Zucchini and Chickpea Soup

This creamy zucchini and chickpea soup is a delicious and hearty dish that combines fresh vegetables with a blend of spices for a warming meal. The soup is perfect for a cozy dinner or a satisfying lunch and is made with vibrant zucchini, tender chickpeas, and a hint of curry. The delightful aroma of this soup will fill your kitchen and entice your taste buds. Ideal for vegetarians, you can easily make it vegan by substituting Greek yogurt with a non-dairy alternative. This soup is rich in flavor yet light on calories, making it a healthy option for those watching their diet. The chickpeas add protein, making the soup not only a comforting choice but also a nutritious one. The preparation is straightforward, requiring only a short time to achieve a delightful culinary experience. Pair it with some crusty bread for a complete meal that will surely please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 800 g zucchini
• 800 ml meat or vegetable broth
• 240 g canned chickpeas
• 1 medium onion
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1.5 tsp curry powder
• A pinch of cayenne pepper
• Salt to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil for sautéing
• Greek yogurt for serving

For Chickpeas:

• 120 g canned chickpeas
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika powder
• A pinch of salt

Preparation Time

Total Time: 40 minutes
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent.
2. Add the drained canned chickpeas, sliced zucchini (about an inch thick), minced garlic cloves, curry powder, and cayenne pepper to the pot.
3. Stir the ingredients occasionally, allowing them to sauté for about 5 minutes, ensuring they take on a light golden color.
4. Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender.
5. While the soup simmers, prepare the chickpeas for serving. In a small pan, heat olive oil, then add the chickpeas, smoked paprika, and salt.
6. Cook the chickpeas for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are fully coated with spices and start to firm up.
7. Once the soup is done cooking, allow it to cool slightly before transferring it to a blender. Blend the soup until it reaches a nearly smooth consistency.
8. Return the blended soup to the pot, warm it over low heat, and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed.
9. Serve the hot soup in bowls, garnished with a dollop of Greek yogurt and the spiced chickpeas on top.
10. Enjoy your nourishing and flavorful zucchini and chickpea soup!

Tips

• For a vegan version, substitute Greek yogurt with a non-dairy option, like coconut yogurt.
• Add variety by including other vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers based on your preference.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approx. 250 per serving
• Protein: 10 g
• Fats: 7 g
• Carbs: 43 g

Variations

• Substitute curry powder with garam masala or other spice blends to change the flavor profile.
• Use fresh chickpeas instead of canned for an even fresher taste; soak them overnight and cook before using.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a fresh tang.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair the soup with a side of toasted garlic bread or a fresh salad.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for added freshness.

Best Places

• Zuni Café - Known for its top-notch savory soups and comforting meals. Location: 1658 Lexington Ave, San Francisco, USA.
• L'Arpege - This venue blends culinary expertise with fresh ingredients creating the finest soups. Location: 84 Rue de Varenne, Paris, France.
• The Ledbury - Offers a delightful menu that includes a creative twist on classic soups. Location: 127 Ledbury Rd, London, England.
• Café Central - Combines an authentic atmosphere with beautifully presented meals. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
• Buvette - Parisian charm meets comforting cuisine, with each dish crafted artistically. Location: 42 Grove St, New York City, USA.
• Quintonil - Renowned for its focus on sustainability and incredible flavors. Location: Av. Isaac Newton 55, Mexico City, Mexico.
• Tetsuya's - Excellence in service and taste, often featuring complex and sophisticated soups. Location: 529 Kent St, Sydney, Australia.
• Noma - World-famous for creativity and quality, often experimenting with unique soup recipes. Location: Refshalevej 96, Copenhagen, Denmark.
• Faviken - A distant yet revered location known for simplicity and excellence in dishes. Location: Faviken 216, Jarpen, Sweden.
• Tickets Bar - This unique spot in Barcelona is a mecca for innovative dining experiences. Location: Avinguda del Parallel, 164, Barcelona, Spain.