Joan Nathan Chickpea Soup Recipe: A Healthy and Delicious Option For Any Meal
Soups are a staple in many households, and for a good reason. They are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients and easy to make. Among the many soup recipes out there, one that stands out is the Joan Nathan Chickpea Soup Recipe. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also yields a delicious and hearty soup that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished. In this article, we will explore the ingredients, instructions, pro tips, and safety precautions for making this mouth-watering chickpea soup. Plus, you’ll learn some expert tips for achieving premium results every time you make it.
Overview of the Joan Nathan Chickpea Soup Recipe
Before diving into the ingredients, it is essential to know a bit about the creator of this recipe – Joan Nathan. She is an award-winning cookbook author and culinary expert, renowned for her traditional and innovative approach to Jewish cooking. Her chickpea soup recipe is a perfect blend of legumes, vegetables, and spices that results in a hearty and nourishing bowl of soup. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the ingredients that make this recipe a standout.
Ingredients for Joan Nathan Chickpea Soup
- 1 pound dried chickpeas, soaked overnight
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 stalk of celery, chopped
- 2 medium-sized carrots, chopped
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: chopped fresh herbs, plain Greek yogurt, lemon wedges
Instructions for Making Joan Nathan Chickpea Soup
- Start by draining and rinsing the soaked chickpeas before cooking them. In a large pot, add the chickpeas and enough water to cover them by at least an inch. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until the chickpeas are tender.
- In a separate pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until the onion turns translucent.
- Add in the celery and carrots and continue to cook for 2-3 minutes. Then, add in the cumin, paprika, thyme, and tomato paste. Stir until well combined.
- Next, add the cooked chickpeas and stir to combine with the vegetables and spices.
- Pour in the broth and bring the soup to a boil. Lower heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes.
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup to your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.
- Season with salt and black pepper according to your taste.
- Serve hot in bowls and top with your choice of garnishes, such as chopped fresh herbs, a dollop of plain Greek yogurt, or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Pro Tips for Making the Perfect Joan Nathan Chickpea Soup
As with any recipe, there are some tips and tricks that can elevate this chickpea soup to the next level. Here are some pro tips to keep in mind when making this recipe:
- If possible, use homemade chicken or vegetable broth for a deeper and more flavorful soup.
- If you don’t have time to soak the chickpeas overnight, you can use canned chickpeas. Drain and rinse them before adding them to the soup in step 4.
- For a creamier soup, you can add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk in step 6.
- To add some extra protein and fiber, you can throw in some chopped chicken or spinach in step 6.
Safety Precautions
When cooking any dish, it is essential to follow safety precautions to avoid any accidents or foodborne illnesses. Here are some safety measures to take into consideration when making this chickpea soup:
- Be careful when blending the hot soup to avoid any burns. Use caution and let the soup cool for a few minutes before blending.
- When using canned chickpeas, make sure to thoroughly rinse them before adding them to the soup to remove any excess sodium.
- Always wash your hands before and after handling raw vegetables and legumes to prevent cross-contamination.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide for Joan Nathan Chickpea Soup
If you’re new to cooking or need a visual guide, here’s a step-by-step preparation guide for making this chickpea soup:
- In a large pot, cook the chickpeas until tender. Drain and rinse them.
- In a separate pot, sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat.
- Add in the celery and carrots and cook for a few more minutes.
- Mix in the spices and tomato paste.
- Add the cooked chickpeas to the pot.
- Pour in the broth and let it simmer.
- Blend the soup until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.
Expert Tips for Premium Results
For those looking to take their chickpea soup to the next level, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
- For a denser and creamier soup, puree half of the cooked chickpeas and stir them back into the soup before serving.
- You can customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables, such as diced potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers.
- For a twist on the classic flavors, you can add a spoonful of peanut butter and some chopped peanuts as a garnish.
- This soup also makes for a great meal prep option. Make a big batch and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use canned chickpeas in this recipe?
Yes, you can use canned chickpeas, but make sure to drain and rinse them before adding them to the soup. The cooking time may also be reduced since canned chickpeas are already cooked.
2. Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! Simply swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and omit the optional toppings, such as Greek yogurt.
3. How long does this soup keep in the fridge?
This soup can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
4. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
5. Can I use different spices in this soup?
Of course! Feel free to experiment with different spices to customize the flavor according to your preferences.
And there you have it – a delicious and nourishing Joan Nathan Chickpea Soup that is perfect for any meal. Whether you’re a soup lover or simply looking for a nutritious and filling option for your next meal, this recipe is sure to impress. So, next time you’re craving a warm and comforting soup, give this recipe a try and experience the flavors for yourself!
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