Delightful Chickpea Soup Recipe – Easy DIY Step-By-Step Guide

Discover a world of flavors hidden within the humble chickpea in our upcoming exploration of classic chickpea soup recipe.

This hearty, nourishing dish is steeped in tradition. It spans diverse cultures, each with its unique spin on this universally loved comfort food. 

Whether it’s the comforting, warm embrace of a winter evening or the lighter, zestier versions favored in warmer months, chickpea soup is a versatile culinary hero that deserves its moment in the limelight. 

Dive into a pot simmering with luscious chickpeas, aromatic herbs, and soul-warming spices, and join us on this gastronomic journey.

You’ll uncover the artistry that goes into creating the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Demystify the process of preparing this soup at home, and learn to master a recipe passed down through generations. 

We promise that chickpea soup will become an irresistible staple in your kitchen after this culinary adventure. Stay tuned for the grand reveal of the chickpea soup recipe that will have your taste buds dancing joyfully!

What Is Chickpea Soup?

Chickpea soup is made primarily with chickpeas, garbanzo beans, and other ingredients like onions, carrots, garlic, and herbs. The recipe and style of this soup can vary widely based on the region or culture.

Still, it typically involves simmering chickpeas until tender, then blending or mashing some or all of them to achieve a thicker consistency.

Chickpeas, high in protein and fiber, make this soup hearty and healthy. This dish is a comforting, warm meal, especially during colder months.

In addition to the base ingredients, many recipes add further layers of complexity by including ingredients like ham, chorizo, tomatoes, or spices like cumin and turmeric. 

Regardless of the version, chickpea soup is valued for its nourishing, satisfying qualities and ability to be a robust and flavorful meal in and of itself.

Can You Vary The Chickpea Soup With Other Ingredients?

Absolutely! One of the great things about chickpea soup is its versatility. Here are some ideas on how you can vary your chickpea soup:

• Proteins: You could add cooked chicken, ham, or even chunks of beef for a heartier soup. Tofu or tempeh will be great additions if you want to keep it vegetarian.
• Other Legumes: Mix in different types of beans like kidney beans, black beans, or lentils for added texture and nutritional value.
•  Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Root vegetables like sweet potatoes or parsnips can also add a nice touch.
• Greens: Near the end of cooking, stir in some kale, spinach, or Swiss chard for extra color and nutrition.
• Grains: Add cooked grains like rice, quinoa, or even small pasta shapes to make the soup more filling.
• Spices and Herbs: Experiment with different spice blends. Consider smoked paprika for a smoky twist, saffron for a luxurious touch, or harissa for some North African heat. Fresh herbs like dill, basil, or tarragon could also offer unique flavor profiles.
• Dairy: For a creamier soup, stir in some coconut milk, heavy cream, or a dollop of yogurt at the end of cooking.
• Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Try crispy roasted chickpeas, a sprinkle of cheese, a spoonful of pesto, a swirl of yogurt, or even some crumbled bacon.

Recipe Directions

Prepare The Soup Base

• Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add a dash of oil, the diced onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
• Add in the cumin, turmeric, garam masala, and cayenne pepper. Stir well and cook for another minute until the spices are well combined and fragrant.
• Add the lentils to the pot, stirring to coat them in the spice mixture. Pour enough water or vegetable broth to cover the lentils by about an inch. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
• Reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.

Prepare The Cream Topping

• In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms soft peaks. Stir in the chopped cilantro and set aside.

Finish The Soup

• Once the lentils are cooked, add the drained chickpeas and salt. Stir well and let the soup simmer for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
• Adjust the seasonings as needed. If you’d like a thicker soup, use a blender or immersion blender to puree a portion, then stir it back into the pot.

To Serve

• Ladle the soup into serving bowls. Dollop a spoonful of the cilantro cream topping on each bowl, and garnish with additional cilantro leaves if desired. Serve immediately.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

Variations and add-ons can give your chickpea soup a unique touch and cater to your tastes. Here are some ideas:

Variations

• Mediterranean-Style: Add some diced tomatoes, zucchini, and bell peppers, and season with rosemary and thyme. Also, include some kalamata olives for a salty punch.
• Indian-Style: Boost the spices with some curry powder and add diced potatoes and carrots. You should finish with a drizzle of cooling yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
• Southwestern-Style: Add corn, black beans, and diced green chiles, and season with chili powder and cumin. A squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving would brighten the flavors.
• Italian-Style: Include some diced tomatoes and cannellini beans and season with Italian seasoning. You can also add some cooked ditalini pasta to make it more filling.

Add-Ons

• Proteins: Add some cooked shredded chicken, diced ham, or crumbled sausage for a heartier soup. For a vegetarian option, tofu or tempeh can be included.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add kale, spinach, sweet potatoes, or even butternut squash for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Legumes/Grains: Add black beans, kidney beans, or even lentils. Cooked grains like quinoa, rice, or barley could fill the soup more.

Toppings

• Crunchy Elements: Croutons, toasted nuts or seeds, or crispy fried onions or garlic would add a delightful crunch.
• Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan, crumbled feta, or shredded cheddar can provide a creamy, savory note.
• Fresh Elements: A handful of fresh herbs, like parsley, cilantro, dill, or some sliced scallions or chives, would offer a new contrast.
• Creamy Elements: A dollop of yogurt, sour cream, or cilantro cream could add a tangy, creamy element to your soup.

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

Absolutely! A slow cooker and an instant pot are excellent tools for making chickpea soup. Here’s a brief guideline on how to adapt the recipe for each device:

Slow Cooker

• Start by sautéing the onion, garlic, and ginger in a pan over medium heat until the onion becomes translucent. This step can also be done directly in some slow cookers with a sauté function.
• Transfer the sautéed ingredients to the slow cooker, add the spices, and stir well. Then add the lentils, chickpeas, and enough water or broth to cover them.
• Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours or until the lentils are tender. 
• Stir in the salt and adjust the seasonings as needed before serving. 
• Serve hot, garnished with cilantro and your chosen toppings.

Instant Pot

• Using the sauté function, cook the onion, garlic, and ginger directly in the Instant Pot until the onion is translucent.
• Add the spices and stir well. Then add the lentils, chickpeas, and enough water or broth to cover them.
• Lock the lid in place and set the valve to the sealing position. Cook on high pressure for about 15-20 minutes.

• Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully turn the valve to the venting position to release any remaining pressure.
• Stir in the salt and adjust the seasonings as needed before serving. 
• Serve hot, garnished with cilantro and your chosen toppings.

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

Yes, you can certainly use store-bought broth in your chickpea soup, and many cooks do for convenience.

When selecting a store-bought broth, look for low-sodium versions to control your soup’s salt content better. It’s also worth reading the ingredient list to avoid broths with many artificial additives or preservatives. 

If you have the time and resources, homemade broth can elevate your soup to the next level.

Homemade Broth often has a depth of flavor that’s hard to match with store-bought versions. Plus, when you make your own, you have full control over the ingredients that go into it. 

How To Serve?

 Serving chickpea soup at its best involves a few thoughtful steps:

• Temperature: Serve the soup hot. This enhances both the flavor and the comforting quality of the dish. If it’s cooled down, quickly reheat it on the stove.
• Presentation: Ladle the soup into a clean, warm bowl. A warm bowl helps maintain the soup’s temperature. 
• Garnish: Enhance the visual appeal of the soup with some garnish. A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro (coriander) adds color contrast. A dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil can add a touch of creaminess and shine. Even a few whole chickpeas placed on top can enhance the presentation.
• Sides: Pair the soup with fresh, crusty bread or warm pita for dipping. This complements the texture and taste and makes the meal more satisfying.
• Utensils: Provide a large, deep spoon for easy eating. Provide a small plate and a butter knife if you’re serving bread.
• Atmosphere: Lastly, the dining environment also contributes to the overall experience. A clean, nicely set table with a comfortable chair can make even a simple bowl of soup feel like a gourmet experience.

Perfect Side Dishes

• Sandwiches: A Mediterranean-inspired sandwich with hummus, cucumber, tomatoes, and feta can beautifully complement the flavors of chickpea soup. A simple grilled cheese or a rustic vegetable panini could also be delightful.
• Salads: A crisp Greek salad with feta cheese, olives, and a tangy vinaigrette would provide a refreshing contrast. Alternatively, a cucumber and tomato salad with a light dressing or a hearty grain salad with bulgur or quinoa could be excellent choices.
• First Course Options: If you’re serving the soup as a main course, consider a first course that’s light and flavorful. A plate of mixed olives and feta, or a simple bruschetta with fresh tomatoes and basil, could whet the appetite without being too filling.
• Bread: A side of crusty bread or warm pita bread would be a perfect accompaniment to help scoop up every last bit of the soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted Mediterranean vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, or even a mix of root vegetables can enhance the meal’s nutritious value and add a delicious flavor.

Storage And Make Ahead

• Storage: Store leftover chickpea soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the soup as directed, but do not add any garnishes or toppings. Let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the soup over medium heat, adding additional broth or water as needed to reach the desired consistency. Top with fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

What Can I Do With The Leftovers?

Leftover chickpea soup can be repurposed in several creative ways:

• Chickpea Pasta Sauce: Blend the soup until smooth and use it as a rich, protein-packed sauce for pasta. Add some extra herbs or spices to match your pasta dish.
• Grain Bowl Base: Use the soup as a flavorful base for a grain bowl. Add a serving of quinoa or rice, and top with fresh vegetables, a protein of choice, and a drizzle of dressing.
• Stuffed Vegetables: Blend the soup and use it as a stuffing for bell peppers or zucchini boats. Top with cheese and bake until the vegetables are tender and the cheese is melted.
• Dip or Spread: Blend the soup into a smooth puree and use it as a dip for vegetables or a spread on sandwiches.
• Bread Soup (Ribollita): If you have stale bread, you can make an Italian-style Ribollita. Tear the bread into pieces and add it to the reheated soup. Cook until the bread has absorbed the soup and the flavors have melded together.

Nutrition Table