Greek Chickpea Soup (Revithosoupa): A Nutritious and Flavorful Dish

Ingredients: A Simple and Nutritious Combination

Here’s what you’ll need to make a delicious and authentic Greek chickpea soup:

• Chickpeas: 2 cups of dried chickpeas (or 3 cans of cooked chickpeas, drained and rinsed).
• Onion: 1 large onion, finely chopped for sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced for added savoriness.
• Olive Oil: 1/4 cup for a rich Mediterranean base.
• Vegetable Broth: 4-5 cups to create the soup base.
• Bay Leaves: 2 bay leaves for a subtle herbal note.
• Lemon Juice: Juice from 1-2 lemons for brightness and tang.
• Fresh Parsley: 2-3 tablespoons, chopped for garnish and extra flavor.
• Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon for a classic Greek flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste for seasoning.
• Optional: Crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Greek Chickpea Soup

1. Soak the Chickpeas (if using dried chickpeas):

• Place the dried chickpeas in a large bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak overnight or for at least 8 hours. Drain and rinse them before cooking. If using canned chickpeas, simply drain and rinse them before adding to the soup.

1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

1. Cook the Chickpeas:

• Add the soaked chickpeas (or canned chickpeas) to the pot along with the vegetable broth and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the soup cook for about 45-60 minutes if using dried chickpeas (or 20-30 minutes if using canned chickpeas), until the chickpeas are tender.

1. Add the Seasonings:

• Stir in the dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. If the soup is too thick, you can add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

1. Blend for Creaminess (optional):

• For a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or by transferring a cup or two of the  soup to a blender. Blend until smooth, then stir it back into the pot.

1. Add Lemon Juice:

• Remove the bay leaves and stir in the fresh  lemon juice. The lemon adds a bright, tangy flavor that balances the richness of the chickpeas and olive oil.

1. Serve:

• Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and an extra drizzle of olive oil if desired. Serve with crusty bread or pita on the side for dipping.

Variations and Tips

• Add Vegetables: You can add diced carrots, celery, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Make It Creamy: Blend half of the soup for a creamier texture or add a spoonful of tahini for a rich, nutty flavor.
• Use Canned Chickpeas: If you’re short on time, canned chickpeas work perfectly in this recipe and significantly cut down the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

Greek chickpea soup is delicious on its own, but here are a few serving ideas to complement the dish:

• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread or pita bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
• Side Salad: Pair the soup with a light Greek salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta for a complete meal.
• Olive Oil Drizzle: Add an extra drizzle of good-quality olive oil on top for a rich, velvety finish.

Health Benefits of Greek Chickpea Soup

This soup is packed with health benefits, thanks to the chickpeas, olive oil, and fresh herbs. Chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, which support digestion and help you stay full longer. Olive oil is rich in heart-healthy fats and antioxidants, while the lemon and herbs add a burst of vitamin C and other essential nutrients.

Storing and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: This soup freezes well! Let the soup cool completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

Conclusion: A Nutritious and Delicious Mediterranean Soup

Greek Chickpea Soup (Revithosoupa) is a flavorful, comforting, and nutritious dish that highlights the simplicity and health benefits of the Mediterranean diet. With tender chickpeas, bright lemon, and fragrant herbs, this soup is both satisfying and easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a light, healthy meal or a hearty dinner, this chickpea soup is sure to become a go-to recipe. Enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread and a drizzle of olive oil for the perfect Mediterranean experience!