Hearty & Healthy Moroccan Tomato Couscous Chickpea Soup: A Flavorful Journey
Embark on a culinary adventure with this exquisite Moroccan Tomato Couscous Chickpea Soup. This vibrant soup is a celebration of rich spices and robust flavors, expertly balanced with nourishing vegetables and satisfying proteins. It’s a dish that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also provides a wholesome, fulfilling meal, perfect for any season. The harmonious blend of simmered plum tomatoes, tender chickpeas, and fluffy couscous, infused with traditional Moroccan spices like turmeric, paprika, and cinnamon, creates an unforgettable experience that will transport you to the bustling markets of Marrakech.
The Inspiration Behind This Moroccan Masterpiece
Many of the most cherished recipes are born from moments of inspiration – be it a captivating cooking show, an unforgettable meal at a local eatery, or even a vivid dream! This particular Moroccan Tomato Couscous Chickpea Soup draws its rich heritage from a memorable visit to Taza Lebanese Grill in Cleveland. The moment I tasted their exceptional tomato couscous soup, I knew I had to recreate its magic, but with my own distinctive twist, blending it with the beloved spice profile from my popular Moroccan Carrot Red Lentil Soup.
The secret truly lies in the spices. The warm, earthy notes of turmeric, the sweet smokiness of paprika, the comforting aroma of cinnamon, combined with cumin and coriander, create a symphony of flavors that perfectly complement the sweetness of the tomatoes and the hearty texture of the chickpeas and couscous. This blend isn’t just about heat; it’s about depth, complexity, and a cozy warmth that makes every spoonful incredibly satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Healthy Moroccan Chickpea Soup
This soup is much more than just a meal; it’s a bowl full of goodness designed to nourish your body and delight your senses. Here’s why this Moroccan Tomato Couscous Chickpea Soup will quickly become a staple in your kitchen:
- Rich & Aromatic Flavor: The carefully selected blend of Moroccan spices creates a depth of flavor that is truly unique and incredibly satisfying.
- Nutritious & Wholesome: Packed with fresh vegetables, protein-rich chickpeas, and whole-grain couscous, this soup is a powerhouse of nutrients, fiber, and protein, making it a complete meal.
- Creamy Texture (Optional): While naturally wholesome, the option to add cream or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk provides a luxurious, velvety texture that elevates the soup to new heights.
- Easy to Customize: Whether you prefer a heartier soup with more vegetables or a spicier kick, this recipe is incredibly adaptable to your taste and dietary needs.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it an ideal candidate for meal prepping. Enjoy it throughout the week for quick and healthy lunches or dinners.
- Vegetarian & Easily Vegan: This recipe is naturally vegetarian and can be made completely vegan by simply opting for coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.
Key Ingredients for the Perfect Moroccan Soup
Each ingredient in this Moroccan Tomato Couscous Chickpea Soup plays a vital role in building its complex flavor profile and satisfying texture. Here’s a closer look at what makes this soup truly special:
Couscous
For this recipe, I opted for a whole wheat couscous, which adds a lovely nutty flavor and extra fiber, enhancing the soup’s overall health benefits. However, don’t feel limited! You can easily use regular pearl couscous for a chewier texture, or even substitute with bulgur wheat or quinoa for a gluten-free option. Each alternative brings its own unique contribution to the soup, allowing for great versatility.
Flavorful Vegetables
The base of this hearty soup is built upon classic aromatic vegetables: sweet onion, crisp celery, and tender carrots. These, combined with luscious whole peeled plum tomatoes, create a rich and savory foundation. The plum tomatoes break down beautifully during simmering, contributing a natural sweetness and robust tomato flavor that is essential to the soup’s character. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrients and color.
Aromatic Spices
The soul of this Moroccan soup lies in its spice blend. I’ve carefully chosen a combination that delivers an incredible warmth and depth:
- Cumin: Adds an earthy, warm note.
- Paprika: Contributes a sweet, smoky undertone and beautiful color.
- Cayenne Red Pepper: Offers a subtle kick of heat – adjust to your preference for a milder or spicier soup.
- Cinnamon: A surprising but essential addition, providing a touch of sweet warmth that is characteristic of Moroccan cuisine.
- Coriander: Brings a bright, citrusy, and slightly sweet flavor.
- Turmeric: Known for its vibrant color and earthy, slightly bitter notes, plus its many health benefits.
This collection of spices ensures every spoonful is an aromatic delight, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the tomatoes and the richness of the chickpeas.
Nutrient-Rich Broth
While vegetable broth or vegetable stock is my go-to for this recipe, especially if you want to keep it vegetarian or vegan, chicken broth or chicken stock can also be used for a richer flavor. The broth forms the liquid base of the soup, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully as it simmers.
Hearty Chickpeas
Chickpeas are the star protein of this soup, offering a healthy and satisfying bite. They contribute to the soup’s texture and make it incredibly filling. If chickpeas aren’t your favorite, white beans (like cannellini or navy beans) make an excellent alternative, offering a similar creamy texture and nutritional benefits.
The Creaminess Factor
To achieve that wonderfully rich and creamy texture that often defines a great tomato soup, I recommend adding cream. Heavy cream works beautifully for a luxurious finish. For a lighter touch, 2% milk can be used. And for those seeking a dairy-free or vegan option, full-fat coconut milk is an excellent substitute, adding a subtle, pleasant sweetness that complements the Moroccan spices perfectly. This addition is entirely optional, but it truly enhances the soup’s comfort factor.
Crafting Your Moroccan Tomato Couscous Chickpea Soup: Step-by-Step
Creating this flavorful Moroccan Tomato Couscous Chickpea Soup is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps to bring a taste of Morocco to your kitchen:
1. Prepare the Couscous: Begin by cooking your couscous according to the package directions. This is typically a quick process, often involving simmering it in water or broth until tender and fluffy. Set aside once cooked.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped sweet onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until it starts to soften and become fragrant. Next, add the minced garlic, carrots, and celery along with a pinch of salt. Continue to sauté these vegetables until they are tender, which usually takes another 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial for building the flavor base of your soup.
3. Bloom the Spices: Introduce the star of the show – your Moroccan spice blend! Add the cumin, paprika, cayenne red pepper, cinnamon, coriander, and turmeric to the pot. Sauté for an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly. This “blooming” of the spices in oil helps to release their full aromatic potential, intensifying the flavors of the soup.
4. Simmer the Main Ingredients: Pour in the peeled plum tomatoes (crushing them lightly with your hands or a spoon if they are whole), vegetable broth, and rinsed and drained chickpeas. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully and the tomatoes to fully break down.
5. Add Creaminess: Stir in the cream (or your chosen alternative like coconut milk or 2% milk) and continue to simmer for another 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference. Remember, a little salt can enhance all the other flavors.
6. Achieve Desired Texture (Optional): For a thicker, more uniform soup, separate about half of the soup into a large mixing bowl. Using an immersion blender directly in the pot, or carefully transferring batches to a regular blender, purée this portion until smooth. Return the puréed soup back into the pot with the remaining chunky soup and mix well. This creates a wonderful balance of creamy broth and hearty pieces.
7. Serve and Garnish: To serve, place a few spoonfuls of the cooked couscous at the bottom of each soup bowl. Ladle the hot soup over the couscous. Garnish generously with fresh cilantro, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for extra heat, fresh lemon wedges for a bright zing, and a few extra chickpeas for texture. This soup is wonderfully complemented by warm Naan bread or pita for dipping.
Serving Suggestions and Garnishes
This Moroccan Tomato Couscous Chickpea Soup is a meal in itself, but a few thoughtful additions can elevate the dining experience. Beyond the garnishes mentioned in the recipe (fresh cilantro, crushed red pepper, lemon wedges, and extra chickpeas), consider serving it with a side of warm, crusty bread or Naan for dipping. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette would also complement the rich flavors of the soup beautifully. For an extra touch of authenticity, a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or a swirl of harissa paste (for those who love extra heat) can be added before serving.
Make Ahead and Storage Tips
One of the best qualities of this Moroccan Tomato Couscous Chickpea Soup is that it tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat until heated through. If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. You can also freeze portions of the soup (without the couscous) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as directed, cooking fresh couscous when ready to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this Moroccan Tomato Couscous Chickpea Soup vegan?
Absolutely! This soup is easily adaptable for a vegan diet. Simply ensure you use vegetable broth, and when it comes to the creaminess, opt for full-fat coconut milk instead of dairy cream or milk. The coconut milk will add a lovely, subtle sweetness that complements the Moroccan spices beautifully.
What kind of couscous should I use?
I recommend whole wheat couscous for its added fiber and nutty flavor, but regular pearl couscous (larger grains) or traditional fine couscous will work just as well. For a gluten-free option, you can substitute with quinoa or even rice, cooking them separately and adding them to the bowls before serving the soup.
How can I make the soup spicier?
If you prefer a spicier soup, there are several ways to adjust the heat. You can increase the amount of cayenne red pepper in the recipe. Alternatively, add a pinch of chili powder or a swirl of harissa paste when serving. Freshly chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers can also be sautéed with the onions for a bolder kick.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Yes, this soup is very forgiving and welcomes additional vegetables! Good choices include zucchini, bell peppers (red or yellow for sweetness), spinach (stirred in at the very end until wilted), or even diced sweet potatoes for extra heartiness and a touch of sweetness. Feel free to experiment with what you have on hand.
More Delicious Tomato-Inspired Recipes
If you’re a fan of the fresh, versatile flavor of tomatoes, you’ll love exploring these other delightful recipes that highlight this incredible fruit (yes, it’s botanically a fruit!). From refreshing salads to hearty main courses, there’s a tomato dish for every craving:
PERSIAN TOMATO CUCUMBER SALAD
A light and zesty salad combining crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes with fresh herbs, perfect as a side dish.
TOMATO CUCUMBER FETA QUINOA SALAD
This Mediterranean-inspired salad is packed with protein and fresh flavors, featuring vibrant tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, salty feta, and wholesome quinoa.
EASY LEBANESE SALAD
A simple yet incredibly flavorful salad, known for its fresh vegetables and bright lemon-mint dressing.
LEBANESE TABBOULEH
The classic Middle Eastern salad featuring finely chopped parsley, tomatoes, mint, onion, and bulgur wheat, dressed with lemon juice and olive oil.
CUCUMBER TOMATO SALAD WITH YOGURT DRESSING
A creamy and refreshing salad that pairs juicy tomatoes and crisp cucumbers with a tangy yogurt-based dressing.
RATATOUILLE
A rustic French Provençal stewed vegetable dish, featuring tomatoes, zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers, slow-cooked to perfection.
SIMPLE MARINATED TOMATOES
An easy and delicious way to enjoy fresh tomatoes, marinated in a flavorful herb and garlic dressing.
Tried this recipe? Leave a star rating and comment below! Subscribe to my newsletter or follow me on
Facebook,
Instagram, or
Pinterest for the latest.
Moroccan Tomato Couscous Chickpea Soup
Pin
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup couscous , {I used whole wheat}
- 3 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 sweet onion, chopped
- 3 garlic , minced
- 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper, {cayenne pepper}
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 teaspoon coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 28 oz. plum tomatoes, peeled
- 4 cups vegetable broth, {you could use chicken broth}
- 1 – 15 ounce chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup cream, milk or coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
-
Cook the couscous according to the package.
-
While the couscous cooks heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and begin to sauté for 2 minutes.
-
Add the garlic, carrots and celery and a dash of salt and continue to sauté until the vegetables become soft.
-
Add the spices and continue to sauté for 2 more minutes.
-
Put the plum tomatoes, vegetable broth and chickpeas and simmer on low for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
-
Add the cream in and stir well. Simmer for 2 more minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste.
-
Separate half of the soup into a large mixing bowl and either puree using an immersion blender or using a blender. Return the pureed soup back into the soup pot and mix well.
-
In soup bowls put a few spoonfuls of couscous in the bottom, ladle the soup on top and garnish as you wish {fresh cilantro, crushed red pepper, lemon wedges and extra chickpeas}.
-
Serve alongside Naan bread for dipping.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.