Craving a warm, comforting, and utterly delicious meal that comes together in just 30 minutes? This easy garlic chickpea soup is exactly what you need! This flavorful soup is packed with plant-based protein, healthy fiber, and incredible, garlicky goodness. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner solution.
What is Easy Garlic Chickpea Soup?
Ever wondered where the name “Easy Garlic Chickpea Soup” comes from? Is it because it’s ridiculously easy to make, or because the garlic flavor is so intense it practically leaps out of the bowl and slaps you with deliciousness?
Maybe it’s both! We like to think it’s because simplicity is key – a few humble ingredients, a single pot, and bam! – you’re rewarded with a soup so satisfying, it’ll make you question all your other culinary choices. My grandma always said, ‘the way to a man’s (or woman’s) heart is through their stomach,’ and this soup? Yeah, this soup is basically a direct route. Now you have a reason to try this soup!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Garlic Chickpea Soup:
Get ready to fall head-over-heels for this easy garlic chickpea soup! First and foremost, the flavor explosion is unreal. The garlic, combined with the earthy chickpeas and warming spices, creates a symphony of tastes that will leave you craving more. Secondly, let’s talk about your wallet. Making this at home is incredibly cost-effective. Canned chickpeas are budget-friendly, and the other ingredients are likely already in your pantry.
Forget expensive takeout! Finally, the toppings are where you can really let your creativity shine. A squeeze of lemon juice, a dollop of vegan yogurt, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes – the possibilities are endless! And If you love the idea of a healthy chickpea dish, you might also want to check out our Spiced Chickpea and Vegetable Curry. Ready to dig in and experience the magic? Make this soup tonight.
Key Ingredients for Easy Garlic Chickpea Soup:
Here’s what you’ll need to make this amazing chickpea soup.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6-8 cloves garlic, minced (yes, really!)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 (15-ounce) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: Fresh parsley, vegan yogurt, more red pepper flakes, a drizzle of olive oil.
How to Make Easy Garlic Chickpea Soup:
This easy garlic chickpea soup is a breeze to whip up. It’s packed with flavour, wonderfully satisfying and only takes 30 minutes from start to finish or less! The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity, the way the garlic transforms the chickpeas into something almost creamy and special, and the broth creates a comforting depth.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onion is softened and translucent and the garlic is fragrant–be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Spices: Stir in the dried oregano, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another minute, allowing the spices to bloom and release their flavor.
- Incorporate the Chickpeas: Add the drained and rinsed chickpeas to the pot. Stir to coat them with the garlic, onion, and spices. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the chickpeas to warm through.
- Add Liquids & Tomotoes: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the can of diced tomatoes (undrained). Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together.
- Season and Finish: Stir in the lemon juice. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remember, salt is your friend!
- Serve: Ladle the easy garlic chickpea soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings. Fresh parsley, a dollop of vegan yogurt, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, and a drizzle of olive oil are all fantastic choices.
What to Serve Easy Garlic Chickpea Soup With:
This easy garlic chickpea soup is delicious on its own, but it’s even better when paired with the right accompaniments:
- Crusty Bread: For soaking up all that delicious broth. A sourdough or multi-grain loaf would be perfect.
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette will add some freshness and balance the richness of the soup.
- Grilled Cheese: Yes, even vegans can enjoy a good grilled cheese! Use your favorite vegan cheese for a comforting and satisfying combination.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add some extra nutrients and flavor with a side of roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots.
Top Tips for Perfecting Easy Garlic Chickpea Soup:
- Don’t Skimp on the Garlic: The garlic is the star of this soup, so don’t be afraid to use a generous amount. For a milder flavour, use 6 cloves. For more intense flavour use 8 cloves.
- Toast Your Spices: Blooming the spices in the oil before adding the other ingredients will unlock their full flavor potential.
- If Your Soup Is Too Thick: If the soup becomes too thick during simmering, add a bit more vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Blend For Creaminess: For soup more smooth and even creamer, you can use an immersion blender and blend until smooth. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the soup to a blender and blend until smooth.
- Spice It Up: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste. A pinch will add a subtle warmth, while a larger amount will make the soup spicier.
- Substitute Ingredients If you don’t have fresh garlic you can use granulated garlic/garlic powder. Alternatively, If you want a more smoky flavour using smoked paprika is a great choice
Storing and Reheating Tips:
- Storing: Allow the soup to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Freezing: This easy garlic chickpea soup freezes very well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. Leave some space at the top of the container, as the soup will expand when frozen. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
- Freezing Instructions: Thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Final Thoughts:
This easy garlic chickpea soup is a true winner: quick, easy, affordable, and incredibly flavorful. It’s the perfect recipe for busy weeknights, when you need a nourishing and delicious meal on the table fast. So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort!
FAQs
Q: Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
A: Yes, you can! Soak 1 cup of dried chickpeas overnight, then cook them until tender before adding them to the soup. This will add more time to the recipe, so plan accordingly.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, spinach, kale, or zucchini.
Q: Is this soup gluten-free?
A: Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free, as long as you use gluten-free vegetable broth.
Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can. Sauté the garlic and onion as directed, then transfer them to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Q: Can I use different herbs?
Most definitely. Other great choices include fresh rosemary, basil, or a pinch of cumin for a warmer flavour.
Q: I don’t have chickpeas can I use another option?
You can substitute other types of beans, such as cannellini or great northern beans, for an alternative.
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in Pinterest