Easy Iraqi Spinach Stew Recipe: A Comforting Middle Eastern Classic (2025)

Discover the comforting warmth of Iraqi Spinach Stew, a versatile dish that’s both nourishing and deeply satisfying. This traditional Middle Eastern recipe transforms simple ingredients like tender spinach, aromatic spices, and your choice of meat into a hearty, soul-warming meal that’s perfect for any season.

Whether you prefer it with succulent lamb, hearty beef, or as a vegetarian delight, this stew adapts beautifully to your taste. The magic lies in its flexibility – add chickpeas for extra protein, fresh dill for brightness, or even tomato paste for depth. What remains constant is the rich blend of turmeric, curry powder, and dried limes that creates an unmistakably authentic Iraqi flavor profile.

Essential Kitchen Tools

To prepare Iraqi spinach stew efficiently you need these basic kitchen tools:

• Large pot or Dutch oven (5-6 quart capacity)
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Large cooking spoon or wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander for draining spinach
• Medium mixing bowl
• Fine mesh strainer
• Garlic press
• Vegetable peeler
• Ladle for serving

Optional but helpful tools:

• Food processor for chopping vegetables
• Kitchen scale
• Large serving bowl
• Small bowls for prepped ingredients
• Kitchen twine for herb bundles
• Citrus juicer
• Can opener if using canned tomatoes

The most important tool is a heavy bottomed large pot or Dutch oven that distributes heat evenly. This prevents hot spots that could burn the stew’s delicate ingredients. A pot with a tight fitting lid helps trap moisture and develop rich flavors during simmering.

Your knife should be sharp enough to cleanly cut spinach without bruising the leaves. A dull blade can crush and damage the greens affecting both texture and appearance in the final dish.

Having proper measuring tools ensures you add the right ratios of spices and seasonings to achieve authentic Iraqi flavors. While experienced cooks may eyeball amounts measuring spoons help maintain consistency especially when learning the recipe.

Keep these tools clean organized and easily accessible before starting. This makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable when preparing Iraqi spinach stew.

Ingredients

Here are the essential ingredients you need to prepare authentic Iraqi spinach stew divided into two main components.

For The Stew Base

• 1 medium onion finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or cooking oil
• 1/2 bunch fresh or frozen dill
• 1 dried lime
• 1 tablespoon ground dried lime
• 1 bag frozen spinach (defrosted)
• 240g or 1 can chickpeas (or red kidney beans)
• Salt to taste
• 1-2 cups water or broth (if needed)

Note: All measurements are for 4-6 servings. Adjust quantities based on your preferred serving size.

For optimal results use fresh ingredients when possible. The frozen spinach should be fully defrosted before cooking. You can substitute chickpeas with red kidney beans based on preference or availability.

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create an authentic Iraqi spinach stew with perfect consistency and flavor.

Preparing The Spinach

If using fresh spinach chop it finely on a clean cutting board. For frozen spinach slightly defrost it before cooking. Remove any tough stems and arrange the spinach in manageable portions. You’ll need approximately one 16-ounce bag of frozen spinach or 2 pounds of fresh spinach to yield 4-6 servings. Rinse fresh spinach thoroughly under cold water to remove dirt and grit.

Making The Stew Base

Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pot over high heat. Add the finely chopped onion to the hot oil and sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent. Add fresh or frozen dill and continue cooking for 1 minute while stirring. Drop in the dried lime and ground dried lime powder. Stir continuously to prevent the onions from burning and to help release the aromatic flavors of the spices.

Combining And Simmering

Add the prepared spinach to the pot and stir to combine with the onion mixture. Pour in 1-2 cups of water or broth depending on desired consistency. Add the chickpeas or kidney beans to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes stirring occasionally until the spinach is tender and the flavors have melded together. Season with salt to taste. The stew should have a rich green color and slightly thick consistency when done.

Serving Suggestions

Iraqi spinach stew shines as a complete meal when paired with traditional accompaniments. The combination of the hearty stew with specific sides creates an authentic dining experience.

Traditional Accompaniments

Serve your Iraqi spinach stew with white rice as the primary accompaniment. Add a fresh Middle Eastern salad featuring crisp vegetables like tomatoes cucumbers and onions dressed with olive oil and lemon juice. For extra flavor include pickled vegetables or turnips on the side. A basket of warm Iraqi flatbread helps soak up the flavorful stew broth making every bite count. Consider adding a dollop of plain yogurt on top of the stew for creaminess and tang.

Rice Preparation

Start with high-quality long-grain white rice rinsed until the water runs clear. Use a 2:1 ratio of water to rice along with a pinch of salt and a tablespoon of butter or olive oil. Bring the water to a boil then reduce heat to low cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes until tender. For authentic Iraqi-style rice add vermicelli noodles toasted in butter before adding the rice. Let the rice rest covered for 10 minutes after cooking then fluff with a fork before serving with your spinach stew. Place a generous portion of rice on each plate and ladle the hot stew over it allowing the rice to absorb the savory broth.

Storage And Reheating

Proper Storage Methods

Store your Iraqi spinach stew properly to maintain its fresh taste and texture. Let the stew cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator where it stays fresh for up to 4 days.

Freezing Instructions

For longer storage freeze your spinach stew in a freezer safe container. The stew maintains its quality in the freezer for up to 2 months. Label your container with the date to track freshness.

Storage Method	Duration	Temperature
Refrigeration	4 days	40°F/4°C
Freezer	2 months	0°F/-18°C

Reheating Guidelines

Stovetop Method

• Place the stew in a pot over low to medium heat
• Stir occasionally to ensure even warming
• Add 1-2 tablespoons of water if the stew appears too thick
• Heat until it reaches your desired temperature

Microwave Method

• Transfer a portion to a microwave safe bowl
• Cover with a microwave safe lid or plate
• Heat in 1-minute intervals stirring between each
• Add water if needed to adjust consistency

Thawing Instructions

If using frozen stew transfer it to the refrigerator the night before use. Allow 8-12 hours for complete thawing. Once thawed use the stew within 24 hours and do not refreeze.

• Keep the stew in portions for easier reheating
• Use glass containers to prevent staining
• Avoid metal containers which may react with acidic ingredients
• Check for any off odors or appearance before reheating

Tips For Perfect Iraqi Spinach Stew

Ingredient Preparation

• Thaw frozen spinach completely before cooking
• Pierce dried limes with a fork to release more flavor
• Chop onions finely for better texture
• Crush garlic cloves instead of mincing for stronger flavor
• If using meat choose cuts with some fat for richer flavor

Cooking Techniques

• Sear meat thoroughly on all sides before adding other ingredients
• Add boiled water instead of cold for better temperature control
• Maintain medium-low heat during simmering
• Cover the pot during cooking to retain moisture
• Allow 90 minutes for meat to become tender before adding spinach

Seasoning Balance

• Add salt gradually throughout cooking
• Use turmeric and curry powder at the beginning with onions
• Balance the tartness of dried limes with proper seasoning
• Taste and adjust seasonings before final 30-minute simmer

Texture Management

• Monitor liquid levels during cooking
• Keep stew consistency medium-thick
• Add chickpeas during final 30 minutes to maintain texture
• Stir occasionally to prevent sticking

Optional Enhancements

• Add dill for fresh herb flavor
• Include chickpeas for extra protein
• Consider tomato paste for deeper flavor
• Adjust spice levels to preference

• Let stew rest 10 minutes before serving
• Serve hot over white rice
• Garnish with fresh herbs if desired
• Keep extra broth handy for preferred consistency

• Skip meat searing step
• Sauté vegetables first
• Reduce cooking time to 45 minutes
• Double chickpeas for protein content

Recipe Notes And Variations

Key Ingredient Substitutions

• Replace frozen spinach with 2 pounds fresh spinach leaves washed and chopped
• Swap chickpeas with red kidney beans for a different texture
• Use fresh dill instead of frozen (1/2 cup fresh equals 2 tablespoons frozen)
• If dried limes aren’t available substitute with 2 tablespoons lemon juice plus 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Regional Variations

You can adapt this Iraqi spinach stew to match different regional preferences:

• Baghdad Style: Add small meatballs seasoned with turmeric and black pepper
• Northern Iraqi: Include diced potatoes and extra garlic
• Southern Style: Mix in okra during the last 10 minutes of cooking
• Modern Twist: Add a can of diced tomatoes for extra depth

Dietary Modifications

Make this stew suitable for various dietary needs:

• Vegan: Skip any meat additions focus on chickpeas for protein
• Low-Sodium: Reduce salt use herbs like parsley and mint for flavor
• Gluten-Free: gluten-free just verify your spice brands
• Low-Carb: Skip the chickpeas double the spinach amount

Serving Suggestions

Enhance your Iraqi spinach stew experience with these accompaniments:

• Serve over vermicelli rice
• Add a dollop of plain yogurt
• Pair with fresh Iraqi flatbread
• Include pickled vegetables on the side
• Garnish with fresh herbs like mint or parsley

Time-Saving Tips

• Prep vegetables in advance
• Use pre-minced garlic
• Keep frozen dill and spinach on hand
• Cook chickpeas in large batches freeze portions
• Store ground dried lime in an airtight container
• For thicker stew cook uncovered during final 10 minutes
• Add more liquid if too thick
• Mash some chickpeas to thicken
• Simmer longer for more concentrated flavors

Cooking Time Variations	Result
15 minutes	Light brothy texture
25 minutes	Medium consistency
35 minutes	Thick hearty stew

Conclusion

Iraqi Spinach Stew is your gateway to authentic Middle Eastern comfort food right in your kitchen. With its aromatic blend of spices flexible ingredient options and straightforward preparation method you’ll master this traditional dish in no time.

Whether you choose to follow the classic recipe or adapt it to your dietary needs this hearty stew will become a cherished addition to your meal rotation. The combination of tender spinach fragrant spices and your choice of protein creates a nourishing meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

With proper storage techniques and the right accompaniments you’ll enjoy this beloved Iraqi dish to its fullest. So gather your ingredients fire up your stove and get ready to experience the warmth and comfort of this timeless recipe.