Chickpea Soup Recipe | Simple & Nourishing Comfort Bowl

There’s something deeply calming about a bowl of chickpea soup simmering on a chilly evening. The steam carries the earthy scent of rosemary and garlic, while the creamy texture from blended chickpeas hugs each spoonful. Ready in under an hour, this easy, nourishing meal serves two to three people, offering comfort and balance with every bite protein-rich, hearty, and full of warmth.

Why This Chickpea Soup Works

This chickpea soup strikes a balance between creamy and chunky textures. The blended chickpeas give it a silky base, while the whole ones add a satisfying bite. Potatoes make it hearty, and herbs like thyme and rosemary create depth. With minimal prep and simple steps, it’s beginner-friendly yet full of flavor. You’ll love that it’s entirely plant-based, packed with protein, and perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Chickpeas are the star here, bringing both creaminess and substance. Using one can with its liquid helps create the soup’s thick texture, while the second can adds chunkiness. Garlic builds flavor from the start, and potatoes add body and comfort. Vegetable broth ties everything together with its light savory base. Paprika, thyme, rosemary, and a touch of red pepper flakes add warmth and aroma. Olive oil rounds out the flavor and provides a lovely golden sheen on top.

How to Make Chickpea Soup (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare the Chickpea Purée

Blend one can of chickpeas with its liquid until completely smooth. This purée will form the creamy foundation of the soup without needing any cream or dairy.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Bloom the Spices

Heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and stir gently until fragrant. Then, quickly stir in the paprika, rosemary, thyme, and red pepper flakes. This short bloom unlocks their full flavor.

Step 3: Add Chickpeas, Potatoes, and Broth

Pour in the purée, followed by the drained chickpeas and diced potatoes. Stir everything together, then add the broth. Keep the potato pieces around half an inch so they cook evenly and hold their shape.

Step 4: Simmer and Adjust

Cover and bring the soup to a gentle boil. Then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. As it cooks, lightly mash some of the potatoes and chickpeas for a thicker texture. Taste, then adjust salt and pepper to your liking.

Step 5: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls, drizzle with olive oil, and serve hot. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or pita. The flavors deepen as it rests, so leftovers often taste even better the next day.

Tips for the Best Results

Always cook garlic gently to avoid bitterness. Blooming the spices briefly makes a huge difference in aroma. Check the potatoes often so they don’t turn mushy. If the soup gets too thick, add a splash of broth or water. Letting it rest for ten minutes after cooking brings all the flavors together. When reheating, loosen with a little extra liquid.

Easy Ingredient Substitutions

You can easily swap chickpeas for white beans if that’s what you have. Try sweet potatoes or cauliflower instead of regular potatoes for a twist. Chicken broth works just as well as vegetable broth. Replace paprika with smoked paprika or cumin for a deeper flavor. Any neutral oil works if you’re out of olive oil. If using fresh herbs, double their amount for the same intensity.

What to Serve With Chickpea Soup

This soup shines with a slice of toasted baguette or warm pita on the side. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables make it a balanced meal. For toppings, add a drizzle of olive oil, chopped parsley, or even crunchy croutons for texture. For a cozy dinner, pair it with creamy tomato white bean stew or this summer corn chowder soup recipe.

Storage and Reheating Guide

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. It also freezes well for up to three months. Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave in short bursts. Add a bit of broth or water to thin it out since the soup naturally thickens as it cools. Always stir well before serving again.

FAQ

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Conclusion

This chickpea soup is simple, wholesome, and endlessly adaptable. Each spoonful feels like comfort in a bowl creamy, herb-scented, and nourishing. Whether you keep it classic or experiment with substitutions, it’s sure to become a go-to weeknight favorite. Make a big batch, share it with friends, and enjoy how something so easy can taste so satisfying. For more inspiration, follow along on Pinterest or connect on Facebook.

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