Name: Chickpea Harissa Vegetable Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: North African-inspired
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 carrot, sliced; 1 zucchini, chopped; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1–2 teaspoons harissa paste (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt & pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

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If you crave a bowl that warms the heart and excites the palate, this Chickpea Harissa Vegetable Soup Recipe will quickly become your go-to comfort. Imagine tender chickpeas mingling with vibrant vegetables, all wrapped in the glowing heat of harissa and fragrant cumin. This soup isn’t just hearty and healthy — it’s a celebration of bold flavors and simple ingredients coming together for a deliciously satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day you need a little spicy soul food.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white plate filled with four different chopped vegetables arranged in sections: bright orange cubes of carrot, light green and white diced zucchini, deep red chopped bell pepper, and another section of the zucchini. Around the plate, there are small white bowls with various ingredients, including a bowl of white diced onions, a bowl of light brown chickpeas, a bowl of smooth orange liquid, a bowl of smooth red liquid, a bowl of coarse red powder, and a bowl with minced garlic and small seeds. All the items are set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Chickpea Harissa Vegetable Soup Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to add layers of flavor, inviting textures, and splash of color to your bowl.

Olive oil: The base that adds richness and helps soften the aromatics perfectly.
Onion, diced: Provides a sweet, savory foundation when sautéed.
Garlic, minced: Infuses the soup with a warm, welcoming depth.
Carrot, sliced: Brings natural sweetness and an appealing bite.
Zucchini, chopped: Adds freshness and subtle earthiness while soaking up the spices.
Chickpeas, drained: The star legume offering protein, texture, and heartiness.
Diced tomatoes (canned): Introduce acidity and vibrant color that brighten every spoonful.
Vegetable broth: Forms the savory, flavorful liquid base for the soup.
Harissa paste: The bold spice blend that delivers smoky heat — adjust to your liking!
Cumin: Complements the harissa with earthy warmth and depth.
Salt & pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing all those wonderful flavors.
Fresh parsley: A final sprinkle to add a fresh, herbaceous note and pretty color.

How to Make Chickpea Harissa Vegetable Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the aromatics

Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, minced garlic, and sliced carrot, stirring occasionally until everything softens and releases a mouthwatering aroma. This simple step builds the base flavor that makes this soup sing.

Step 2: Add the vegetables and chickpeas

Next, toss in the chopped zucchini and drained chickpeas, giving the pot a good stir. This introduces lovely textures and layers of earthy goodness that make each bite interesting and filling.

Step 3: Pour in liquids and spices

Pour the canned diced tomatoes and vegetable broth into the pot, followed by the star flavor components: harissa paste and cumin. Stir everything together until well combined, creating that rich, spicy broth that is the hallmark of this Chickpea Harissa Vegetable Soup Recipe.

Step 4: Simmer gently

Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes. This allows the vegetables to soften beautifully and the flavors to meld into a harmonious, comforting bowl of goodness. Don’t forget to taste and adjust salt, pepper, or harissa for your preferred heat level.

How to Serve Chickpea Harissa Vegetable Soup Recipe

A white bowl on a white marbled surface contains a stew with three main layers. The base layer is a thick, red tomato sauce with visible herbs. On top of this sits a generous layer of light beige chickpeas, soft and round. Scattered on the chickpeas are bright green spinach leaves, slightly wilted and shiny. A toasted round slice of bread leans on the side of the bowl, light golden brown with a crisp texture. In the top right corner, a woman's hand holds a piece of bread with a bit of the stew on it, adding a warm and inviting touch. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a burst of color and a fresh, slightly peppery crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the rich, spicy broth. You could also consider a dollop of plain yogurt or a drizzle of good olive oil for extra creaminess.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread for dipping or warm pita to scoop every last drop. For a full meal, serve it alongside a crisp green salad or roasted veggies to continue the vibrant, wholesome theme.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Chickpea Harissa Vegetable Soup Recipe in individual bowls garnished with a lemon wedge for a zingy finish. Or ladle it over cooked grains like quinoa or couscous for a hearty, one-pot wonder that impresses every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftover soup into airtight containers and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to develop even more as it rests.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully, making it an excellent option for batch cooking. Leave out the fresh parsley before freezing, and use freezer-friendly containers or bags to store portions for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of broth or water to bring it back to your desired consistency.

FAQs

Can I adjust the spiciness of the Chickpea Harissa Vegetable Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! Harissa paste varies in heat depending on the brand. Start with 1 teaspoon and add gradually to suit your spice preference. If you want it milder, you can also swap with a mild harissa or reduce the amount.

Is this soup vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, this Chickpea Harissa Vegetable Soup Recipe is both vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide range of diets without any modifications.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Definitely! Greens like kale or spinach are fantastic additions for extra nutrients and color. Feel free to experiment with bell peppers, sweet potatoes, or even corn for a unique twist.

What can I use if I don’t have harissa paste?

If harissa isn’t available, you can try substituting with a mixture of chili flakes, smoked paprika, and a little garlic to mimic its smoky and spicy flavor, but the authentic harissa flavor is truly hard to beat.

How long can I store this soup in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, this soup will keep fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 days. Always give it a good smell and check the texture before reheating to ensure it’s still perfect to enjoy.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of this Chickpea Harissa Vegetable Soup Recipe to brighten your day and satisfy your soul. It’s a perfect blend of spice, heartiness, and nourishing goodness that’s easy to make but feels special every time. I encourage you to give this vibrant soup a try—it might just become your new favorite way to enjoy a cozy, wholesome meal!