Garlic Chickpea Soup
Garlic Chickpea Soup is the ultimate comfort food, blending simplicity and depth in every spoonful. Packed with flavorful garlic and hearty chickpeas, this soup warms the soul and fills the belly. Whether you crave something warm on a chilly evening or need a quick meal after a long workday, this recipe is here for you. With minimal ingredients and effort, it’s easy to see why this humble soup has become a staple in many kitchens.
Why you’ll love this dish
This Garlic Chickpea Soup is not only budget-friendly, but it’s also incredibly quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. Packed with protein and fiber from the chickpeas, it’s a wholesome meal that the whole family will enjoy. Plus, the aromatic garlic and cumin create a delightful scent that lingers in your home, making it nearly impossible to resist bowl after bowl. It’s perfect for cozy dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep to enjoy throughout the week.
“This Garlic Chickpea Soup is a game-changer! It’s so rich and comforting; I can’t believe it only took me 30 minutes to make. My kids couldn’t get enough of it!” – Satisfied Home Cook
Step-by-step overview
Making Garlic Chickpea Soup is as simple as 1-2-3! First, you’ll sauté the vegetables to build a strong flavor base. Next, you’ll add the chickpeas and broth to create that heartwarming soup goodness. Finally, all that’s left is to blend it to your preferred consistency. This process ensures that you have a delicious and satisfying dish ready in no time.
What you’ll need
For this Garlic Chickpea Soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Feel free to substitute the vegetable broth with chicken broth for a non-vegetarian twist, or use any favorite spices you have on hand to customize the flavor.
Directions to follow
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and add the chopped onion and carrots. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, around 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cumin, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the drained chickpeas and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes.
- For a smooth finish, use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency, or mash the chickpeas slightly with a fork for a chunkier texture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the soup warm, garnished with fresh parsley.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serve this hearty Garlic Chickpea Soup with warm, crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. You can also drizzle a bit of olive oil on top or sprinkle some chili flakes for an extra kick. If you’re feeling adventurous, pair it with a side of crispy roasted veggies to enhance the healthy vibe of this dish.
Storage and reheating tips
To store any leftovers, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it into airtight containers. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, ensure the soup is heated through and reached a temperature of 165°F to ensure safe consumption.
Helpful cooking tips
For the best flavor, let the garlic sauté just until fragrant but not browned to maintain its delicious taste. You can also use fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary for added depth. If you want a smoother texture without an immersion blender, a regular blender works just as well—just ensure that the soup has cooled slightly before blending.
Creative twists
Feel free to play around with the ingredients! Add spinach or kale for an extra nutrient boost, or sprinkle in some chili powder for a bit of spice. For a creamier texture, consider stirring in a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of Greek yogurt just before serving.
Your questions answered
What’s the prep time for Garlic Chickpea Soup?
Prep time is approximately 10 minutes, with about 20 minutes of cooking time. You can have this soup ready in just 30 minutes!
Can I substitute the chickpeas with another bean?
Absolutely! You can use white beans, black beans, or lentils, though cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly.
How long can I store the leftovers?
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to three months. Just remember to reheat it thoroughly before serving.
With its comforting flavors and simple preparation, Garlic Chickpea Soup is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen! Enjoy the warmth each bowl offers and the satisfaction of a home-cooked meal.
Garlic Chickpea Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and add the chopped onion and carrots. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, around 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cumin, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the drained chickpeas and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes.
- For a smooth finish, use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency, or mash the chickpeas slightly with a fork for a chunkier texture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the soup warm, garnished with fresh parsley.
