Hummus Soup is a delightful and innovative dish that takes the classic flavors of hummus and transforms them into a warm, comforting soup. This creamy, nutritious soup is perfect for any time of year and can be enjoyed as a light meal or a hearty starter. With its rich flavors and velvety texture, Hummus Soup is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
To make Hummus Soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed (or cooked chickpeas)
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon cumin (optional)
Method
- Sauté Garlic: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute). Be careful not to burn it.
- Combine Ingredients: Add drained chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, cumin (if using), salt, pepper, and broth to the pot.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Blend Until Smooth: Using an immersion blender or transferring in batches to a blender, blend until completely smooth.
- Adjust Consistency: If desired, adjust thickness by adding more broth until you reach your preferred consistency.
- Serve Hot: Ladle into bowls and top with your choice of toppings such as olive oil drizzle or fresh herbs.
Why Does This Recipe Work?
This recipe works beautifully because it leverages the core ingredients of traditional hummus—chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil—and combines them in a way that enhances their natural flavors. The soup is not only creamy but also packed with protein and fiber from the chickpeas, making it both satisfying and nutritious.
The addition of vegetable or chicken broth creates a luscious base that allows the flavors to meld together seamlessly. Blending the ingredients until smooth ensures a silky texture that is reminiscent of your favorite hummus dip but in a comforting soup form.
Should I Remove the Chickpea Skins?
While it’s not strictly necessary to remove the skins from canned chickpeas when making Hummus Soup, doing so can result in an even creamier texture. The skins can sometimes add a slight graininess to the soup, so if you prefer a velvety finish, consider removing them.
To easily skin your chickpeas, simply rub them between your fingers or use a towel to help loosen the skins. This step may take a little extra time, but it can make a noticeable difference in the final texture of your soup.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Quality Ingredients: The quality of your olive oil and tahini can significantly impact the flavor of your soup. Opt for high-quality extra virgin olive oil and pure tahini for the best results.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth you add. For a thinner consistency, simply add more broth until you reach your desired thickness.
- Blend Well: For an ultra-smooth soup, use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a high-speed blender. Blend until completely smooth for that dreamy texture.
- Season to Taste: Don’t forget to taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional lemon juice to suit your palate.
Toppings and Substitutions
Hummus Soup is incredibly versatile and can be topped with various ingredients to enhance its flavor and presentation:
Toppings:
- Olive Oil Drizzle: A swirl of high-quality olive oil adds richness.
- Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or cilantro brings freshness.
- Spices: A sprinkle of paprika or sumac adds color and flavor.
- Crunchy Chickpeas: Roasted chickpeas provide texture.
- Pita Chips: Serve with crispy pita chips for added crunch.
Substitutions:
- Broth Options: Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option or chicken broth for added depth.
- Tahini Alternatives: If you don’t have tahini on hand, try using sunflower seed butter or almond butter as substitutes.
- Chickpea Alternatives: For a different flavor profile, consider using white beans or lentils instead of chickpeas.
Make Ahead
Hummus Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat until heated through.
If you want to freeze it, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove.
Dreamy, Creamy Soups
Creamy soups are comfort food at their finest. They offer warmth and satisfaction while being incredibly versatile. From classic tomato bisque to rich potato leek soup, there’s something about a creamy bowl of goodness that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Hummus Soup fits perfectly into this category—offering all the creaminess without heavy dairy products.
This soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients from its plant-based ingredients. It’s an excellent option for those looking to enjoy healthy meals without sacrificing flavor.
Hummus Soup
Hummus Soup combines all of your favorite elements from traditional hummus into one comforting bowl. It’s easy to prepare and makes use of pantry staples while delivering exceptional taste.
Conclusion
Hummus Soup is an innovative dish that brings together beloved flavors in an entirely new form. It’s simple yet satisfying—perfect for any occasion! Enjoy this delightful recipe that celebrates healthful eating without compromising on taste!
