Indulge in the warmth of Moroccan tradition. This Chickpea Soup recipe from North Africa brings comfort to your table. It’s an aromatic delight, spiced with cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Every spoonful offers a rich blend of chickpeas, tomatoes, and fresh herbs.
Whether a chilly winter night or a breezy summer evening, it finds a place in any season. Explore this recipe. Discover the essence of Moroccan hospitality. With a balance of nutrition and taste, this soup invites you into a world of flavor. It’s not just a meal but an experience. Enjoy the journey, one bowl at a time.
What Is Moroccan Chickpea Soup?
Moroccan Chickpea Soup is a hearty and nutritious dish from North African cuisine. It combines chickpeas with tomatoes, onions, and spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric.
The ingredients meld together, creating a rich and flavorful broth. Often garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro, this soup is both a comforting meal and a delightful taste of Moroccan tradition. It’s suitable for vegetarians and offers a wholesome dining experience.
History Of Moroccan Chickpea Soup
Moroccan Chickpea Soup, known as Harira, has deep roots in North African culture. Originating as a Berber dish, it’s now a staple in Moroccan homes. Rich in spices like cumin and coriander, it reflects the region’s historic trade routes.
Often enjoyed during Ramadan, it represents more than food; it symbolizes hospitality and communal sharing. Over time, variations have evolved, yet the essence of this flavorful soup remains a cherished part of Moroccan culinary tradition.
Interesting Facts About The Moroccan Chickpea Soup
- Cultural Significance: It is often consumed to break the fast during Ramadan, symbolizing unity and tradition.
- Variations: Regional variations exist, using different spices and ingredients, reflecting local taste.
- Nutrition: Rich in protein and fiber, it’s a nutritious option for vegetarians and health-conscious eaters.
- Spice Route Influence: The cumin, coriander, and turmeric blend reveals connections to ancient trade routes.
- Serving Tradition: Typically garnished with fresh lemon wedges and cilantro, enhancing flavor and presentation.
What Makes The Moroccan Chickpea Soup Special?
- Unique Flavor Profile: Combining spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric creates a distinctive taste.
- Cultural Heritage: Rooted in Moroccan tradition, it symbolizes hospitality and communal sharing.
- Nutritional Benefits: Packed with chickpeas, tomatoes, and herbs, it offers a healthy and balanced meal.
- Versatility: Suitable for various diets, including vegetarian and vegan, appealing to diverse preferences.
- Seasonal Adaptability: Enjoyed in both cold winter months and breezy summer evenings.
Ingredients List
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Olive Oil | 1 tbsp. |
| Celery Stalk, finely chopped | 1 |
| Small Carrot, peeled & finely chopped | 1 |
| Medium Onion, finely chopped | 1 |
| Garlic Cloves, crushed | 2 |
| Chickpeas, rinsed and drained | 400g can |
| Chopped Tomatoes | 400g can |
| Ground Cumin | ½ tsp. |
| Ground Cinnamon | ½ tsp. |
| Ground Paprika | ½ tsp. |
| Cayenne Pepper | ½ tsp. |
| Vegetable Stock | 850ml |
| Fresh Mint Leaves, chopped (optional for garnish) | 10g |
Ingredient Tips
- Olive Oil: Choose extra-virgin for more flavor; it can be substituted with other cooking oils.
- Chickpeas: Fresh, soaked chickpeas taste richer, but canned is a quick alternative.
- Spices: Freshly ground spices enhance the flavor; adjust quantities for preferred heat levels.
- Vegetable Stock: Homemade stock adds depth; store-bought can be conveniently used.
- Mint: Optional for garnish; parsley or cilantro can add a fresh touch.
Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?
- Keto: Replace chickpeas with low-carb vegetables like cauliflower and use bone broth instead of vegetable stock.
- Paleo: Similar to Keto, ensure all ingredients are organic and unprocessed.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free; check the vegetable stock for hidden gluten.
- Whole30: Use fresh tomatoes instead of canned, and ensure the vegetable stock has no added sugars or preservatives.
- Vegetarian: This is already suitable for vegetarians; ensure the meat-free vegetable stock.
- Vegan: This recipe is also vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products.
Recipe Directions
- Sauté: Heat oil in a soup maker or saucepan. Add onion, garlic, celery, carrot; sauté 5 minutes.
- Transfer: Switch off the sauté function; transfer ingredients to the soup maker.
- Add Ingredients: Add all except mint; don’t exceed the MAX line; top to MIN line with hot water if needed.
- Cook: Use the chunky setting; lid on.
- Serve: Garnish with mint leaves (optional).
Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings
Variations
- Spices: Add saffron or cardamom for different flavor profiles.
- Protein: Include chicken or lamb for a non-vegetarian twist.
Add-Ons
- Grains: Quinoa or rice can add texture and heartiness.
- Vegetables: Spinach or kale can enhance nutritional value.
Toppings
- Herbs: Besides mint, parsley, cilantro, or dill can add freshness.
- Nuts: Almonds or pistachios provide a crunchy finish.
- Dairy: A dollop of yogurt or crumbled feta adds creaminess.
Scaling The Recipe
- Identify the Serving Size: Determine the current serving size of the recipe and the desired new serving size.
- Calculate the Scaling Factor: Divide the desired serving size by the current size. This will give you a scaling factor.
- Adjust Ingredients: Multiply each ingredient quantity by the scaling factor. For example, if you want to double the recipe, multiply all ingredient quantities by 2.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Cooking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the texture and consistency.
What Is Used For Garnishing?
As mentioned in the original recipe, fresh mint leaves are often used for garnishing Moroccan Chickpea Soup. Chopped mint adds a refreshing touch, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the soup.
Besides mint, herbs like parsley or cilantro enhance taste and visual appeal. Some cooks also add a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of paprika for a vibrant color contrast.
The choice of garnish can be adapted according to personal taste preferences, complementing the rich and aromatic flavors of this traditional Moroccan dish.
Can I Make Moroccan Chickpea Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?
- Slow Cooker
Sauté the onion, garlic, celery, and carrot in a pan, then transfer to the slow cooker. Add remaining ingredients except for mint and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Instant Pot
Use the sauté function for the vegetables, then add the remaining ingredients except mint. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, followed by a natural release.
Can I Use Store Bought Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?
- Store-Bought Broth
Convenient and readily available, it’s an excellent option for those short on time. To maintain the soup’s authenticity, look for a quality vegetable broth without added preservatives or artificial flavors.
- Homemade Broth
Creating your broth allows complete control over flavor and ingredients. You can craft a rich and tailored broth using fresh vegetables and herbs that complement the soup’s flavors.
Can I Use Different Types Of Meat/Fish/Pasta/Vegetables For The Soup?
- Meat: Chicken, lamb, or beef can add a rich protein source. Brown the meat before adding it to the soup.
- Fish: Shredded fish like cod or salmon can provide a seafood twist. Add it near the end of cooking to avoid overcooking.
- Pasta: Small pasta shapes like orzo or couscous can be added for extra heartiness.
- Vegetables: Spinach, kale, zucchini, or bell peppers can be used to enhance nutritional content and texture.
Success Tips-Tips And Tricks For Making The Recipe
Making soup is an art that can be perfected with some tips and tricks:
Prepping Tips
- Chop Uniformly: Ensuring vegetables are cut evenly helps them cook at the same rate.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices enhance the flavor profile.
- Soften Ingredients: First, sautéing vegetables like onions and garlic helps release their flavors.
Cooking Time Tips
- Low and Slow: Simmering soup gently prevents overcooking and melds flavors.
- Taste as You Go: Regular tasting helps you adjust seasoning throughout cooking.
- Consider Thickness: Cooking time can affect the consistency, so monitor to achieve your desired thickness.
Nutritional Values
Moroccan Chickpea Soup offers an array of nutritional benefits. Rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, it supports a healthy diet. The combination of chickpeas, vegetables, and spices provides a wholesome meal that aligns with various wellness goals.
What Are The Total Calories In The Moroccan Chickpea Soup?
Considering the mentioned ingredients and their typical quantities, a rough estimate might range from 250-400 calories per serving, but this is a ballpark figure. For an accurate calorie count, you’d need to utilize nutrition calculation tools or software, inputting the exact amount of each ingredient.
Dietary Restrictions Of The Moroccan Chickpea Soup
- Vegan/Vegetarian: The base recipe is typically vegan and vegetarian-friendly.
- Gluten-Free: It’s naturally gluten-free, but checking the vegetable stock for hidden gluten is wise.
- Low-Carb/Keto: The chickpeas might not suit a strict low-carb or keto diet.
- Nut-Free: Free from nuts, but be cautious with store-bought stock or if serving with garnishes like nuts.
- Dairy-Free: Contains no dairy.
- Halal/Kosher: Compliant, provided the ingredients meet the standards.
Health Benefits Of Moroccan Chickpea Soup
- High in Protein: Chickpeas are an excellent protein source, especially for vegetarians and vegans.
- Rich in Fiber: Supports digestion and can aid in weight management.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Contains essential nutrients like vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and magnesium from vegetables and spices.
- Heart Health: Olive oil and chickpeas have healthy fats that may support heart health.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Spices like cumin and cinnamon provide anti-inflammatory properties.
Nutrition Table
How Can I Make Moroccan Chickpea Soup Lower In Sodium?
- Use No-Salt-Added Ingredients: Opt for no-salt-added canned chickpeas and tomatoes. Rinse canned chickpeas to remove extra sodium.
- Homemade Vegetable Stock: Preparing vegetable stock at home allows you to control the salt content.
- Limit Added Salt: Reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe and let individuals season their portions to taste.
- Enhance Other Flavors: Increase the use of herbs, spices, and lemon juice to boost flavor without relying on salt.
- Check Spice Mixes: Ensure that spice mixes like paprika or cayenne pepper are sodium-free.
How Can I Make Moroccan Chickpea Soup Lower In Sugar?
- Choose No-Sugar-Added Ingredients: Select canned tomatoes and vegetable stock with no added sugars or hidden sweeteners.
- Make Homemade Stock: By making your vegetable stock at home, you control all the ingredients, ensuring no unnecessary sugars are added.
- Check Canned Chickpeas: Sometimes, canned chickpeas may contain sugars for preservation. Rinsing them well or using dried chickpeas can mitigate this.
- Utilize Fresh Vegetables: Use fresh rather than canned vegetables to minimize hidden sugars.
How To Serve The Moroccan Chickpea Soup Best?
- Temperature: Serve the soup hot to enjoy its flavors fully.
- Garnish: Top with chopped fresh mint leaves, a sprinkle of spices, or a drizzle of olive oil for added flair.
- Accompaniments: For a complete meal, offer crusty bread, couscous, or a fresh side salad.
- Bowl Selection: Serve in warm, deep bowls to maintain temperature and presentation.
- Lemon Wedges: Provide lemon wedges on the side for guests to add a zesty touch.
- Customization: Offer additional toppings like yogurt or chopped nuts to suit various tastes.
Perfect Side Dishes To Complement Moroccan Chickpea Soup
- Flatbreads: Traditional Moroccan flatbreads like Khobz provide a delightful texture contrast.
- Couscous Salad: A fresh and vibrant couscous salad with herbs, citrus, and nuts can balance the soup’s heartiness.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned and grilled zucchini, peppers, or eggplants add color and variety.
- Lemon Olives: Tangy and salty, Moroccan lemon olives can enhance the soup’s Mediterranean flavor.
- Stuffed Dates: For a sweet touch, dates stuffed with almonds or cream cheese are a delightful pairing.
How Long Can We Store The Soup?
- Refrigerator: In an airtight container, the soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
- Freezer: The soup can be frozen in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 4-6 months. Poring the soup into individual servings before freezing is best for easier thawing and reheating.
- Reheating Tips: Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator and gently reheat, adding a little water if necessary to restore consistency.
Can I Make Moroccan Chickpea Soup In Advance?
- Refrigerator: You can make the soup a day or two ahead and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen, creating an even richer taste.
- Freezer: If you’re planning further in advance, the soup can be frozen and thawed when needed.
- Reheating: When ready to serve, reheat the soup on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain the texture.
- Garnish: If using fresh mint or other garnishes, add them just before serving to maintain freshness.
What Can We Do With Leftovers?
- Reheat and Eat: Reheat for another satisfying meal.
- Freeze: Portion and freeze leftovers for a quick future meal.
- Stew Base: Thicken the soup with more vegetables, beans, or meat for a hearty stew.
- Pasta Sauce: Reduce and use as a unique sauce for pasta dishes.
- Grain Bowl Topping: Serve over cooked grains like quinoa or rice for a wholesome grain bowl.
- Bread Soaker: Use as a flavorful liquid for bread or stuffing recipes.
Special Tools/Equipment Needed
- Soup Maker: It can handle both sautéing and simmering the soup if available.
- Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan: A good quality saucepan ensures even cooking if not using a soup maker.
- Chef’s Knife: For chopping vegetables.
- Cutting Board: For prepping the ingredients.
- Garlic Press: For crushing garlic, although a knife can also do the job.
- Can Opener: To open canned chickpeas and tomatoes.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: For accurate ingredient measurement.
- Wooden or Silicone Spoon: For stirring the soup without scratching your pan.
- Ladle: For serving the soup.
- Blender: If a smoother texture is preferred, a blender can be used to puree the soup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Dried Chickpeas Be Substituted For Canned Chickpeas In The Recipe?
Indeed, dried chickpeas may be utilized as an alternative to canned ones. However, they must be soaked overnight and cooked until tender, as per standard procedure, prior to incorporating them into the soup. The replacement ratio is typically 1:3, meaning 1 cup of dried chickpeas replaces 3 cups of canned.
Is It Compulsory To Include All The Spices Mentioned, Such As Cumin, Cinnamon, Paprika, And Cayenne Pepper?
While the aforementioned spices impart a characteristic Moroccan flavor to the soup, they may be adjusted or omitted as per individual preference without detrimental impact on the overall preparation.
What Can Be Used As A Substitute For Olive Oil In The Recipe?
Should one wish to replace olive oil, other vegetable oils such as canola, sunflower, or even a light coconut oil may be employed. The chosen substitute should ideally possess a neutral flavor so as not to overwhelm the delicate balance of the dish.
Is It Possible To Incorporate Meat Into The Moroccan Chickpea Soup For A Non-Vegetarian Version?
Indeed, meat such as chicken or lamb may be added to the soup. It is recommended that the meat be properly seared and cooked before adding vegetables and other ingredients to ensure optimal flavor and texture.
How Does One Determine The Appropriate Consistency For Moroccan Chickpea Soup?
The desired consistency of Moroccan Chickpea Soup may vary according to individual taste. If a thicker consistency is preferred, the soup may be simmered longer. Conversely, a thinner soup may incorporate additional stock or hot water. A blender for partial or complete pureeing may also achieve the required texture.
Moroccan Chickpea Soup Recipe Unveiling The Magic Of North African Flavors
Course: Soups u0026amp; Broths4
servings15
minutes25
minutes200
kcalMoroccan Chickpea Soup is a hearty, flavorful blend of chickpeas, vegetables, and exotic spices. It’s a comforting dish that offers warmth and nourishment, embodying the rich culinary traditions of Morocco. A versatile recipe, it can be tailored to various dietary preferences and paired with various accompaniments.
Ingredients
Olive Oil
Celery Stalk, finely chopped
Small Carrot, peeled & finely chopped
Medium Onion, finely chopped
Garlic Cloves, crushed
Chickpeas, rinsed and drained
Chopped Tomatoes
Ground Cumin
Ground Cinnamon
Ground Paprika
Cayenne Pepper
Vegetable Stock
Fresh Mint Leaves, chopped (optional for garnish)
Step-By-Step Directions
- Preparation Steps
Prepare all the ingredients as per the ingredient table. - Cooking
Sauté: Heat the oil in your soup maker if it has a sauté function. Alternatively, heat the oil in a saucepan. Add the onion, garlic, celery, and carrot. Sauté for 5 minutes.
Switch & Transfer: Switch off the sauté function on your soup maker. If using a saucepan, transfer the ingredients to your soup maker.
Add Remaining Ingredients: Carefully add chickpeas, tomatoes, spices, and vegetable stock to your soup maker, ensuring you don’t exceed the MAX line. If needed, top up to the MIN line with hot water.
Blend: If you want a smoother texture, you can blend the soup partially or fully, depending on your preference.
Cook: Put the lid on your soup maker and select the chunky setting. Allow it to cook as per the appliance instructions. - Final Touches and Serving
Garnish: Serve hot, garnished with chopped mint leaves (optional).
Additional Options: Serve with bread or a salad for a complete meal. Adjust seasoning as desired.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Spice levels can be adjusted according to taste preferences.
- Fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley can be added for extra flavor.
- A dollop of yogurt or coconut milk can be stirred for a creamier texture.
- Vegetable stock can be replaced with chicken or beef stock for non-vegetarian versions.
- Dried chickpeas can be substituted for canned, but remember to soak and cook them in advance.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for longer storage.
Here at SoupChick.com, I can offer you a range of different recipes to try, from basic broths, to making your own slow cooker chicken tortilla soup (trust me on this one- it is divine).
I hope that you enjoy making your own as much as I love finding new recipes for you!
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