Chickpea Soup (starter)
Chickpea Soup Recipe from Algeria | Ingredients: Chickpeas, Potatoes, Onion, Tomato, Cumin, Salt
Introduction
Chickpea soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that is perfect for a starter. It is a popular dish in many cultures around the world and is known for its rich and flavorful taste. This recipe combines the earthy flavors of chickpeas with the savory taste of mutton, making it a delicious and satisfying dish.
History
Chickpea soup has been enjoyed for centuries in various parts of the world. Chickpeas are a staple ingredient in many cuisines, and they are known for their versatility and nutritional benefits. This recipe has been passed down through generations and has evolved over time to include different ingredients and flavors.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- 1) In a large stew pan, brown the meat in oil along with the minced onion and spices. Then, add everything.
- 2) Add the chickpeas and cover with water.
- 3) Bring to a boil and add the diced potatoes and tomato paste. Season with salt and pepper.
- 4) Cook over low heat for 20 minutes and serve.
Variations
- For a vegetarian version, omit the mutton and add more vegetables such as carrots and celery.
- Add spices such as cumin, coriander, or paprika for a different flavor profile.
- Use different types of beans or legumes in place of chickpeas for a unique twist.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to brown the meat before adding the other ingredients to enhance the flavor of the soup.
- Precooking the chickpeas will help reduce the cooking time and ensure that they are tender.
- Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences, adding more or less salt and pepper as needed.
- For a thicker soup, mash some of the chickpeas before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chickpea soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh herbs or a dollop of yogurt for added flavor.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe uses a simple stovetop cooking method to simmer the ingredients together. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and burning.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have mutton, you can use beef or lamb instead. You can also use canned chickpeas if you don't have precooked ones on hand.
Make Ahead Tips
This chickpea soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Serve this chickpea soup in individual bowls garnished with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of freshness.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair this chickpea soup with a glass of red wine or a light beer for a delicious and satisfying meal. Serve with a side of bread or crackers for added crunch.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover chickpea soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of this chickpea soup contains approximately 300 calories, making it a satisfying and filling dish.
Carbohydrates
Chickpeas are a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for the body. Each serving of this chickpea soup contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
The mutton and oil in this recipe contribute to the fat content of the soup. Each serving contains approximately 10 grams of fat.
Proteins
Mutton and chickpeas are both excellent sources of protein, making this soup a great option for those looking to increase their protein intake. Each serving contains approximately 20 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Chickpeas are rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and vitamin B6. This soup provides a good amount of these essential nutrients.
Alergens
This recipe contains mutton, which may be an allergen for some individuals. It is important to check for any food allergies before preparing this dish.
Summary
Overall, this chickpea soup is a nutritious and balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a great option for a healthy and satisfying starter.
Summary
Chickpea soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a starter. This recipe combines the earthy flavors of chickpeas with the savory taste of mutton, making it a satisfying and flavorful meal. Enjoy this hearty soup with a side of bread or salad for a complete and balanced meal.
How did I get this recipe?
I have a clear memory of the first time I discovered this recipe for Chickpea Soup. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my friend Maria's house in the countryside. Maria was known for her delicious homemade soups, and that day she decided to teach me how to make one of her favorites.
We started by gathering all the ingredients we would need: chickpeas, onions, garlic, carrots, celery, tomatoes, vegetable broth, and a variety of spices. As we chopped and diced, Maria shared with me the story of how she learned to make this soup from her grandmother, who had passed down the recipe through generations.
According to Maria, the key to making the perfect Chickpea Soup was to start with dried chickpeas that had been soaked overnight. This would ensure that they were soft and tender when cooked. She also emphasized the importance of sautéing the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until they were caramelized and fragrant, as this would add depth and richness to the soup.
Once the vegetables were cooked to perfection, we added in the soaked chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Maria then sprinkled in a blend of spices – cumin, turmeric, paprika, and a touch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat. She let the soup simmer on the stove for over an hour, allowing the flavors to meld together and the chickpeas to become creamy and tender.
As the soup bubbled away on the stove, Maria and I sat at the kitchen table, sipping on glasses of chilled white wine and catching up on each other's lives. The scent of the simmering soup filled the air, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished product.
Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, Maria ladled out steaming bowls of Chickpea Soup for us to enjoy. The soup was rich and hearty, with a subtle hint of spice and a comforting warmth that filled me from the inside out. I savored each spoonful, feeling grateful for the opportunity to learn such a delicious and comforting recipe from my dear friend.
From that day on, Chickpea Soup became a staple in my own cooking repertoire. I would make it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and quiet nights at home when I needed a bit of comfort and nourishment. Each time I prepared the soup, I would think back to that hot summer day at Maria's house, and the warmth and friendship that had surrounded me as I learned to make it.
Over the years, I have made a few tweaks and adjustments to the recipe, adding in my own personal touches and variations. Sometimes I'll throw in a handful of chopped spinach or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a bit of brightness. Other times, I'll garnish the soup with a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs from my garden.
But no matter how I choose to make it, Chickpea Soup will always hold a special place in my heart. It's a reminder of friendships shared, lessons learned, and the simple joy of creating something delicious to nourish both body and soul. And for that, I am forever grateful to Maria and her grandmother for passing down this timeless recipe to me.
Categories
| Algerian Appetizers | Algerian Recipes | Chickpea Recipes | Potato Recipes |