Chickpea Soup

Authentic Lebanese Chickpea Soup Recipe with Garlic and Rosemary

Region / culture: Lebanon | Preparation time: 12 hours | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 6

Introduction

Chickpea soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cold winter day. This recipe is packed with flavor and is sure to warm you up from the inside out.

History

Chickpea soup has been a staple in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries. Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are a versatile legume that is commonly used in soups, stews, and salads. This recipe has been passed down through generations and is a favorite among many families.

Ingredients

1 whole clove garlic
1 tsp rosemary
2 chopped tomatoes
4 cups dried garbanzo beans
4 cans chickpeas, rinsed and drained (approx. 15 oz (425 g))
approx. 4 cups water or chicken stock
2 tbsp baking soda
2-3 chopped onions
1 cup olive oil
salt and freshly ground black pepper
lemon slices (for garnish)

How to prepare

Soak the beans overnight in warm water.
Strain and dust with baking soda.
Let them stand for 15 minutes.
Rinse them with hot water and rub a few at a time between your fingers to remove the skins (discard the skins).
Place them into a strainer and rinse thoroughly for several minutes.
Put them into a large pot along with enough water or chicken stock to cover and bring to a boil.
Skim off the foam as it rises.
Add the onions, oil, salt, and pepper.
Simmer covered until the beans split, for about 90 minutes to 2 hours.
Serve hot with lemon slices.

Variations

Add diced carrots and celery for extra flavor and texture.
Stir in a spoonful of tahini for a creamy finish.
Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soaking the beans overnight helps to soften them and reduce cooking time.

- Removing the skins of the beans may seem tedious, but it is worth the effort as it helps to create a smoother texture.

- Adding a splash of lemon juice before serving can help to brighten up the flavors of the soup.

Serving Suggestions

Chickpea soup can be served with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the soup slowly helps to develop the flavors and create a rich broth.

- Pureeing a portion of the soup can help to thicken it and create a creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use canned chickpeas instead of dried ones, but be sure to rinse them well before adding them to the soup.

- Vegetable stock can be used in place of chicken stock for a vegetarian version of this recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

Chickpea soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it on the stove before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish each bowl of chickpea soup with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and a wedge of lemon for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Chickpea soup pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a light-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover chickpea soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of chickpea soup contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of chickpea soup contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of chickpea soup contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of chickpea soup contains approximately 10 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Chickpeas are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and vitamin B6.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens, but individuals with legume allergies should avoid chickpeas.

Summary

Chickpea soup is a nutritious and filling dish that is rich in carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Chickpea soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy a bowl of this hearty soup with your favorite bread or salad for a satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy little kitchen, and she had just finished making a pot of delicious Chickpea Soup. The aroma that filled the room was heavenly, and I knew at that moment that I had to learn how to make it myself.

Maria smiled as she served me a steaming bowl of the soup, and I eagerly took my first bite. The flavors were so rich and comforting, a perfect blend of spices and hearty ingredients that warmed me from the inside out. I couldn't help but ask her for the recipe.

Maria laughed and said it was a family recipe that had been passed down for generations. She graciously agreed to teach me how to make it, and we spent the entire afternoon in her kitchen, chopping vegetables, sautéing onions, and simmering the soup to perfection.

As we cooked, Maria shared stories of her own grandmother, who had taught her how to make the soup when she was just a little girl. She spoke of the love and care that went into every pot, and how the soup had become a symbol of family and tradition for her.

I listened intently, soaking up every word and every step of the recipe. I knew that this soup would hold a special place in my heart as well, and I was determined to learn how to make it just as perfectly as Maria did.

After several hours of cooking and stirring, the soup was finally ready. Maria ladled it into bowls and we sat down at her table to enjoy our creation. The first spoonful was pure bliss, a taste of home and history that warmed my soul.

From that day on, Chickpea Soup became a staple in my own kitchen. I perfected the recipe through trial and error, adjusting the spices to my own taste and experimenting with different variations. I made it for my family and friends, sharing the love and tradition that Maria had passed down to me.

Over the years, I added my own twists to the recipe, incorporating ingredients that I had discovered on my own culinary journey. But no matter how many variations I tried, the original Chickpea Soup that Maria had taught me remained my favorite.

I often think of Maria and her grandmother when I make the soup, remembering the warmth and joy that filled their kitchen that day. I am grateful for their generosity in sharing their recipe with me, and I am proud to carry on the tradition in my own home.

As I stir a fresh pot of Chickpea Soup on the stove, the memories of that day with Maria come flooding back. I can still hear her laughter and smell the fragrant spices that filled her kitchen. And as I take my first spoonful of the soup, I am transported back to that moment of discovery and connection.

In the end, it is more than just a recipe. It is a story of friendship, tradition, and the power of food to bring people together. And I am grateful every day for the gift of Chickpea Soup that Maria shared with me.