Nutritious Chickpea Cabbage Soup – A Must Try

Amid the tapestry of traditional recipes, a symphony of flavors exists where simplicity harmoniously converges with nourishment. Such is the tale of the Chickpea Cabbage Soup. This soup, a relic from grandma’s kitchen, embodies the cozy embrace of memories and the warmth of gathered tales. 

Envisage the gentle simmer of tender chickpeas, harmonizing with the delicate lacing of cabbage, crafting a bowl full of wholesome goodness. Each spoonful is an echo of culinary heritage, whispering tales of rustic kitchens and age-old wisdom. 

What Is Chickpea Cabbage Soup?

Chickpea Cabbage Soup is a hearty, nourishing concoction that marries the nutty richness of chickpeas with the subtle crunch of cabbage. This soup is often simmered in a flavorful broth infused with aromatic herbs and spices; this soup promises comfort and nutrition. 

The creamy chickpeas complement the tender strands of cabbage, making each spoonful a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Beyond its taste, this soup is a testament to wholesome eating, serving warmth in a bowl for souls seeking sustenance and solace.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients? 

Chickpea Cabbage Soup can be modified to fit a variety of dietary requirements. Here’s how you can adapt the recipe for different diets:

Keto

• Skip Brown Rice: To reduce carbs, omit the brown rice.
• Add More Veggies: Increase low-carb vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Fats: Incorporate more healthy fats, like avocado oil or coconut oil, and consider adding diced avocado before serving.

Paleo

• Skip Brown Rice: Grains aren’t included in the paleo diet.
• Legumes: Omit chickpeas as legumes aren’t paleo-friendly. You can substitute it with diced chicken or turkey for protein.
• Bone Broth: Consider using bone broth instead of vegetable broth for added nutrients.

Gluten-Free

• The basic recipe is naturally gluten-free, but ensure that any store-bought broths or seasonings you use don’t contain gluten or are processed in a facility with gluten.

Whole30

• Skip Brown Rice: Whole30 eliminates grains.
• Legumes: Omit chickpeas as they aren’t allowed.
• No Sugar: Ensure that the vegetable broth or any added seasonings don’t contain sugars or artificial additives.

Vegetarian

• The base recipe is already vegetarian. Ensure that the vegetable broth is genuinely vegetarian (some broths use animal derivatives).

Vegan

• The basic recipe is vegan. Just double-check the vegetable broth for any hidden non-vegan ingredients.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

Variations

• Opt for chicken or bone broth for a richer flavor profile.
• Use quinoa or barley instead of brown rice for a varied texture.
• Incorporate spinach or kale for added greenery and nutrients.
• Choose sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a hint of sweetness.

Add-Ons

• Throw in diced tomatoes for a tangy note.
• Add red or green bell peppers for a mild crunch.
• Incorporate zucchini or green beans during the last 15 minutes of simmering.
• Boost protein with tofu or tempeh for vegetarian versions.
• Stir in shredded chicken or turkey for a meaty twist.

Toppings

• Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
• Drizzle with a touch of olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon just before serving.

Can I Make Chickpea Cabbage Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

You can prepare Chickpea Cabbage Soup in both a slow cooker and an Instant Pot. Here’s how:

Slow Cooker

• Sautéing (optional but recommended): Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a skillet. Add the celery, carrots, and onion and sauté until softened. Add garlic and sauté for an additional 2 minutes. This step enhances the flavors but can be skipped if you’re in a hurry.
• Combining Ingredients: Transfer the sautéed veggies to the slow cooker. Add the cabbage, turmeric, paprika, rice, chickpeas, salt, pepper, vegetable broth, and 1 cup of water.
• Cooking: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Check the rice and vegetables to ensure they’re tender.
• Finishing Touches: Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice before serving.

Instant Pot

• Sautéing: Using the “Sauté” function, heat the olive oil in the Instant Pot. Add the celery, carrots, and onion. Sauté until the vegetables are softened. Add the garlic and continue to sauté for another 2 minutes.
• Adding Ingredients: Turn off the “Sauté” function. Add the cabbage, turmeric, paprika, rice, chickpeas, salt, pepper, vegetable broth, and 1 cup of water to the pot. Give everything a good stir.
• Cooking: Secure the lid and set the valve to “Sealing.” Cook on manual high pressure for 15 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quickly release any remaining pressure.
• Finishing Touches: Open the lid, stir in the lemon juice, and serve.

Can I Use Store Bought Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

Both store-bought broth and homemade broth can be used in cooking, and each has its advantages and considerations:

Store-Bought Broth

Advantages

• Convenience: It’s quick and easy, especially when you’re short on time.
• Consistency: Store-bought broths generally have a consistent flavor profile.
• Variety: You can find various flavors and types, including low-sodium, organic, bone broths, and broths catering to specific dietary preferences.

Homemade Broth

Advantages

• Flavor Control: You have complete control over the ingredients, allowing you to adjust flavors to your preference.
• No Additives: Homemade broth is free from artificial preservatives and flavors.
• Cost-effective: You can use leftover bones, vegetable scraps, and herbs, reducing waste and saving money.

How To Serve ?

Serving Chickpea Cabbage Soup can be a delightful experience when done with attention to presentation and complementary pairings. Here’s how to serve it best:

• Bowl Choice: Use deep, wide bowls to serve the soup. This allows for the ingredients to be spread out, showcasing the vibrant colors of the vegetables.
• Garnish: Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs like parsley, cilantro, or chives. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a burst of color. A slice of lemon or a dollop of yogurt can also be a refreshing addition.
• Bread on the Side: Serve with a slice of rustic whole-grain bread or a crusty baguette. The bread can be toasted and rubbed with a garlic clove for an added layer of flavor.
• Oil Drizzle: For an added touch of richness and a glossy finish, drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil or even a flavored oil, like chili or garlic oil, over the soup before serving.
• Accompaniments: A side of mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette can complement the hearty nature of the soup.
• Texture: Add a sprinkle of toasted seeds (like pumpkin or sunflower seeds) or crushed nuts (like walnuts or almonds) for a crunchy contrast.
• Cheese: If you need to stick to a vegan version, grated Parmesan or crumbled feta can be a delightful addition.

Perfect Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread like baguette, sourdough, or ciabatta is perfect for soaking up the soup’s broth.
• Quinoa Salad: Light and fluffy, a chilled quinoa salad mixed with fresh veggies, lemon zest, and herbs can offer a refreshing contrast.
• Roasted Veggies: Seasonal vegetables roasted with olive oil, rosemary, and garlic can add a hearty touch to the meal.
• Couscous: Light and fluffy, couscous seasoned with a hint of lemon and mixed with chopped fresh herbs can be a delightful grain side.
• Hummus and Pita: Smooth hummus served with warm pita slices or raw vegetables is an excellent accompaniment that echoes the chickpea ingredient in the soup.

Storage & Make Ahead

• Refrigeration: Store leftover Chickpea Cabbage Soup in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors meld over time, enhancing the taste.
• Freezing: Freeze the soup in portioned containers for up to 3 months. However, cabbage may have a different texture upon thawing.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the soup base in advance, excluding cabbage, to prevent it from becoming mushy. Refrigerate the base for up to 24 hours. Add cabbage when reheating for a crisp texture.
• Fresh Additions: Include fresh herbs, lemon juice, or grated cheese just before serving to maintain their vibrancy and flavors.
• Overnight Melding: Letting the soup sit in the refrigerator overnight allows the ingredients to mingle, intensifying the taste upon reheating.

What Can We Do With Leftovers? 

Making the Most of Leftover Chickpea Cabbage Soup:

• Soup Bowls: Hollow out crusty bread rolls, fill with reheated soup and serve.
• Pasta Base: Mix with cooked pasta for a hearty, vegetable-packed dish.
• Casserole Foundation: Combine with shredded cheese, top with breadcrumbs, and bake until golden.
• Stuffed Vegetables: Use as a filling for bell peppers or tomatoes, then bake.
• Grain Mix-in: Stir into cooked quinoa, bulgur, or rice for added flavor and texture.
• Frittata: Incorporate into an egg frittata or scramble for a unique breakfast twist.
• Taco Filling: Use as a base for vegetarian tacos, adding toppings like avocado and salsa.

TIPS

• Chickpea Crunch: Roast chickpeas with your favorite spices separately and sprinkle them on top just before serving for a delightful crunchy texture.
• Cabbage Ribbons: Shred cabbage into thin ribbons for a visually appealing and tender texture, adding a unique twist to the soup.
• Moroccan Magic: Infuse Moroccan flavors by adding a blend of cumin, coriander, and a hint of cinnamon, creating a fragrant and exotic taste.
• Citrus Burst: Squeeze fresh lime or lemon juice just before serving to brighten up the flavors and add a refreshing citrusy zing.
• Coconut Creaminess: Replace some of the broth with coconut milk for a luscious, creamy consistency, adding a tropical undertone.
• Spiced Pumpkin Seeds: Toast pumpkin seeds with cayenne pepper for a spicy kick, offering a contrast to the soup’s richness.
• Herb Garden Fusion: Stir in a mix of fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, and dill to bring a garden-fresh aroma and diverse flavor profile.
• Parmesan Perfection: Finish the soup with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a savory depth that complements the chickpeas and cabbage.
• Smoky Paprika Swirl: Add a swirl of smoked paprika-infused olive oil for a subtle smokiness that enhances the overall taste experience.
• Ginger Zest: Grate fresh ginger into the soup for a warming and invigorating element, marrying well with the hearty chickpeas and cabbage.

Nutrition Table