Garlic Chickpea Soup

Why Make This Recipe

Garlic Chickpea Soup is a delightful dish that combines delicious flavors with healthy ingredients. It is warm, filling, and perfect for any time of the year. This soup is not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients. The chickpeas provide plant-based protein, while the garlic and spices add great taste. It’s a fantastic option for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner.

How to Make Garlic Chickpea Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

1. In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin and paprika and cook for an additional 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 15-20 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

How to Serve Garlic Chickpea Soup

This soup is best served hot, allowing the aromatic flavors to shine. You can serve it with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh parsley to add a pop of color and flavor before serving. Enjoy it on a chilly day or anytime you’re in need of comfort food!

How to Store Garlic Chickpea Soup

If you have leftovers, you can store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also freeze the soup for longer storage. Just make sure it’s cool before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Tips to Make Garlic Chickpea Soup

• For a creamier soup, use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup until smooth.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust the spices according to your taste; add more cumin for a stronger flavor.
• Experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different twist.

Variation

You can make this soup with different types of beans if you don’t have chickpeas. Kidney beans or black beans can work well too. Additionally, try adding some lemon juice for a bright, refreshing taste.

FAQs

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Yes, but you will need to soak and cook the dried chickpeas before adding them to the soup.

Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this Garlic Chickpea Soup is entirely plant-based and suitable for vegans.

Can I add meat to this soup?
Absolutely! You can add shredded chicken or sausage if you prefer a non-vegetarian version. Just cook the meat before adding the chickpeas and broth.