Vegetable and Chickpea Soup with Yogurt Sauce

This hearty and nutritious Vegetable and Chickpea Soup with Yogurt Sauce is a comforting dish full of flavor and texture. The combination of chickpeas, a variety of vegetables, and a rich, creamy yogurt sauce makes this soup a complete meal that is both satisfying and healthy. The yogurt sauce adds a tangy, creamy element that perfectly complements the savory vegetables, making each spoonful a delicious treat. Whether you’re looking for a warm, filling lunch or a light dinner, this soup is a perfect choice for any occasion.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 100 g chickpeas
• 1.5 liters (7 glasses) water
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• Olive oil (for frying)
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 1 pepperoni, finely chopped
• 1 carrot, finely chopped
• 1 turnip, finely chopped
• 1 leek, finely chopped
• 2 red peppers, chopped
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• Salt, to taste
• 2 g sugar
• Red pepper, to taste
• Rosemary, to taste
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and chopped
• Fresh dill, chopped
• Fresh parsley, chopped

For the Yogurt Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons natural yogurt
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• Chopped dill

Directions

Prepare the Chickpeas:

1. Soak the chickpeas in water for a few hours or overnight to soften.
2. Drain and place the soaked chickpeas in a pot with 1.5 liters (7 glasses) of water.
3. Cover and cook for 40 minutes until the chickpeas are tender.

Prepare the Vegetables:

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Fry the chopped onion until it becomes translucent.
3. Add the chopped celery to the pan with the onions and mix well.
4. Add the pepperoni, carrot, turnip, and leek. Stir well and cover the pan.
5. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add More Ingredients:

1. Add the chopped red peppers to the pan and mix well.
2. Add the tomato paste, salt, sugar, red pepper, rosemary, and minced garlic.
3. Stir everything together and cover the pan. Let it cook over low heat for another 2 minutes.

Prepare the Potatoes:

1. Add the chopped potatoes to the pot with the cooked chickpeas.
2. Add the sautéed vegetables from the pan to the pot with the chickpeas and potatoes. Mix well.
3. Cover the pot and cook for another 20 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender.

Prepare the Yogurt Sauce:

1. In a small bowl, mix the natural yogurt, mayonnaise, and chopped dill.
2. Stir until the mixture is smooth. The sauce is ready to serve.

Finish the Soup:

1. Chop some fresh parsley and add it to the soup. Stir well to incorporate.

Serve:

1. Serve the soup hot, garnished with the prepared yogurt sauce.
2. Enjoy your delicious vegetable and chickpea soup!

Nutritional Benefits

• Chickpeas: High in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, chickpeas promote digestive health and provide sustained energy.
• Vegetables: A rich source of vitamins A, C, K, and antioxidants, vegetables like carrots, turnips, and red peppers support immunity, skin health, and overall well-being.
• Yogurt: Contains probiotics that promote gut health, while also providing calcium for strong bones and teeth.
• Dill: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, dill adds a refreshing flavor while supporting digestion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Vegetable and Chickpea Soup is the perfect blend of comforting flavors, packed with wholesome ingredients that make each bite satisfying. The combination of tender chickpeas, vegetables, and creamy yogurt sauce creates a balanced and nourishing meal. The soup is not only easy to prepare, but it’s also a great way to incorporate a variety of vegetables into your diet, making it a healthy option for any meal. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly day or serving it to friends and family, this soup is sure to become a go-to favorite.

Tips

1. For a Richer Soup: Add a splash of vegetable broth or use vegetable stock instead of water to deepen the flavor.
2. Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, add chili flakes or chopped fresh chilies to the soup.
3. Use Different Veggies: Feel free to swap or add other vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or peas to suit your preferences.
4. Storage: This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
5. Vegan Option: For a vegan version, use plant-based mayonnaise and yogurt.

Variations to Try

1. Creamy Soup: Blend half of the soup for a creamy texture while keeping some chunks for added texture.
2. Lemon Zest: Add a bit of lemon zest to the soup for a fresh, zesty flavor that complements the dill.
3. Herbed Variation: Try adding thyme or basil instead of rosemary for a different herbal twist.

Conclusion

This Vegetable and Chickpea Soup with Yogurt Sauce is a deliciously hearty dish that brings together the goodness of vegetables and chickpeas, making it both nutritious and satisfying. The creamy yogurt sauce adds a tangy richness that perfectly complements the flavors of the soup. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or enjoying it as a light, wholesome meal, this soup is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.

5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare this soup ahead of time. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld together.

2. Can I freeze this soup?
   Yes, you can freeze this soup for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat before serving.

3. Can I substitute chickpeas with another legume?
   Yes, you can substitute chickpeas with lentils or white beans for a different variation. Adjust the cooking time depending on the type of legume used.

4. Can I use store-bought yogurt instead of homemade?
   Yes, you can use store-bought natural or Greek yogurt for the sauce. Just make sure it’s plain and unsweetened for the best results.

5. How can I make this soup spicier?
   Add fresh chilies, chili flakes, or cayenne pepper to increase the heat and add an extra layer of flavor to the soup.