MOROCCAN CHICKPEA SOUP WITH RAS EL HANOUT
This Moroccan Chickpea Soup with Ras EL Hanout is a celebration of warm spices and wholesome ingredients, crafted with simplicity and depth. A base of hearty chickpeas and fresh tomatoes is simmered in a spiced vegetable broth infused with ras el hanout, which is a classic Moroccan spice blend known for its complex fragrance. A touch of fresh parsley adds a vibrant herbal lift, creating a dish that feels both comforting and nourishing. This soup is perfect for a quick lunch or a soothing dinner, which brings the exotic essence of North African cuisine straight to your table. This soup is naturally rich in plant-based protein and dietary fibre, which is ideal for those following vegan or gluten-free diets. Whether you’re looking for something warming on a cold evening or a light meal with global flair, this Moroccan Chickpea Soup with Ras EL Hanout delivers soul-satisfying comfort with every spoonful.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Lunch, Dinner, Entrée
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Moroccan, North African, Mediterranean
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
One-Pot Wonders, Simmer, Sauté
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Ramadan, Fall, Winter, Potluck, Picnic, Spring
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegan, Vegetarian, Healthy, High Fibre, Low Fat, Low/ No Sugar, Quick & Easy, Wheat / Gluten-Free
DISH TYPE
Soup / Stew
INGREDIENTS
The ingredients required for Moroccan Chickpea Soup with Ras El Hanout are listed below:
- 82 grams | 2.89 ounces | ½ cup chickpeas
- 40 grams | 1.41 ounces | ¼ cup chopped tomato
- 240 milliliters | 8.12 fluid ounces | 1 cup vegetable broth
- 5 grams | 0.02 ounces | ¼ teaspoon ras el hanout
- 4 grams | 0.14 ounces | 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- 6 grams | 0.21 ounces | 1 teaspoon salt (Optional)
- 2 grams | 0.07 ounces | 1 teaspoon black pepper (Optional)
- 5 millilitres | 0.15 fluid ounces | 1 teaspoon olive oil (Optional)
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 164 kilocalories
- Fat: 1.5 grams
- Saturated Fat: 0.2 grams
- Carbohydrate: 27.6 grams
- Sugar: 3.0 grams
- Fibre: 7.1 grams
- Sodium: 540 milligrams
- Protein: 8.1 grams
- Calcium: 63 milligrams
- Potassium: 480 milligrams
- Iron: 2.6 milligrams
PREPARATION
These steps are followed for the preparation of Moroccan Chickpea Soup with Ras El Hanout:
- Heat Pan: Place a small saucepan on the hob over medium heat and allow it to warm gradually. This will prepare the base for cooking the ingredients evenly without burning.
- Sauté Tomato: Add the chopped tomato to the pan and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. The tomato should soften and begin releasing its natural juices, creating a fragrant base.
- Add Spices: Sprinkle in the ras el hanout and stir continuously for about 30 seconds. Heating the spice blend gently will release its deep fragrance and bring forward the characteristic Moroccan flavour.
- Add Chickpeas And Broth: Add the chickpeas to the pan, followed by the vegetable broth. Stir thoroughly so the chickpeas are coated with the spice-infused tomato mixture and the broth distributes evenly.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and then reduce the heat slightly. Cover the pan and allow it to cook for 10 to 12 minutes so that the flavours blend and the broth becomes aromatic.
- Add Parsley: Stir in the freshly chopped parsley to provide a bright herbal lift. Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting carefully to achieve balance.
- Let It Rest: Once cooking is complete, remove the pan from the hob and let the soup rest for about 1 minute. This pause allows the spices and herbs to settle and enrich the overall flavour.
- Garnish: Serve the soup hot in a bowl. Garnish with additional parsley or drizzle with olive oil if desired, creating a visually appealing and flavourful finish.
PREPARATION TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
15 minutes
TIPS
- Use Canned Chickpeas: Use canned chickpeas for convenience and rinse them thoroughly to remove excess salt.
- Toast Spices: Toasting the ras el hanout in the pan first intensifies its complexity and warmth.
- Use Rich Broth: Use a rich vegetable broth for maximum flavour depth.
- Add Lemon Juice: Add a splash of lemon juice before serving to brighten the soup.
- Mash Chickpeas: For a slightly thicker texture, lightly mash some of the chickpeas during cooking.
VARIATIONS
- Add Grains: Stir in cooked quinoa or couscous for a heartier version.
- Spice Level: Add a pinch of cayenne or harissa for more heat.
- Creamy Finish: Blend half of the soup and return it to the pot for added body.
- Additional Vegetables: Include chopped courgette, spinach or carrots for variety.
- Protein Boost: Add lentils or tofu for extra plant-based protein.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm on the hob over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
- Meal Preparation Tip: Make a larger batch and divide it into containers for quick lunches.
