Dinner

North African Chickpea Soup Recipe

Name: North African Chickpea Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: North African
Ingredients: 1 yellow or white onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; ½ tsp ground coriander; ½ tsp ground cinnamon; ½ tsp sumac; 3 Tbsp harissa powder or seasoning; 6 cups low sodium vegetable broth (or stock); Salt to taste; 2 – 15 oz cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed (or 3 cups cooked chickpeas); 4-6 cups fresh kale, finely chopped (can substitute swiss chard, collard greens, bok choy, or a combination); Small pinch saffron (optional); Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish; Lemon zest, for garnish

ByMatteo Rossi October 23, 2025October 23, 2025

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Introduction

This North African Chickpea Soup is a flavorful and hearty dish packed with warm spices and fresh greens. It’s a nourishing, easy-to-make meal perfect for any day you want something comforting and vibrant.

A white bowl filled with a warm soup consisting of three main layers: the base is a smooth orange broth, the middle layer features pale chickpeas and translucent onion pieces, and the top layer has roughly chopped dark green leafy vegetables scattered throughout. A silver spoon rests inside the bowl, partially submerged on the right side. Small green herb bits are sprinkled on and around the bowl, which sits on a white marbled surface next to a red woven textured cloth. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 yellow or white onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp ground coriander
½ tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp sumac
3 Tbsp harissa powder or seasoning
6 cups low sodium vegetable broth (or stock)
2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed (or 3 cups cooked chickpeas)
1 small pinch saffron (optional)
4–6 cups fresh kale, finely chopped (or swiss chard, collard greens, bok choy, or a combination)
Fresh cilantro or parsley and lemon zest, for garnish
Salt, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and dry sauté (or with a splash of water) for 4 to 5 minutes until the onion is lightly browned.
Step 2: Add the minced garlic and spices (ground coriander, cinnamon, sumac, and harissa powder). Stir to combine and cook for about 1 minute until aromatic.
Step 3: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the drained chickpeas. Bring the soup to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Add the chopped kale (or other greens) and saffron if using. Stir carefully to mix, then cover the pot and turn off the heat. Let the greens wilt in the residual heat until they are cooked but still firm (al dente).
Step 5: Garnish the soup with fresh cilantro or parsley and lemon zest. Add salt to taste before serving. Enjoy your vibrant North African Chickpea Soup!

Tips & Variations

Try using different greens like swiss chard or collard greens for varied texture and flavor.
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving for an extra bright finish.
If you prefer a thicker soup, blend half of the chickpeas with some broth before adding the greens.

Storage

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it becomes too thick. This soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.