! Everyone will be asking for the recipe!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Canned Chickpeas Instead of Dried?
Absolutely! Canned chickpeas are convenient and save time, which is perfect for a quick meal. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before using to remove excess sodium and preserve their taste.
Is There a Vegan Substitute for Coconut Milk?
Coconut milk is already vegan, but if you’re looking for alternatives, you can try almond milk or soy milk. For a creamier texture, opt for cashew cream or blended silken tofu, but keep in mind that this will change the flavor slightly.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Yes! If you love heat, feel free to increase the amount of red chili flakes or even add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the dish. Just taste as you go to ensure it’s exactly how you like it!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. If it has thickened, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up.
