Skip to main content

Spinach with Chickpeas and Fried Eggs

This Mediterranean-inspired spinach with chickpeas and fried eggs is a nourishing vegetarian dish that brings warmth and depth to the dinner table. Inspired by classic Spanish tapas, the recipe combines earthy pulses with vibrant greens, all brought together in a rich tomato and cumin-scented broth. The addition of smoked paprika provides a subtle wood-fired flavour that perfectly complements the creamy texture of the partially mashed chickpeas.

Ideal for a wholesome midweek meal, this one-pot stew is both budget-friendly and naturally high in protein and fibre. The crowning glory is a crispy-edged fried egg, basted in olive oil until the white is lacy and the yolk remains rich and runny. Serve it in deep bowls with a side of crusty sourdough bread to soak up the savoury juices for a truly satisfying homemade dinner.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Spinach with Chickpeas and Fried Eggs

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided, plus more

  • 4 medium garlic cloves, thinly sliced, divided

  • 8 cups spinach, coarsely chopped

  • Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

  • 140g chopped onion

  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

  • 1/4 teaspoons smoked paprika

  • 2 425g cans chickpeas, rinsed

  • 5 canned whole tomatoes, crushed

  • 725ml (or more) vegetable broth

  • 4 large eggs

  • Ingredient info: Smoked paprika is available at most supermarkets.

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large heavy pot over medium heat. When oil begins to shimmer, add 1 garlic clove. Stir until beginning to turn golden brown, 1-2 minutes. Add spinach to pot. Toss to coat; season with salt and pepper. Cook until spinach is wilted but still bright green, 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a medium bowl; set aside. Wipe out pot.

Heat 2 tablespoons oil in same pot over medium heat. When oil begins to shimmer, add onion and 3 garlic cloves. Cook, stirring often, until onion is softened, 3-4 minutes.

Add cumin and paprika; stir until cumin is toasted and fragrant, 1-2 minutes. Add chickpeas and tomatoes; stir to coat. Cook until tomatoes start to caramelize and chickpeas begin to brown, 8-10 minutes. Add 725ml broth; bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from bottom of pan. Reduce heat to medium; simmer, occasionally mashing some chickpeas with the back of a spoon or a potato masher, until sauce is thickened, 15-20 minutes. Fold in spinach; simmer for flavours to meld, adding more broth by 1/4-cupfuls if too thick, 8ñ10 minutes.

Pour oil into a large heavy skillet to a depth of 1/8" (about 60ml ). Heat until oil begins to shimmer. Crack 2 eggs into hot oil, spacing apart. Using a large spoon, carefully baste whites (not yolks) with oil until whites are set and edges are crunchy, lacy, and golden brown, 2-3 minutes (do not turn). Season eggs with salt and pepper. Transfer to a plate and repeat with remaining 2 eggs.

Spoon chickpea stew into bowls and top each with a fried egg.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.