Delicious and Nutritious: How to Make Orzo & Chickpea Soup from Scratch
As the temperatures drop, there's nothing more inviting than a steaming bowl of homemade soup. This Orzo & Chickpea Soup is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a wholesome dish that packs a nutritional punch. It makes great use of pantry staples and fresh vegetables, making it a perfect choice for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients You Will Need
Before we start cooking, let's gather everything you'll need for this healthy Orzo & Chickpea Soup. Here’s the list:
2 tbsp oil (like olive or vegetable)
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery sticks, chopped
2 tbsp tomato puree
3 garlic cloves, chopped
2 sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme
1 liter vegetable stock
400g tin chopped tomatoes
400g tin chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
Parmesan rind (optional, but recommended)
150g orzo pasta
Olive oil for serving
With these ingredients, you’re all set to create a wonderfully flavorful and hearty soup!
Preparing the Base
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add your chopped onion. Sauté it for about 5 minutes until it turns translucent. Onions are crucial because they form the aromatic backbone of the soup.
Next, add the chopped carrots and celery, which is known as mirepoix. This mix should cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until softened. Mirepoix contributes both flavor and essential vitamins—like vitamin A from carrots and vitamin K from celery.
Adding Flavorful Components
Once your base is ready, stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato puree and 3 minced garlic cloves. Let this mixture cook for 2-3 minutes. You'll notice the garlic becoming fragrant, which brings an aromatic layer to the soup.
Then, introduce your herbs. Pick either two sprigs of rosemary or thyme based on your preference. Rosemary's bold, pine-like flavor contrasts nicely with the more subtle sweetness of thyme. Both are excellent choices that will elevate the soup.
The Main Ingredients
Now let's build the bulk of the soup. Pour in 1 liter of vegetable stock and add the 400g tin of chopped tomatoes. If you're looking for a deeper flavor, toss in your Parmesan rind—this adds a unique depth as it melts into the broth. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
After it starts simmering, add the rinsed chickpeas. Chickpeas not only enhance the soup's texture, but they also add protein, making the dish filling. In fact, a 400g tin of chickpeas contains about 14 grams of protein—perfect for a hearty meal.
Cooking the Orzo
After simmering for about 10-15 minutes, it’s time to stir in the 150g of orzo. This tiny pasta cooks quickly, usually in about 8-10 minutes, soaking up all the flavors of the soup. Stir gently to combine everything, and continue simmering until the orzo is tender.
Take this opportunity to taste your creation! Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your liking.
Serving the Soup
With your orzo perfectly cooked, it's time to serve! Ladle the soup into bowls, and don’t forget to drizzle some olive oil over the top for an added richness.
To enhance the presentation and flavor, consider grating fresh Parmesan cheese on top. This addition not only offers a savory punch but also makes your soup visually appealing.
Storing Leftovers
One great advantage of soup is its convenience for storage. If you have leftovers, let the soup cool completely before putting it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze it for up to three months.
When reheating, add a splash of vegetable stock or water. This will help bring back the original consistency, as the orzo may absorb some liquid while stored.
A Bowl of Comfort Awaits
This Orzo & Chickpea Soup isn't just a meal; it's a warm embrace. With straightforward preparation and nutritious ingredients, it's perfect for a chilly evening or when you crave comfort food. Making this soup from scratch allows you to control the flavors and ensure a nourishing option for dinner.
Whether you're an experienced cook or trying this out for the first time, this recipe is easy and rewarding. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a bowl of warmth that promises to leave you satisfied and cozy. Happy cooking!
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