Spinach stew with lamb and chickpeas

Spinach Stew with Lamb and Chickpeas – A Fall Delicacy

Every autumn, nature offers us a rich palette of ingredients to delight our senses. One of the most appreciated vegetables during this season is spinach, a green-leaved plant packed with nutrients and health benefits. This spinach stew recipe with lamb and chickpeas is perfect for enjoying the fresh taste of spinach and the exquisite aroma of lamb meat.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 600 g lamb meat with bone (preferably from the back)
- 600 g fresh spinach
- 1 medium onion
- 2-3 bay leaves
- 5-6 cardamom pods
- 50 ml olive oil
- 7-8 cloves of garlic
- 1 can of cooked chickpeas (about 400 g)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Side dish: 400 g rice

Benefits of Spinach

Spinach is truly a miraculous vegetable. It is rich in iron, calcium, magnesium, folic acid, and vitamins A, C, and K. These nutrients not only contribute to improving health but also help enhance cognitive functions and vision. Additionally, spinach contains antioxidants that may help combat certain types of cancer. Therefore, adding spinach to our diet is not only delicious but also extremely beneficial.

Preparing the Stew

Step 1: Prepare the meat
Start by cleaning the lamb meat of membranes, then wash it well and cut it into suitable-sized pieces. Using a pressure cooker is an excellent choice as it will reduce cooking time. Heat the olive oil in the pressure cooker, then add the finely chopped onion and half of the minced garlic.

Step 2: Brown the meat
Once the onion becomes translucent, add the pieces of lamb and let them brown for about 5 minutes until they are nicely colored. Then, add the bay leaves, cardamom pods, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Boil the meat
Cover the meat with warm water (about 1.5 liters) so that it is well covered. Close the pot and let it boil for 15 minutes after it starts steaming. This step is essential for obtaining tender and juicy meat.

Step 4: Prepare the spinach
Meanwhile, clean the spinach and wash it in several waters. Leave it to drain in a colander, then chop it into large pieces. When the meat is ready, carefully open the pot and remove the meat to another pot, preserving the broth obtained.

Step 5: Combine the ingredients
Strain the meat broth to remove any impurities, then pour the broth over the meat. If you think there is too much broth, add it gradually. Now, add the spinach to the pot. Simmer on low heat to preserve the properties of the spinach for about 5 minutes.

Step 6: Add the chickpeas
Once the spinach has wilted, add the drained chickpeas and mix well. In a separate pan, sauté the remaining garlic, sliced, until golden. When the garlic is ready, add it to the pot with spinach and meat.

Step 7: Finish the dish
If you prefer a saucier dish, feel free to add more broth. Let the stew simmer for a few minutes so that the flavors combine. Taste and add salt and pepper to your liking.

Serving and Recommendations

Spinach stew with lamb and chickpeas is usually served with a side of white rice or fresh bread. If you wish, you can add a few slices of lemon to enhance the flavor and add a touch of freshness. Hot peppers can be an excellent accompaniment for those who prefer a spicier taste.

Variations and Tips

- Meat variations: If you don’t have lamb, you can use chicken or beef. Make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of meat chosen.
- Frozen spinach: If you can’t find fresh spinach, you can use frozen spinach. Make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the dish.
- Chickpeas: If you prefer, you can use dried chickpeas, which need to be boiled before use.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with other vegetables, such as broccoli or zucchini, to vary the taste of the dish.

2. How can I make the dish spicier?
Add fresh chili peppers or chili flakes during cooking to intensify the flavors.

3. What is the caloric value of this dish?
A serving of spinach stew with lamb and chickpeas has about 400-500 kcal, depending on the amount of oil and the chosen side dish.

Conclusion

Spinach stew with lamb and chickpeas is a recipe that combines health with flavor. It is a perfect choice for autumn meals, bringing warmth and comfort in every bite. So, don’t hesitate to try this simple and delicious recipe, ideal for sharing with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!