Greek Chickpea Soup Recipe

Welcome to an exploration of one of the most comforting and nutritious dishes to grace the Mediterranean table: Greek Chickpea Soup, also known as Revithosoupa. This dish is an iconic, heartwarming staple in Greek cuisine, perfect for cozy dinners, especially when the weather gets colder or when you’re in the mood for something hearty but healthy.

Revithosoupa is a beautiful blend of simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a rich, flavorful soup that’s both satisfying and nourishing. While chickpeas (or revithia) are the main star of this soup, the addition of fresh herbs, lemon, and olive oil brings the dish to life with bright, aromatic flavors. It’s also an incredibly versatile recipe, allowing for modifications to suit various dietary preferences or ingredient availability.

In this post, we’re diving deep into the recipe, breaking it down with detailed steps, ingredient breakdowns, and some helpful tips to ensure your chickpea soup turns out perfect every time. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

Greek Chickpea Soup Recipe

Let’s get to the heart of the matter – the recipe itself! Below is a simple yet delicious take on Greek Chickpea Soup. It celebrates the richness of Mediterranean flavors while being easy to prepare. The best part? You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry.

Ingredients Needed

Before we dive into the cooking instructions, here’s everything you’ll need to make this satisfying soup:

• 1 ½ cups dried chickpeas (or about 3-4 cups canned chickpeas, if you’re in a pinch)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, diced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin, for richness)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional, but adds great depth)
• 1 bay leaf
• 8 cups water (or low-sodium vegetable broth for extra flavor)
• Juice of 1 lemon (this is key for that zingy, refreshing kick)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: A dollop of Greek yogurt (for a creamy finish)

You’ll notice that this recipe doesn’t rely on a long list of exotic ingredients. That’s part of its charm. The Mediterranean diet is all about simple, fresh, and flavorful foods.

Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients lined up, let’s walk through the cooking process:

1. Prepare The Chickpeas

   • If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight in a large bowl of water (about 8 hours). This will help soften them and reduce cooking time. If you’re short on time, you can do a quick soak method: place the chickpeas in a pot, cover with water, bring to a boil, and let them sit covered for 1 hour before draining and rinsing.
   • If you’re using canned chickpeas, just rinse them well and you’re good to go.

2. Cook The Chickpeas

   • In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing for about 5 minutes, until the onions are soft and translucent.
   • Add the diced carrots and potatoes, and sauté for an additional 5 minutes to lightly soften them.

3. Add Water And Seasonings

   • Stir in the chickpeas, oregano, thyme, bay leaf, and salt and pepper. Pour in the water (or broth if you prefer) and bring the mixture to a boil.
   • Once boiling, lower the heat and let the soup simmer for about 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until the chickpeas are tender and the flavors have melded together. If using canned chickpeas, the cooking time will be significantly shorter – around 30 minutes.

4. Blend (optional)

   • If you prefer a smoother, creamier soup, you can use an immersion blender to purée part of the soup or transfer half of it to a regular blender, then return it to the pot. This will give the soup a velvety texture without losing the rustic charm of the chickpeas and vegetables.

5. Finishing Touches

   • Once the soup is done, stir in the lemon juice for that fresh, tangy flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
   • Ladle the soup into bowls, drizzle with the remaining olive oil, and garnish with fresh parsley. A dollop of Greek yogurt on top adds a nice creamy touch if you’re feeling indulgent.

Ingredient Insights

Let’s take a moment to discuss the key ingredients in this dish and what they bring to the table.

• Chickpeas: Packed with protein and fiber, chickpeas are a powerhouse ingredient in this soup. They add substance, making the soup hearty and filling. Plus, they absorb the flavors of the broth, giving the soup a satisfying depth.
• Olive oil: As with most Greek dishes, olive oil is a foundational ingredient. It imparts a smooth richness to the soup and enhances the overall flavor. Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its robust, peppery flavor that’s essential in Mediterranean cooking.
• Lemon: The lemon juice brings a much-needed zing to balance the creamy richness of the chickpeas and olive oil. It’s also a common ingredient in Greek cooking, offering brightness and freshness to any dish.
• Oregano and thyme: These classic Mediterranean herbs not only add a fragrant aroma but also deepen the flavor profile of the soup. Oregano, in particular, is known for its warm, slightly bitter taste, while thyme offers a subtle earthy note.

Expert Tips

To help you elevate your Greek Chickpea Soup to the next level, here are a few expert tips:

• Use homemade stock: If possible, try using homemade vegetable or chicken broth instead of water. This adds an extra layer of richness to the soup.
• Don’t rush the cooking time: If using dried chickpeas, allow them to cook long enough so they fully soften and absorb the flavors. A slow simmer results in a creamier texture and more developed flavor.
• Season in layers: Seasoning throughout the cooking process (not just at the end) helps to build layers of flavor. Taste as you go, and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs accordingly.
• Use a mix of herbs: Feel free to experiment with herbs like rosemary or marjoram for a slightly different twist. Just keep in mind that a little goes a long way – you don’t want to overwhelm the delicate chickpea flavor.

Recipe Variations

Greek Chickpea Soup is incredibly versatile, so don’t hesitate to make it your own! Here are some variations you can try:

• Add greens: For a nutrient boost, stir in some spinach, kale, or swiss chard towards the end of cooking. The greens will wilt into the soup, adding color and texture.
• Spicy kick: If you like some heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a sliced jalapeño along with the onions and garlic to infuse the soup with a bit of spice.
• Add tomatoes: For a richer, tangier base, you could throw in a can of crushed tomatoes or some fresh diced tomatoes during the cooking process. This adds a nice balance to the earthy chickpeas.
• Make it vegan: This recipe is naturally vegan, but if you’re looking to make it even more plant-based, skip the Greek yogurt and top it with a dollop of vegan sour cream or tahini for that creamy finish.
• Slow cooker option: If you prefer a hands-off approach, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Just throw all the ingredients in (except the lemon and parsley) and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Stir in the lemon juice before serving.

Final Words

Greek Chickpea Soup is a meal that has it all: it’s comforting, nourishing, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Whether you’re craving a bowl on a chilly evening or want something filling yet light for lunch, this soup checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s made from ingredients that are wholesome, affordable, and easy to find.

If you’re a fan of rustic, simple meals that pack a punch of flavor, Revithosoupa will surely become a go-to in your kitchen. The fact that it’s so customizable means you can adjust it to suit your tastes, dietary needs, and whatever ingredients you have on hand.