Greek Chickpea Soup
A delightful and comforting soup brimming with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, perfect for any time of the year.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup dried chickpeas (or 2 cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed) If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing.
- 1 medium onion, diced Provides a flavor base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances overall flavor.
- 2 medium carrots, diced Adds sweetness.
- 2 stalks celery, diced Adds crunch and flavor.
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juices Adds acidity and depth.
- 5 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth) For the soup base.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin Adds warmth and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- to taste Salt and black pepper
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped For added nutrition.
- 1 Juice of lemon Adds brightness.
- to garnish Fresh parsley, chopped For presentation.
Instructions
Preparation
- Soak the chickpeas: If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight in plenty of water. Rinse and drain them in the morning.
- Sauté the base: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add vegetables: Incorporate the minced garlic, diced carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Combine main ingredients: Add the soaked (or canned) chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Stir in ground cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer. If using dried chickpeas, simmer for 30-40 minutes. If using canned chickpeas, simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Add greens: Stir in the chopped spinach or kale shortly before serving, cooking for about 5 minutes until wilted.
- Finish with lemon: Squeeze in lemon juice and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Notes
For deeper flavor, add a bay leaf during simmering and remove before serving. For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding greens.