This hearty Chickpea and White Bean Soup is a warm, comforting meal that’s perfect for chilly days or whenever you need something nourishing and satisfying. Packed with protein-rich chickpeas, creamy white beans, and flavorful vegetables, this soup is both nutritious and delicious. The mix of herbs and a hint of lemon adds brightness, making this an ideal dish for lunch or dinner. It’s easy to make, one-pot, and naturally vegan, but satisfying enough for everyone to enjoy. Let’s get cooking!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Recipe Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans (such as cannellini), drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add Garlic and Herbs
- Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until the garlic is fragrant.
- Add Beans, Tomatoes, and Broth
- Add the drained chickpeas, white beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), vegetable broth, water, and the bay leaf. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Simmer the Soup
- Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well combined. Stir occasionally.
- Finish with Lemon
- Stir in the lemon juice to add brightness to the soup. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve
- Remove the bay leaf and discard. Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm with crusty bread for dipping.
Cook Notes & Tips
- Blending Option: For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup. Blend until you achieve your desired consistency, leaving some whole beans and vegetables for texture.
- Lemon Juice: Adding lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors. You can also add a bit of lemon zest for extra citrusy flavor.
- Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors tend to deepen over time, making the leftovers even better.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Chickpea and White Bean Soup: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Green Addition: Stir in 2 cups of fresh spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added greens and nutrition.
- Herb Twist: Use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of dried for a more aromatic flavor. Simply add a few sprigs while simmering and remove before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use dried chickpeas and beans instead of canned? A: Yes, you can use dried chickpeas and white beans, but you will need to soak and cook them in advance. You’ll need about 1 1/2 cups of cooked chickpeas and white beans for this recipe.
Q: Can I freeze this soup? A: Absolutely! Let the soup cool completely before transferring to airtight containers or freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? A: Yes! Sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in a skillet, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
This Chickpea and White Bean Soup is a cozy, hearty dish that’s easy to make and full of nourishing ingredients. With its flavorful broth, protein-packed beans, and vibrant vegetables, it’s a perfect choice for a comforting meal that can be enjoyed any time of the year. Serve it with some crusty bread for a complete, satisfying experience. Make a big batch and enjoy the warmth of this healthy, delicious soup all week long!
