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This vibrant Middle Eastern soup combines tender chickpeas with sweet carrots and aromatic spices. The ras el hanout spice blend creates an authentic depth of flavor while the vegetables provide a hearty, nourishing base. A perfect balance of comfort and exotic flavors.
A Journey Through Mediterranean Flavors
This soup transforms everyday ingredients into something extraordinary. The chickpeas create a naturally creamy texture, while the carrots add subtle sweetness. When combined with traditional spices, these simple ingredients produce a dish filled with warmth and character.
Essential Ingredients
- 250g dried chickpeas Soaked overnight for optimal texture
- 450g carrots Fresh and sweet for best flavor
- 1 yellow onion Medium-sized, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon ras el hanout Authentic blend preferred
- 750ml vegetable stock Homemade or high-quality store-bought
- Olive oil Extra virgin for sautéing
- Salt and pepper To taste
- Fresh cilantro For garnish
Preparation Method
- Preparation
- Dice carrots uniformly and finely chop the onion for even cooking.
- Building Flavors
- Heat olive oil in a large pot and gently cook onions until translucent.
- Spice Integration
- Add vegetables, chickpeas, and ras el hanout, allowing the spices to bloom.
- Simmering
- Pour in stock and simmer for 20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Finishing
- Blend until smooth, reserving some chickpeas for garnish. Top with fresh cilantro.
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Chef's Tips
Enhance the soup with a dollop of crème fraîche for added richness. Toasted pumpkin seeds provide welcome crunch and texture. For special occasions, serve with homemade garlic herb croutons that complement the aromatic spices perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can canned chickpeas be used?
Yes, definitely! Canned chickpeas are a great timesaver. Use around 500g of cooked canned chickpeas to replace 250g of dried ones.
- → How can I make the soup creamier?
You can blend the soup for a longer period to achieve a silkier texture. If it's too thick, just pour in a little more broth.
- → What if I don’t have raz el hanout?
You can mix cumin, turmeric, and paprika as a replacement. The flavor will change slightly but will still taste amazing.
- → Can this soup be frozen?
Yes, this soup is freezer-friendly! Cool it down completely before freezing and only add fresh coriander when serving.
- → What if I’m not a fan of coriander?
You can swap it for fresh flat-leaf parsley. The taste will still be fresh and delicious.