Chickpea cream soup with smoked meat

Chickpea Cream Soup with Smoked Meat

If you’re looking for a soup recipe that harmoniously combines the rich flavor of chickpeas with the irresistible aroma of smoked meat, you’ve come to the right place! This chickpea cream soup with smoked meat is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly tasty and comforting. Perfect for cool evenings or a family meal, this recipe will win you over with every spoonful.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 250 g dried chickpeas
- 2 carrots
- 1 red onion
- 1 stalk of celery
- Smoked pork ribs (the amount depends on preference, but about 200 g is ideal)
- 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Whole grain bread croutons, for serving

A brief history of chickpeas:
Chickpeas are a staple ingredient in many culinary cultures, used for thousands of years due to their nutritional values and versatility. Rich in proteins, fiber, and minerals, chickpeas have been a staple food for many civilizations, known for their ability to provide energy and support health. Combined with smoked meat, chickpeas become a source of high-quality protein, adding flavor and taste.

Step by step for a perfect cream soup:

1. Soak the chickpeas:
In the evening, place the dried chickpeas in a large bowl with cold water. Make sure the water is enough to cover the chickpeas, as they will swell overnight. This step is essential for achieving a pleasant texture and even cooking of the chickpeas.

2. Prepare the vegetables:
The next day, rinse the chickpeas in several waters to remove impurities. Peel the onion, carrots, and celery, then chop them finely. These vegetables will add a special flavor to your soup.

3. Sauté the vegetables:
In a large pot, add 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, stirring frequently. Let the vegetables sauté for about 10 minutes, until they become soft and fragrant.

4. Add the chickpeas:
After the vegetables have softened, add the well-rinsed chickpeas to the pot. Gently stir to combine the ingredients.

5. Cook the soup:
Add enough water to the pot to cover the ingredients by about 5 cm. Once the water starts to boil, add the smoked ribs, which have been washed beforehand to remove excess salt. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the chickpeas become tender.

6. Create the cream:
After the chickpeas are cooked, remove the smoked ribs from the pot. Use an immersion blender to turn the soup into a fine cream. If you prefer a thicker texture, you can leave a few whole chickpeas.

7. Adjust the taste:
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, you can also add a few drops of olive oil for extra flavor.

8. Serve:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with whole grain bread croutons and, if you like, a drizzle of raw olive oil on top. This will add a delicious taste and turn each serving into an unforgettable culinary experience.

Variations and suggestions:
If you prefer a vegan version or simply want to try something different, you can omit the smoked meat. Replace the ribs with herbs like thyme or rosemary to add extra flavor. You can also add other vegetables, such as potatoes or zucchini, to make the soup even more nutritious.

Useful tips:
- Make sure the chickpeas are well-soaked to avoid long cooking times.
- If you have leftover cooked chickpeas, you can use the surplus to make hummus or salads.
- The soup can be refrigerated and consumed the next day, and the flavors will intensify even more.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned chickpeas?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Canned chickpeas are already cooked and can be added in the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.

2. What are the nutritional benefits of chickpeas?
Chickpeas are rich in proteins, fiber, iron, and vitamins. They are ideal for vegans and vegetarians, providing an excellent source of nutrients.

3. What other recipes can I combine with this soup?
Chickpea cream soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a simple dessert, such as a fruit tart or a chocolate cake.

This chickpea cream soup with smoked meat is not just a recipe but a culinary experience that will bring you closer to gastronomic traditions. Savor every spoonful and enjoy the comfort and warmth it offers!