This Moroccan spiced chickpea soup is a flavorful and nutritious dish that showcases the rich culinary traditions of Morocco. Made with chickpeas, tomatoes, and aromatic spices, it offers a delightful combination of warmth and comfort.
The recipe is simple to follow and can be made in one pot, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. You can adjust the spices to your liking and add vegetables for extra nutrition.
Exploring the Rich Flavors of Chickpea Soup
The vibrant Moroccan chickpea soup is a delightful representation of the country’s rich culinary heritage. This dish combines the earthiness of chickpeas with the freshness of vegetables, creating a comforting meal that warms the soul.
With its colorful ingredients like diced tomatoes and carrots, this soup not only pleases the palate but also the eyes. The aromatic spices bring a unique depth, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.
Ingredients for Chickpea Soup
Each component of this chickpea soup plays a vital role in achieving its signature flavor. The base starts with sautéed onions and garlic, which provide a fragrant foundation.
Adding diced carrots introduces a natural sweetness, while the spices—cumin, coriander, and smoked paprika—infuse the soup with warmth and complexity. The chickpeas add heartiness, making this dish satisfying and nutritious.
The Art of Preparation
Preparing Moroccan chickpea soup is a straightforward process that can be completed in about 45 minutes.
Begin by sautéing the aromatics in olive oil, allowing their flavors to meld. Next, incorporate the vegetables and spices, cooking them until fragrant. Finally, combine everything with vegetable broth and let it simmer, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully.
Serving Suggestions for Chickpea Soup
Presentation is key when serving this soup. Ladle the steaming chickpea soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.
Offering lemon wedges on the side adds a bright, zesty finish that enhances the overall flavor profile. This simple addition elevates the dish, making each bite a burst of flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Hearty Moroccan Chickpea Soup Recipe
This chickpea soup features tender chickpeas simmered with tomatoes, carrots, and a blend of spices like cumin and coriander. The recipe takes about 45 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add Vegetables and Spices: Stir in the diced carrots, cumin, coriander, and smoked paprika. Cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and chickpeas to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 25 minutes.
- Season: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a bright finish.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 bowls
- Calories: 180kcal
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
Nutritional Benefits of Chickpea Soup
This Moroccan chickpea soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Each serving contains a healthy balance of protein and carbohydrates, making it a great option for a wholesome meal.
Chickpeas are known for their high fiber content, which promotes digestive health. The inclusion of vegetables adds essential vitamins and minerals, contributing to a well-rounded dish.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this chickpea soup fits the bill. Its simplicity and rich flavors make it a crowd-pleaser.
Moreover, it can easily be adapted to suit various dietary preferences, making it a versatile addition to any meal plan. Enjoying a bowl of this Moroccan chickpea soup is sure to bring warmth and comfort to any table.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
A: Yes, you can! You’ll need about 1 cup of dried chickpeas, which should be soaked overnight and then cooked until tender (this usually takes 1-2 hours) before adding them to the soup as per the instructions. Be aware that this will significantly increase the total prep and cook time.
Q: Can I make this soup vegan/vegetarian?
A: This recipe is naturally vegan and vegetarian as written, utilizing vegetable broth and plant-based ingredients only.
Q: How can I make the soup spicy?
A: To add a kick, you can include a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of harissa paste (a traditional Moroccan chili paste) along with the other spices in step 2. You can also garnish your bowl with a drizzle of chili oil.
References
- WebMD – The Health Benefits of Tomatoes
- Healthline – 10 Science-Backed Benefits of Chickpeas
- HarvardHealth – The pros and cons of root vegetables
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