Moroccan Chickpea Soup

Introduction

Moroccan Chickpea Soup is your ticket to bringing the rich, aromatic flavors of North Africa right into your kitchen! This hearty, spice-infused soup is a perfect balance of warmth, comfort, and nourishment, making it an ideal dish for cozy nights, meal prep, or simply when you’re craving something wholesome and satisfying.

I remember the first time I made this soup on a chilly evening—it filled my home with the irresistible scent of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, instantly transporting me to the bustling spice markets of Morocco. With tender chickpeas, vibrant vegetables, and a deep, savory broth, every spoonful is packed with flavor and goodness.

What makes Moroccan Chickpea Soup truly special is its versatility. You can keep it simple and enjoy it as a light yet filling meal, or serve it alongside warm, crusty bread or fluffy rice for a heartier experience. Want to take it up a notch? A dollop of yogurt, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lemon can add a bright, refreshing twist.

The best part? It’s easy to make with just a handful of pantry staples, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or when you need a nourishing bowl of comfort. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a gathering of friends, this Moroccan Chickpea Soup is sure to be a hit!

Perfect for:

• Cozy winter meals
• Meal prepping
• Vegan and vegetarian diets
• High-protein, fiber-rich meals
• Quick and easy weeknight dinners

Why You’ll Love This Moroccan Chickpea Soup

Here’s why Moroccan Chickpea Soup will become a staple in your kitchen:

• Rich in Flavor: The blend of Moroccan spices gives this soup an aromatic and deeply satisfying taste.
• Hearty and Filling: Chickpeas provide a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, keeping you full for hours.
• Easy to Make: This one-pot soup is simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious and Wholesome: Packed with vegetables and legumes, this soup is both nourishing and delicious.
• Meal Prep Friendly: It stores and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prepping.
• Dietary Friendly: Naturally vegan and gluten-free, but easy to customize with your favorite add-ins.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 10g, Carbs: 40g, Fiber: 10g, Fat: 5g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Moroccan Chickpea Soup:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Chickpeas: A great source of protein and fiber, adding heartiness to the soup.
• Spices: The combination of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon gives the soup its signature Moroccan flavor.
• Vegetables: Carrots, bell peppers, and tomatoes provide a rich texture and nutritional boost.
• Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice at the end brightens up the flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Soup:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Garlic and Vegetables: Stir in the garlic, carrots, and red bell pepper. Cook for another 3 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
3. Toast the Spices: Add cumin, coriander, cinnamon, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well and cook for 1 minute to release the flavors.
4. Add Chickpeas and Tomatoes: Pour in the drained chickpeas and diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir everything together.
5. Pour in the Broth: Add vegetable broth, salt, and black pepper. Stir and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
6. Simmer: Reduce heat and let the soup simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
7. Finish with Lemon Juice: Stir in the lemon juice and adjust seasoning if needed.
8. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley. Serve hot.

How to Serve Moroccan Chickpea Soup

Moroccan Chickpea Soup is delicious on its own, but here are some ways to enhance it:

• With Crusty Bread – Serve with warm, crusty bread like a baguette or Moroccan khobz for dipping.
• Over Couscous – Pour the soup over fluffy couscous for a heartier meal.
• With a Side of Harissa – Offer a side of harissa paste for a spicy kick.
• Topped with Fresh Herbs – Garnish with chopped cilantro, parsley, or mint for a fresh finish.
• With a Dollop of Yogurt – Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt for creaminess and contrast.
• With Lemon Wedges – Serve with lemon wedges for guests to squeeze over their soup for extra brightness.
• Alongside Olives – Pair with Moroccan olives and pickled vegetables for a flavorful side.
• With Roasted Chickpeas – Sprinkle crispy roasted chickpeas on top for crunch.
• In a Bread Bowl – Serve inside a hollowed-out round loaf for a fun presentation.
• With a Side of Dates – Offer sweet dates on the side for a traditional Moroccan touch.

Additional Tips for Moroccan Chickpea Soup

Here are some tips to ensure your Moroccan Chickpea Soup turns out perfectly every time:

• Sauté the Spices: Cooking the spices before adding liquid enhances their depth of flavor.
• Adjust the Heat: If you like it spicier, increase the cayenne pepper or add chili flakes.
• Make it Creamy: Blend half of the soup for a thicker, creamier consistency.
• Use Dried Chickpeas: If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and cook them separately before adding them to the soup.
• Store Properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freeze for Later: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
• Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add zucchini, sweet potatoes, or spinach for variety.

Recipe Variations for Moroccan Chickpea Soup

Here are 10 variations you can try for Moroccan Chickpea Soup:

• Spicy Harissa Chickpea Soup: Add a tablespoon of harissa paste for extra heat and depth.
• Coconut Chickpea Soup: Stir in ½ cup coconut milk for a creamy twist.
• Lentil & Chickpea Soup: Add ½ cup of red lentils for extra protein and texture.
• Sweet Potato Chickpea Soup: Replace carrots with diced sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet flavor.
• Tomato-Free Chickpea Soup: Skip the tomatoes and add more broth for a lighter version.
• Roasted Chickpea Soup: Roast the chickpeas before adding them for a nutty, crunchy texture.
• Spinach & Chickpea Soup: Stir in fresh spinach at the end for added greens.
• Carrot Ginger Chickpea Soup: Add grated ginger for an extra zing of flavor.
• Smoky Chickpea Soup: Use fire-roasted tomatoes and add extra smoked paprika.
• Meaty Chickpea Soup: Add shredded chicken or ground turkey for a non-vegetarian version.

Freezing and Storage for Moroccan Chickpea Soup

• Freezing: Let the soup cool completely, then store it in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove over medium heat.
• Storage: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container.

Special Equipment for Moroccan Chickpea Soup

Here are some useful tools for making Moroccan Chickpea Soup:

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: Perfect for cooking soups evenly.
• Wooden Spoon: For stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Ladle: Makes serving the soup easier.
• Blender or Immersion Blender: If you want a smoother texture.
• Citrus Juicer: Helps extract maximum juice from lemons.
• Airtight Containers: For storing leftovers or freezing.

Frequently Asked Questions for Moroccan Chickpea Soup

1. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
   Yes! Add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
2. Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried?
   Absolutely! Canned chickpeas work perfectly and save time.
3. Is this soup gluten-free?
   Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free. Just check your broth ingredients to be sure.
4. Can I make it ahead of time?
   Yes, the flavors deepen over time, making it great for meal prep.
5. How can I make it thicker?
   Blend part of the soup or add cooked lentils for a thicker consistency.

Print

Conclusion

Moroccan Chickpea Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings warmth and nourishment to your table. Packed with aromatic spices, hearty chickpeas, and vibrant vegetables, this soup is as delicious as it is satisfying. Each spoonful delivers a perfect balance of bold flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Easy to prepare and even better the next day, this versatile soup is perfect for a cozy night in or meal prepping for the week ahead. Enjoy it fresh, save some for later, and savor the rich, comforting taste whenever you need a nourishing meal.

I’d love to see how your Moroccan Chickpea Soup turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!