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Creamy Chickpea and Spinach Stew with Coconut Milk
Original recipe: 4 servings · Prep: 10 min · Cook: 20 min · Total: 30 min
By TinyTummyTreats Editorial TeamPublished Apr 17, 2026 | Updated May 11, 2026
Indian-Inspired
30 mins
easy-to-makevegetable-basedsoft-textureone-potquick-prepbalanced-nutritionsuitable-for-12-monthsbudget-friendlyquick & easylunchbox-friendlyfinger-food-friendlyseasonalwhole-grainsgluten-freetoddler breakfastlunchbox ideas
Creamy Chickpea and Spinach Stew with Coconut Milk with measured ingredients, 30-minute timing, 4-serving yield, and step-by-step instructions for toddler meals, snacks, and family cooking guidance.
Prep
10 min
Cook
20 min
Total
30 min
Servings
4
Difficulty
easy
Cuisine
Indian-Inspired
Ingredients
Servings
4
- 1 1/2 cups cooked chickpeas
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup grated carrot
- 1 cup cooked quinoa or whole grain rice
- 1/2 tsp mild curry powder
- 1/4 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tbsp olive oil or mild vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
-
Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
-
Add the finely chopped onion and grated carrot. Sauté gently for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until the onion becomes translucent and the carrot softens.
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Stir in the mild curry powder and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, ensuring spices are well distributed.
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Add the cooked chickpeas and stir to coat with the spices.
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Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth, stirring gently to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
-
Add the chopped spinach and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the spinach wilts and softens.
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If using, stir in the cooked quinoa or whole grain rice for added whole grains and texture.
-
Check consistency; add up to 1/2 cup water if stew is too thick for your toddler's preference.
-
Simmer on low for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until everything is heated through and creamy.
-
Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving to toddlers. The stew can be spoon-fed or softened further to serve as finger-food-friendly bites.
-
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze in toddler-sized portions for easy reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make Creamy Chickpea and Spinach Stew with Coconut Milk ahead?
- Yes. Prepare the recipe ahead, cool it completely, and store portions airtight so they are ready for quick toddler snacks or meals.
- How do I keep the texture toddler-friendly?
- Keep pieces or spoonfuls small, avoid overcooking, and serve with a soft side if the texture feels dry or sticky for your child's chewing stage.
- Can ingredients be swapped for allergies?
- Yes. Use safe substitutes for your child's needs and check labels for common cross-contact risks before serving.
- What should I serve with it?
- Pair it with a protein, soft fruit, or cooked vegetable to make the snack or meal more balanced for little appetites.
Ingredient Replacements
- cups cooked chickpeas: Swap with a toddler-safe alternative that keeps a similar moisture level and soft bite, then adjust water or cook time a little if the mixture feels dry or loose.
- cups fresh spinach: Swap with a toddler-safe alternative that keeps a similar moisture level and soft bite, then adjust water or cook time a little if the mixture feels dry or loose.
- cup coconut milk: Swap with a toddler-safe alternative that keeps a similar moisture level and soft bite, then adjust water or cook time a little if the mixture feels dry or loose.
- cup vegetable broth: Swap with a toddler-safe alternative that keeps a similar moisture level and soft bite, then adjust water or cook time a little if the mixture feels dry or loose.
- cup finely chopped onion: Swap with a toddler-safe alternative that keeps a similar moisture level and soft bite, then adjust water or cook time a little if the mixture feels dry or loose.
Storage
Cool Creamy Chickpea and Spinach Stew with Coconut Milk completely, then store portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freeze extras when practical, thaw before serving, and reheat gently only when a warmer, softer bite is helpful.
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