Chickpea Instant Pot Soup (Stovetop Option)

Chickpea Instant Pot Soup (Stovetop Option) is a delightful blend of hearty chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and warm Middle Eastern spices. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or enjoying a comforting meal at home. The flexibility to prepare this dish in an Instant Pot or on the stovetop makes it accessible for all skill levels. Rich in flavor and nutrients, this soup promises to satisfy your cravings while keeping your kitchen warm and inviting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time, this soup comes together quickly, making it great for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Aromatic: Infused with warm spices like cumin and coriander, each spoonful bursts with rich flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or as a starter. Pair it with bread or serve it over rice for a complete meal.
• Nutrient-Dense: Packed with protein from chickpeas and vitamins from fresh veggies, it’s both healthy and satisfying.
• Vegan-Friendly: This recipe caters to plant-based diets without sacrificing taste or richness.

Tools and Preparation

To make Chickpea Instant Pot Soup (Stovetop Option), you’ll need some essential tools that will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot (or large pot for stovetop)
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: Speeds up cooking time significantly while infusing flavors beautifully.
• Cutting Board: Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables safely.
• Sharp Knife: Ensures clean cuts, making prep work quicker and easier.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• Dry chickpeas (2 cups)
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Yellow onion, chopped (1)
• Garlic cloves, minced (3)
• Salt

Fresh Vegetables

• Carrots, chopped (2)
• Green bell pepper, chopped (1)
• Red chili peppers (3-4, optional)

Spices

• Ground coriander (1 teaspoon)
• Ground cumin (1 teaspoon)
• Aleppo pepper (1 teaspoon)
• Ground turmeric (1/2 teaspoon)
• Ground allspice (1/2 teaspoon)

Liquids

• Chopped tomatoes with juice (15 oz can)
• Low-sodium vegetable broth (6 cups)

Finishing Touches

• Lemon juice (1)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (1 oz)

How to Make Chickpea Instant Pot Soup (Stovetop Option)

Step 1: Soak the Chickpeas

Soak the dry chickpeas overnight in plenty of water. This step softens the beans and reduces cooking time. After soaking, drain them well.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables and Spices

In your Instant Pot or large pot:
1. Heat a splash of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Stir in minced garlic followed by carrots, green bell pepper, and optional red chili peppers.
4. Sprinkle in ground coriander, cumin, Aleppo pepper, turmeric, and allspice. Stir until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add soaked chickpeas into the pot along with chopped tomatoes and low-sodium vegetable broth:
1. Stir everything together until well mixed.
2. If using an Instant Pot, seal the lid and set to high pressure for 15-25 minutes depending on desired texture.

Step 4: Release Pressure

Once cooking is complete:
– Allow pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes before doing a quick release.

Step 5: Finish the Soup

After releasing pressure:
1. Gently stir in fresh lemon juice and chopped cilantro.
2. Drizzle with more olive oil before serving.

Now you have a delicious Chickpea Instant Pot Soup ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Chickpea Instant Pot Soup (Stovetop Option)

Chickpea Instant Pot Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a light meal or something hearty, there are plenty of options to elevate your soup experience.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A simple green salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

Pair with Bread

• Crusty bread or pita can be perfect for dipping into the chickpea soup, enhancing the meal’s texture and flavor.

Garnish with Yogurt

• A dollop of Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt on top adds creaminess while balancing the spices in the soup.

Serve Over Rice

• Spoon the chickpea soup over cooked rice or quinoa for a filling meal that combines flavors and textures.

Top with Avocado

• Slices of avocado can add richness and healthy fats, making each bowl even more satisfying.

Sprinkle with Nuts

• Toasted pine nuts or almonds on top will add crunch and an extra layer of flavor to your soup.

How to Perfect Chickpea Instant Pot Soup (Stovetop Option)

To ensure your Chickpea Instant Pot Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Soak chickpeas adequately: Soaking the chickpeas overnight softens them, ensuring they cook evenly and thoroughly in the soup.

• Adjust spices to taste: Feel free to increase or decrease spices like cumin and coriander based on your flavor preference for a customized dish.

• Use fresh vegetables: Freshly chopped vegetables not only enhance flavor but also add vibrant colors to your soup.

• Experiment with toppings: Various toppings like feta cheese, fresh herbs, or chili flakes can bring different flavors and textures to each bowl.

Best Side Dishes for Chickpea Instant Pot Soup (Stovetop Option)

Pairing side dishes with your Chickpea Instant Pot Soup can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Hummus: Creamy hummus served with pita chips or fresh veggies makes for a delightful appetizer before your soup.

2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables can complement the flavors of the soup while adding nutrients.

3. Tabbouleh Salad: This refreshing parsley salad brings brightness to your meal and pairs well with Middle Eastern flavors.

4. Stuffed Grape Leaves: Dolmas filled with rice and herbs offer a savory bite that goes wonderfully alongside chickpea soup.

5. Fattoush Salad: This crispy salad is made with toasted pita bread and fresh veggies, adding crunch and freshness to your meal.

6. Olives: A small bowl of marinated olives provides a briny contrast that enhances the overall flavor profile of the meal.

7. Cheese Platter: Include some cheeses like feta or goat cheese to offer creamy options that balance out the spices in the soup.

8. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic grilled cheese pairs perfectly for dunking into your warm bowl, providing comfort alongside nutrition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chickpea soup can be simple, but there are common mistakes that might affect your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Soaking: Not soaking chickpeas overnight can lead to longer cooking times and uneven texture. Always soak them in plenty of water for at least 8 hours.
• Overcrowding the Instant Pot: Adding too many ingredients may cause the soup to not cook evenly. Ensure you follow the recipe quantities closely.
• Neglecting Spices: Forgetting to properly measure spices can result in bland soup. Measure carefully and consider adjusting based on your taste preferences.
• Ignoring Natural Pressure Release: Quick releasing pressure too soon may impact flavor and texture. Allow the pot to naturally release for at least 10 minutes.
• Overcooking Vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Add them according to the recipe’s instructions for the best results.
• Forgetting Fresh Ingredients: Omitting fresh herbs like cilantro or lemon juice will dull the brightness of the dish. Always add these at the end for maximum flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chickpea soup in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chickpea Instant Pot Soup (Stovetop Option)

• Use freezer-safe containers to store soup.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Chickpea Instant Pot Soup (Stovetop Option)

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat soup in a covered oven-safe dish.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chickpea Instant Pot Soup (Stovetop Option).

Can I use canned chickpeas instead?

Yes, you can substitute canned chickpeas. Reduce cooking time since they are already cooked.

How do I add more flavor to my soup?

Consider adding more spices or herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra depth.

What if I don’t have an Instant Pot?

You can easily make this soup on the stovetop by simmering all ingredients until tender.

Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! The Chickpea Instant Pot Soup (Stovetop Option) is entirely plant-based and vegan-friendly.

Final Thoughts

This Chickpea Instant Pot Soup (Stovetop Option) is not only hearty and warming but also versatile enough to fit various dietary preferences. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust spices based on what you enjoy. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!