Tomato and Chickpea Soup
Tomato and Chickpea Soup Recipe from Egypt with Butter, Onions, and Spices
Introduction
Tomato and Chickpea Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This soup is packed with protein and fiber from the chickpeas, and the tomatoes add a delicious tangy flavor. It is a simple and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a salad or sandwich.
History
This recipe is a classic Middle Eastern dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. Chickpeas are a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, and they are often used in soups, stews, and salads. The combination of chickpeas and tomatoes in this soup creates a rich and comforting flavor that is sure to please your taste buds.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Melt the butter or margarine in a saucepan over medium heat. Saute the garlic and onions until they turn golden brown.
- Add the coriander leaves and stir-fry for a few more minutes. Then, stir in the remaining ingredients and bring to a boil. Cook over medium heat for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked.
- Serve warm with crusty bread.
Variations
- Add diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
- Stir in a spoonful of harissa or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Garnish with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to rinse the rice before adding it to the soup to remove any excess starch.
- You can customize this soup by adding your favorite herbs and spices, such as paprika, turmeric, or cayenne pepper.
- For a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender before serving.
- This soup can be easily doubled or tripled to feed a crowd or to have leftovers for the week.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Tomato and Chickpea Soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. You can also top the soup with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor.
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to sauté the onions and garlic until they are golden brown to develop their flavor.
- Simmer the soup over low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use olive oil or coconut oil in place of butter for a dairy-free option.
- Substitute quinoa or barley for the rice for a different texture.
- Use vegetable broth in place of water for a richer flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
Tomato and Chickpea Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the soup on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish Tomato and Chickpea Soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a beautiful presentation. Serve the soup in individual bowls with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Pairing Recommendations
Tomato and Chickpea Soup pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled cheese sandwiches, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. For a complete meal, serve the soup with a side of protein, such as grilled chicken or tofu.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover Tomato and Chickpea Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the soup on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Tomato and Chickpea Soup contains approximately 250 calories. This soup is a satisfying and nutritious meal that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Tomato and Chickpea Soup contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Fats
Each serving of Tomato and Chickpea Soup contains approximately 6 grams of fat. The fat in this soup comes from the butter and provides essential nutrients for the body, such as vitamins A, D, E, and K.
Proteins
Each serving of Tomato and Chickpea Soup contains approximately 8 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, and chickpeas are a great plant-based source of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Tomato and Chickpea Soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and iron. These nutrients are important for overall health and can help support a strong immune system.
Alergens
This recipe contains dairy (butter), and may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies. It is also gluten-free and vegan-friendly.
Summary
Tomato and Chickpea Soup is a nutritious and delicious meal that is packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is a great option for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Summary
Tomato and Chickpea Soup is a delicious and nutritious meal that is perfect for a cozy night in. This soup is packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a satisfying and healthy option for lunch or dinner. Enjoy this flavorful dish with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my mother. We were visiting a small village in Italy, where my mother's cousin lived. She was known for her delicious and hearty soups, and I was determined to learn her secrets.
One afternoon, as the sun was setting and the air was filled with the scent of tomatoes ripening in the garden, my mother's cousin invited me into her kitchen to help her prepare dinner. She handed me a basket filled with ripe tomatoes and a can of chickpeas, telling me that we were going to make a special soup that was a family favorite.
As we worked together, chopping and stirring, she shared with me the story of how she had learned to make this soup from her own grandmother, who had passed down the recipe through generations. She explained how the combination of fresh tomatoes, chickpeas, and aromatic herbs created a delicious and comforting dish that was perfect for any occasion.
I watched in awe as she effortlessly transformed the simple ingredients into a rich and flavorful soup that filled the kitchen with its enticing aroma. She taught me the importance of patience and the art of balancing flavors, as we added a pinch of salt here and a sprig of fresh basil there.
As we sat down to enjoy our meal, I couldn't help but marvel at how such humble ingredients could come together to create a dish that was so satisfying and delicious. My mother's cousin smiled at me, her eyes twinkling with pride, and told me that this soup was more than just a recipe – it was a tradition, a connection to our family's past.
From that day on, I knew that this Tomato and Chickpea Soup would become a staple in my own kitchen. I made it for my family and friends, sharing the story of how I had learned the recipe from my mother's cousin in that small village in Italy. The soup always brought smiles to their faces, just as it had done for me.
Over the years, I have made some changes to the original recipe, adding my own personal touch with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a dash of chili flakes. But the essence of the dish remains the same – a comforting and nourishing soup that never fails to warm the soul.
As I prepare this Tomato and Chickpea Soup in my kitchen today, the memories of that day in Italy come flooding back to me. I can still hear the laughter of my mother's cousin, smell the fragrant herbs from her garden, and taste the rich flavors of the soup that brought us all together.
I am grateful for the gift of this recipe, passed down through generations and treasured in my heart. It is a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our past, to nourish our bodies and souls, and to bring joy and comfort to those we love.
And as I sit down to enjoy a bowl of Tomato and Chickpea Soup, I can't help but feel grateful for the memories and traditions that have shaped me into the cook I am today. This soup will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the love and heritage that have been passed down through my family for generations.
Categories
| Allspice Recipes | Chickpea Recipes | Egyptian Recipes | Egyptian Soups | Rice Recipes | Tomato Juice Recipes |