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Comforting Turmeric Soup

Featured in Big pots of steaming, hearty soup.

This golden turmeric soup combines Mediterranean flavors with healthy eating. Turmeric, known for its anti-inflammatory benefits, pairs wonderfully with protein-packed chickpeas and nutrient-rich spinach. Orzo adds a comforting texture, and mashing some chickpeas creates a natural creaminess. A splash of lemon at the end brightens the dish, and toppings like Greek yogurt or olive oil let you customize your bowl. This flexible recipe is a go-to for making delicious meals with what’s on hand.
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alicia in the kitchen
Updated on Tue, 04 Mar 2025 22:18:15 GMT
Turmeric Soup with Chickpeas, Orzo, and Spinach Pin it
Turmeric Soup with Chickpeas, Orzo, and Spinach | Tasteofsavor.com

This golden turmeric soup with chickpeas and spinach is a nourishing blend of flavors and textures. The earthy warmth of turmeric combines perfectly with tender chickpeas and fresh spinach, brightened by a touch of lemon.

This soul-warming soup has become a weekly staple in my kitchen since discovering turmeric's benefits. Its sunny golden color has earned it the nickname 'sunshine soup' in my household.

Essential Ingredients Guide

  • Turmeric: Choose organic for maximum flavor and benefits
  • Chickpeas: Home-cooked dried chickpeas provide the best texture
  • Orzo: These rice-shaped pasta pieces add comforting body
  • Fresh Spinach: Select tender young leaves
  • Garlic: Use fresh, aromatic cloves
  • Lemon: Organic unwaxed lemons work best for zest and juice

Cooking Method

1.
Heat quality olive oil in a large pot. Slowly cook diced onions until translucent and soft, about 10 minutes on low heat.
2.
Toast turmeric and cumin in the oil briefly to release their essential oils and aromas, being careful not to burn them.
3.
Add chickpeas, lightly crushing some to naturally thicken the broth while leaving others whole for texture.
4.
Pour broth in gradually, starting with a small amount to deglaze the flavorful fond from the pot bottom.
5.
Cook orzo until perfectly al dente, testing frequently as it will continue softening in the hot broth.
6.
Add spinach just before serving to maintain its bright color and fresh texture.

The true beauty of this soup lies in how the flavors and textures complement each other.

Each bowl can be customized with toppings like toasted pumpkin seeds, garlic croutons, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess.

While the process is straightforward, each step contributes to creating this harmonious, comforting soup.

Turmeric Soup with Chickpeas, Orzo and Spinach Pin it
Turmeric Soup with Chickpeas, Orzo and Spinach | Tasteofsavor.com

This recipe has become my go-to winter wellness dish, providing warmth and nourishment for the whole family.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I swap orzo for something else?
Sure! Use quinoa, rice, or pearl couscous. Just adjust the cooking time for the type of grain you pick.
→ Is this soup freezable?
Yes! Just add the fresh spinach when reheating to keep the texture nice.
→ Can I use dried chickpeas?
Of course. Just soak them and cook them before adding them to the soup.
→ How do I make the soup creamier?
Stir in some coconut milk or Greek yogurt, or mash up more of the chickpeas.
→ Does turmeric stain utensils?
Yep, it can. Stick to stainless steel or glass tools when cooking with turmeric.

Golden Chickpea Soup

A golden, cozy soup with turmeric, chickpeas, orzo, and fresh spinach. It’s a satisfying, Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Prep Time
20 Minutes
Cook Time
30 Minutes
Total Time
50 Minutes
By: Alicia

Category: Soups & Stews

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Yield: 6 Servings

Dietary: Vegan, Vegetarian, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

→ Spices and Seasonings

01 1 tsp ground cumin
02 2 tsp powdered turmeric
03 Salt and black pepper to taste

→ Core Ingredients

04 3 garlic cloves, minced
05 2 tbsp olive oil
06 1 medium onion, diced
07 1.5 liters broth (chicken, veggie, or bone)
08 1 cup orzo
09 200 grams fresh spinach
10 2 cans chickpeas (400g each), drained and rinsed
11 Juice of one lemon

→ Optional Toppings

12 Extra-virgin olive oil
13 Greek yogurt
14 Aleppo pepper flakes

Instructions

Step 01

Cook the onion in olive oil until it turns soft.

Step 02

Stir in the chickpeas, powdered turmeric, cumin, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook until the spices smell fragrant and the chickpeas get lightly crisp.

Step 03

Use a potato masher to squish part of the chickpeas to give the soup a thicker consistency.

Step 04

Pour a little of the broth into the pan and scrape up anything stuck to the bottom. Add the remaining broth, bring it to a boil, then toss in the orzo. Cover the pot and simmer gently until the orzo is tender.

Step 05

Stir in the spinach until it wilts. Turn off the heat and squeeze in the lemon juice. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 06

Dish it up with a drizzle of olive oil, a dollop of Greek yogurt, and a sprinkle of Aleppo pepper if you’d like.

Notes

  1. Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days
  2. Orzo will soak up extra broth over time, so add more if needed

Tools You'll Need

  • Large pot
  • Potato masher
  • Wooden spoon

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains gluten (orzo)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 310
  • Total Fat: 9 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 48 g
  • Protein: 12 g