ADVERTISEMENT
Instructions to Make Chickpea and White Bean Soup
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Begin by prepping your vegetables. Dice the onion, peel and slice the carrots, and chop the celery. Mince the garlic and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Base:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften and the onions become translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning the garlic.
3. Add the Beans and Tomatoes:
- Stir in the chickpeas, white beans, and the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices). Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
4. Simmer the Soup:
- Pour in the vegetable broth and stir in the dried thyme, oregano, ground cumin, and smoked paprika (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Add Greens (Optional):
- If you’re adding spinach or kale, stir them into the soup during the last 5 minutes of cooking. The greens will wilt and cook down, adding extra nutrients to the soup.
6. Season and Adjust the Flavor:
- Once the soup has finished simmering, taste and adjust the seasoning. Add salt and pepper to your preference, and a squeeze of lemon juice can add a refreshing tang to brighten up the flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. This soup is hearty enough on its own but pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions for Chickpea and White Bean Soup
- With a Slice of Crusty Bread: A warm, rustic bread is perfect for dipping into the soup, soaking up all the delicious broth.
- Topped with Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil to add a burst of color and freshness to the dish.
- Add a Protein Boost: For an extra protein kick, consider topping the soup with a scoop of quinoa or a spoonful of Greek yogurt.
- Serve with a Salad: Pair the soup with a light, leafy green salad for a wholesome and well-rounded meal.
Tips for Making the Best Chickpea and White Bean Soup
- Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh thyme and oregano on hand, feel free to substitute them for the dried herbs. Fresh herbs will infuse the soup with even more aromatic flavor.
- Add More Veggies: This soup is easily customizable. Try adding zucchini, bell peppers, or potatoes for extra bulk and nutrition.
- Make It Spicy: If you prefer a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper for a spicy kick.
- Make Ahead: This soup is perfect for meal prep. The flavors deepen and improve as it sits, so you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Why You’ll Love This Chickpea and White Bean Soup
This Chickpea and White Bean Soup is a perfect example of comfort food that doesn’t compromise on nutrition. With its hearty texture, rich flavors, and vibrant vegetables, it’s the ideal dish to warm you up on a chilly day or to enjoy as a nourishing lunch or dinner. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight meal or something to serve at a gathering, this soup is sure to be a hit. It’s wholesome, satisfying, and packed with goodness!
With its ease of preparation and room for customization, this Chickpea and White Bean Soup will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection. So grab your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort!
ADVERTISEMENT
