Soothing Garlic Chickpea Soup
User Reviews
4.3
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
2 hrs
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Total Time
2 hrs 5 mins
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Servings
6 servings
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Calories
280 kcal
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Course
Main Course
Soothing Garlic Chickpea Soup
Description
Soothing Garlic Chickpea Soup begins with slowly cooked chickpeas simmered alongside a whole onion until they become soft and tender. After straining, the cooking liquid is reserved, and the onion is discarded. Garlic is gently sautéed in olive oil until golden, then combined with crushed or fresh tomatoes. The cooked chickpeas and some of their cooking water are added back to the pot to simmer gently, melding flavors and allowing the soup to develop a cohesive texture and warmth.
The soup’s flavor is mild and comforting, with the garlic and tomatoes adding subtle depth. The chickpeas’ creamy texture contrasts with the bright acidity from lime juice that is squeezed in just before serving. Fresh herbs like cilantro and parsley, along with chopped green chilies or chili flakes, can be added according to taste for an aromatic finish and a touch of heat.
This chickpea soup is ideal for a light yet filling meal, easily adaptable to different cooking methods including stovetop, slow cooker, pressure cooker, or instant pot. It can be made from dried or canned chickpeas, making it convenient as well.
Using lime juice or lemon juice at the end adds essential brightness that lifts the dish. For a quicker version, canned chickpeas with vegetable broth can be substituted, maintaining much of the soup’s character. The optional fresh herbs and chili toppings enhance but are not required, allowing flexibility in flavor preferences.
Ingredients
Chickpea Soup:
- 2 cups chickpeas raw
- 1 onion peeled and left whole, small
- 5 cups water more or less depending on how you’ll cook the chickpeas
- 1/2 tablespoon kosher salt more or less to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup crushed tomatoes or 1 cup of grated fresh tomatoes
Topping:
- 1 lime juiced
- parsley fresh, chopped
- cilantro fresh, chopped
- green chili chopped, or jalapeños
- chili flakes optional
Notes
- If using canned chickpeas, rinse and drain well before using, and substitute cooking water with vegetable broth.
- Fresh lime or lemon juice added at serving time brightens the soup and balances the richness of the chickpeas.
- Optional toppings like cilantro, parsley, green chili, or chili flakes add freshness and controlled heat.
- Cooking chickpeas until very soft contributes to the soup’s soothing texture.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.3
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