Chickpea Potato Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chickpea Potato Soup is the perfect balance of hearty, creamy, and flavorful. With the earthy taste of chickpeas and potatoes, paired with the warming spices of cumin and smoked paprika, each spoonful is a delight. It’s also quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy days. The addition of fresh lemon juice brightens the soup and adds an extra layer of depth to its flavor. Not to mention, it’s incredibly adaptable and can be customized with extra vegetables or protein as you like!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 can (15 oz) low-sodium chickpeas, rinsed and drained

• 2 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, diced (about 2 cups)

• 2 medium carrots, chopped (about 1 cup)

• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Juice of 1 lemon

Directions

1. Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and carrots, cooking until the onions become translucent (about 5 minutes).

2. Add the spices and garlic: Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Add the potatoes and chickpeas: Add the diced potatoes and rinsed chickpeas to the pot, stirring to coat them with the spices.

4. Simmer: Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring the ingredients are covered by a couple of inches of liquid. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

5. Add lemon juice: Just before serving, stir in the fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add greens: Stir in some fresh spinach, kale, or Swiss chard during the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrients and color.

• Protein boost: Add cooked chicken or turkey for a heartier meal, or stir in some quinoa or lentils for added protein.

• Spicy twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped chili for a little heat.

• Dairy option: Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.

• Veggie-packed: Toss in some zucchini, bell peppers, or tomatoes for more veggie goodness.

Storage/Reheating

To Store:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To Reheat:
Reheat in a pot over low heat until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Can I use different beans instead of chickpeas?

Yes! You can substitute chickpeas with white beans, navy beans, or cannellini beans for a slightly different flavor and texture.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup keeps well in the fridge for a few days and even tastes better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Can I make this soup spicy?

Yes, if you like spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or even a chopped fresh chili pepper to the soup for a kick.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of Yukon Gold potatoes?

Yes, sweet potatoes can be substituted for Yukon Gold potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor.

Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?

Certainly! If you’re not following a vegetarian or vegan diet, you can use chicken broth in place of vegetable broth.

What if I don’t have smoked paprika?

Regular paprika can be used as a substitute, though it won’t have the smoky depth. You could also try a small amount of liquid smoke or a bit of cumin for extra flavor.

How can I make the soup creamier?

To make the soup creamier, you can blend part or all of the soup once the potatoes are tender. Use an immersion blender or transfer to a blender for a silky smooth texture.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free vegetable broth.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like celery, bell peppers, or even corn for extra flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Chickpea Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort dish—creamy, flavorful, and full of heart. Whether you’re looking for a light yet satisfying lunch or a cozy dinner, this soup is sure to hit the spot. The combination of chickpeas, potatoes, and aromatic spices creates a warm, hearty meal that is simple to make and endlessly adaptable. Whip it up for your next family dinner or enjoy it as a quick meal after a long day.