Description
Vegan Garlic Chickpea Soup
Looking for a comforting, hearty soup that’s easy to make and packed with flavor? This Vegan Garlic Chickpea Soup is a winner! Chickpeas are such a versatile legume—creamy, protein-rich, and budget-friendly. In this recipe, they shine alongside garlic, potatoes, and a blend of fragrant herbs and spices. This soup comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. Pair it with crusty bread for a full meal that’s satisfying and warming.
1 Tbsp olive oil
3 large garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried rosemary
½ tsp dried thyme
¼ tsp chili flakes
2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas
1 large potato, diced
2 cups vegetable broth
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Directions:
1. Purée one can of chickpeas.
2. Sauté garlic in olive oil.
3. Add chickpeas, potato, spices, and broth.
4. Cook for 25 mins.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Kcal: 252 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare Ingredients: Mince the garlic cloves and dice the potato into 1/2-inch cubes. Drain and rinse both cans of chickpeas. Set one can aside.
2. Purée Chickpeas: In a blender or food processor, purée the first can of chickpeas with a splash of vegetable broth until smooth. This creates a creamy base.
3. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. Build Flavor: Add the paprika, dried rosemary, dried thyme, and chili flakes to the pot. Stir for 30 seconds to toast the spices.
5. Combine and Simmer: Add the puréed chickpeas, the whole chickpeas, diced potato, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a boil.
6. Cook: Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
7. Final Adjustments: Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or chili flakes as desired. For a thinner soup, add a little more broth or water.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty soup hot. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before eating adds brightness. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. For the perfect meal, pair it with a slice of crusty sourdough bread, garlic bread, or a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
How-to Summary
This 30-minute soup is built on a creamy base of puréed chickpeas. Sauté garlic and spices to build depth, then add puréed and whole chickpeas, potato, and broth. Simmer until the potato is tender. The result is a creamy, protein-packed, and deeply flavorful vegan meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned? Yes, but you must cook them thoroughly first. Use 3 cups of cooked chickpeas. Soaking and cooking dried chickpeas will significantly increase the prep time.
How can I make this soup oil-free? Sauté the garlic in a few tablespoons of vegetable broth or water instead of olive oil. The final flavor will be slightly less rich but still delicious.
What can I substitute for the potato? Sweet potato, cauliflower florets, or peeled and diced parsnips would make excellent substitutes, though cooking times may vary slightly.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little broth if it has thickened too much. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Is this soup gluten-free? Yes, as written, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Always ensure your vegetable broth is certified gluten-free if you have a severe intolerance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid burning the garlic in the first step, as it will make the soup bitter. Do not skip puréeing one can of chickpeas—this step is crucial for the soup’s creamy texture without dairy. Ensure you dice the potato uniformly so all pieces cook at the same rate. Finally, do not forget to season in layers; tasting and adjusting the salt and pepper at the end is essential for a balanced flavor.
Conclusion
This Vegan Garlic Chickpea Soup is the epitome of simple, wholesome cooking. It proves that with a few pantry staples and smart techniques—like puréeing legumes for creaminess—you can create a deeply satisfying and nutritious meal in no time. It’s a reliable recipe that delivers comfort, flavor, and plant-based protein in every bowl. Give it a try for an easy dinner that will quickly become a weeknight favorite.