Chickpea soup is a hearty, nutritious, and comforting dish that’s perfect for any season. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just exploring plant-based meals, this chickpea soup recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy wholesome ingredients without compromising on flavor.
Packed with protein-rich chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and warming spices, this soup is both filling and satisfying. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and easy to make, requiring just a handful of pantry staples and fresh produce.
This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something nourishing but simple. It’s also great for meal prepping, as the flavors deepen beautifully when reheated.
You’ll love how this chickpea soup warms you up from the inside out while providing essential nutrients to keep you energized all day long.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegetarian chickpea soup is a standout for several reasons. First, it’s nutrient-dense, featuring chickpeas which are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber.
This makes it perfect for those looking to maintain a balanced diet without meat. The soup also uses fresh vegetables and herbs, lending it a vibrant flavor and rich texture that’s far from boring.
Another reason to love this recipe is its simplicity and flexibility. You can make it in under an hour, and it adapts well to whatever you have on hand—add kale, spinach, or swap in sweet potatoes for a twist.
It’s naturally gluten-free and vegan, making it suitable for many dietary restrictions.
Lastly, this soup freezes well, so you can enjoy a homemade meal anytime. If you enjoy this recipe, don’t forget to try our Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe or the hearty Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe for more comforting meals.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium potato, peeled and cubed
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes for heat
Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Can opener (if using canned ingredients)
- Blender or immersion blender (optional, for creamier texture)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in your soup pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
- Add minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until vegetables start to soften.
- Stir in the spices: cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, and chili flakes if using. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices and release their aroma.
- Add the cubed potato, cooked chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Stir everything to combine well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Add lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
- For a creamier soup, use an immersion blender to blend part or all of the soup to your desired consistency. Alternatively, transfer a few cups to a blender, puree, and return to the pot.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving. Enjoy warm!
Tips & Variations
Tip: For extra depth of flavor, roast the chickpeas in the oven with some olive oil and spices before adding them to the soup. This adds a delightful smoky crunch.
Variation: Add chopped kale or spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added greens and nutrients. You can also swap potatoes for sweet potatoes for a subtle sweetness.
Make it a meal: Serve with warm crusty bread or over cooked quinoa for added protein and texture.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per serving (1.5 cups) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Fiber | 8 g |
| Fat | 4 g |
| Sodium | 650 mg |
| Vitamin A | 120% DV |
| Vitamin C | 25% DV |
| Iron | 15% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This chickpea soup pairs wonderfully with a warm slice of bread or a fresh side salad for a light lunch or dinner. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside cooked grains like quinoa or brown rice.
Adding a dollop of plain yogurt or a sprinkle of crumbled feta on top can also add a creamy contrast.
For a fun twist, try it with some pickled vegetables on the side—our Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe is an excellent choice to complement the warm flavors of the soup.
Conclusion
This vegetarian chickpea soup recipe is a fantastic addition to any home cook’s repertoire. It’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and packed with nutrition.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a group, this soup offers a comforting and wholesome option that everyone can enjoy. The flexibility of ingredients means you can customize it to your taste or what’s available in your pantry, making it a true kitchen staple.
Next time you’re looking for a cozy, satisfying meal that’s both meat-free and delicious, give this chickpea soup a try. And if you want more inspiration for wholesome meals, be sure to check out our Peda Recipe Ricotta Cheese and Pecan Crackers Recipe for delightful homemade treats to pair with your savory dishes.
📖 Recipe Card: Chickpea Soup Recipe Vegetarian
Description: A hearty and flavorful vegetarian chickpea soup that is easy to prepare. Perfect for a cozy meal packed with protein and fiber.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened.
- Stir in cumin and smoked paprika; cook for 1 minute.
- Add diced tomatoes, chickpeas, and vegetable broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 10 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 30 g
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