Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon – A Taste of the Mediterranean:

Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon, or Revithia, is a culinary journey to the sun-soaked landscapes of the Mediterranean. The earthy aroma of chickpeas mingling with the fragrant spices creates a tantalizing prelude to a dish that celebrates simplicity and wholesomeness.

The slow simmering of chickpeas in a lemon-kissed broth not only imparts a comforting warmth but also infuses the soup with a bright and citrusy undertone. The marriage of cumin and coriander adds a subtle complexity, elevating the flavor profile to a delightful crescendo. Garnished with fresh parsley, each spoonful is a vibrant and nutritious embrace.

Whether enjoyed on its own or as a side to crusty bread, Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon exemplifies the Mediterranean approach to nourishment – simple, hearty, and bursting with flavors that evoke the charm of traditional Greek kitchens. This soup is more than a meal; it’s a celebration of the wholesome goodness that comes from marrying quality ingredients with time-honored culinary techniques.

Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon, or Revithia, is a culinary voyage through the sun-drenched landscapes of Greece, bringing to the table the wholesome simplicity and vibrant flavors characteristic of Mediterranean cuisine. As the pot simmers with dried chickpeas, aromatic spices, and the zesty embrace of fresh lemon, the kitchen becomes an aromatic haven, redolent with the essence of Greek tradition.

This soup, a testament to the art of slow cooking, transforms humble chickpeas into tender morsels bathed in a golden broth infused with the warmth of cumin and coriander. The fragrance of onions and garlic sautéing in olive oil sets the stage for a symphony of flavors that dance together in harmony. The addition of freshly squeezed lemon juice not only imparts a citrusy brightness but also elevates the dish to a level of culinary sophistication.

Garnished with chopped fresh parsley, each bowl of Revithia is a celebration of nourishment and cultural heritage. The soup’s nutrient-rich profile, boasting a balance of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, reflects the Mediterranean commitment to wholesome and healthful eating.

Whether enjoyed as a soul-soothing comfort on a chilly evening or as a culinary ode to the Mediterranean sun, Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon is an invitation to savor the simple pleasures of life. This dish transcends mere sustenance; it embodies the soulful connection between food, tradition, and the joy derived from a well-prepared and heartwarming bowl of soup.

Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon (Revithia)

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups dried chickpeas, soaked overnight (or use canned chickpeas for a quicker option)
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • Juice of 2 lemons
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. If using dried chickpeas, drain and rinse them after soaking. If using canned chickpeas, drain and rinse them as well.
  2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
  3. Add soaked or canned chickpeas to the pot and stir to combine with the vegetables.
  4. Pour in vegetable broth, add dried oregano, dried thyme, and the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  5. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until the chickpeas are tender. If using canned chickpeas, the cooking time will be shorter.
  6. Once the chickpeas are cooked, remove the bay leaf. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some whole chickpeas for texture.
  7. Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Garnish the soup with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 6 servings):

  • Calories: Approximately 250
  • Protein: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Dietary Fiber: 8g
  • Sugars: 6g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 800mg (varies based on broth and seasoning)