Persian Soup

Persian Soup Recipe - A Delicious Blend of Garlic, Rosemary, Tomatoes and More

Region / culture: Persia | Preparation time: overnight | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Persian Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cold winter day. This soup is packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal. The combination of chickpeas, tomatoes, and garlic creates a rich and savory broth that is sure to warm you up from the inside out.

History

Persian Soup has been a staple in Persian cuisine for centuries. This dish is often enjoyed during the winter months when fresh produce is scarce. The combination of simple ingredients like chickpeas, tomatoes, and garlic has been a favorite among Persian families for generations.

Ingredients

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

How to prepare

Soak the beans overnight.
Strain the beans and dust them with baking soda.
Remove the skins from the beans.
Put everything into a large pot and simmer for approximately two hours.

Variations

Add diced carrots or celery for extra vegetables.
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added creaminess.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

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

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

- Simmering the soup for at least two hours allows the flavors to meld together and creates a rich and flavorful broth.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Persian Soup with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete and balanced meal. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Soaking the beans overnight helps to reduce cooking time and create a smoother texture in the soup.

- Simmering the soup on low heat allows the flavors to meld together and creates a rich and flavorful broth.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use canned chickpeas instead of dried garbanzo beans for a quicker cooking time.

- Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth for a vegetarian version of this soup.

Make Ahead Tips

Persian Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Persian Soup in individual bowls and garnish with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of ground black pepper. Add a sprig of fresh rosemary for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Persian Soup with a side of flatbread or pita for a complete meal. A glass of red wine or a cup of hot tea would also complement this dish nicely.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Persian Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Persian Soup contains approximately 300 calories. This soup is a satisfying and filling meal that is perfect for lunch or dinner.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Persian Soup contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the body's main source of energy and are essential for fueling our daily activities.

Fats

Each serving of Persian Soup contains approximately 15 grams of fat. The olive oil in this recipe provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that are beneficial for overall health.

Proteins

Each serving of Persian Soup contains approximately 15 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, making this soup a great option for those looking to increase their protein intake.

Vitamins and minerals

Persian Soup is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and iron. These nutrients are important for supporting immune function, blood clotting, and overall health.

Alergens

This recipe contains garlic and olive oil, which may be allergens for some individuals. Please be mindful of any food allergies or sensitivities when preparing this dish.

Summary

Overall, Persian Soup is a nutritious and delicious meal that is rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. This soup is a great option for those looking to warm up on a cold day while enjoying a flavorful and satisfying dish.

Summary

Persian Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cold winter day. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, this soup is a satisfying and flavorful meal that is sure to warm you up from the inside out. Enjoy this hearty soup with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete and balanced meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Persian Soup. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Iran. My grandmother, who was known for her exceptional cooking skills, had invited me into the kitchen to help her prepare a special meal for our family.

As we stood side by side at the stove, my grandmother began to explain the ingredients and techniques she used to create this delicious soup. She told me that the key to a good Persian Soup was in the spices – a careful balance of flavors that would make your taste buds dance with delight.

I watched intently as she chopped onions, garlic, and herbs with precision, adding them to a pot of simmering broth. She then added lentils, chickpeas, and a secret blend of spices that she had learned from her own mother many years before.

As the soup bubbled away on the stove, filling the kitchen with a tantalizing aroma, my grandmother began to share the story of how she had learned to make this recipe. She told me that when she was a young bride, she had moved to a new city with her husband and had found herself feeling homesick for the flavors of her childhood.

Determined to recreate the dishes of her youth, she sought out the help of a local cook who was known for her expertise in traditional Persian cuisine. Over the course of several weeks, my grandmother spent hours in the kitchen with this woman, learning the secrets of her recipes and techniques.

With each passing day, my grandmother’s skills grew, and soon she was able to replicate the flavors of her homeland with ease. The Persian Soup became a staple in our household, a comforting dish that brought warmth and comfort to our table on cold winter nights.

As my grandmother stirred the soup on the stove, I could see the pride in her eyes as she recounted the story of how she had learned to make this recipe. It was a lesson in perseverance, determination, and the importance of preserving family traditions.

And so, as I continue to make this Persian Soup for my own family, I am reminded of the journey that brought this recipe into my life. It is a reminder of the love and dedication that my grandmother poured into her cooking, and a testament to the power of food to connect us to our past and our heritage.

As I ladle the steaming soup into bowls and garnish it with fresh herbs, I am grateful for the lessons that my grandmother taught me in the kitchen. And as my family sits down to enjoy this delicious meal together, I know that the flavors of our past will continue to nourish us for generations to come.