Vegetable and Chickpea Meal Soup

Name: Vegetable and Chickpea Meal Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 2 cups carrots (sliced); 2 cups celery (sliced); 1 red bell pepper (chopped); 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed, 540ml (19 oz)); 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 can diced tomatoes (400ml (14 oz)); 2 cups spinach (fresh); to taste salt and pepper

45 min 6 servings Easy

All Recipes

A hearty vegetable and chickpea soup perfect for a filling meal.

Prep

15 min

Cook

30 min

Total

45 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

This Vegetable and Chickpea Meal Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed as a complete meal. Packed with a variety of vegetables and protein-rich chickpeas, it's perfect for a chilly day or when you're in need of a wholesome meal. Chickpeas are a wonderful source of plant-based protein and fibre, making this soup not only delicious but also satisfying. The combination of vegetables adds a depth of flavour, while the broth ties everything together into a warm, inviting bowl.

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.

Pro tip: Ensure the garlic doesn't burn to avoid a bitter taste.

Add Carrots and Celery

Stir in the sliced carrots and celery. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Spice It Up

Add the chopped red bell pepper, ground cumin, ground coriander, and paprika. Stir well to coat the vegetables with spices.

Pour in Broth and Tomatoes

Add the drained chickpeas, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes.

Pro tip: Use low-sodium broth to control the salt content.

Add Spinach

Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes until wilted.

Pro tip: If using frozen spinach, thaw and drain it before adding.

Season and Serve

Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Pro tip: Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

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Tips & Tricks

Use canned chickpeas for convenience and to save time.
Add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrients.
Adjust the seasoning to taste, especially if using low-sodium broth.
For a thicker soup, blend a portion of it before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is soupe pois chiche légumes?

It's a hearty soup made with chickpeas and a variety of vegetables, often seasoned with spices and served as a meal.

How long to cook chickpeas in the soup?

Canned chickpeas are already cooked, so they only need to simmer in the soup for about 15 minutes to absorb flavours.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Substitute with about 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes.

How to thicken the soup?

To thicken the soup, blend a portion of it before serving, or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove, adding broth if needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this soup with a crusty bread for a complete meal or enjoy it on its own for a lighter option. It pairs well with a fresh green salad or a simple cheese platter. This soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it becomes too thick.