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Cozy Turmeric Soup

Featured in Cozy soups to warm your heart.

This vibrant turmeric soup brings together the best flavors of Mediterranean cooking with a healthy twist. Packed with protein-rich chickpeas and spinach, turmeric adds its anti-inflammatory benefits. Orzo gives it a comforting texture, while mashing some chickpeas creates a creamy feel naturally. A squeeze of fresh lemon enhances the taste, and toppings like Greek yogurt or olive oil let you customize each serving. Its flexibility makes it a favorite for adapting with whatever’s on hand.
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Maria from tastyhush
Updated on Tue, 04 Mar 2025 22:15:07 GMT
Turmeric Soup with Chickpeas, Orzo, and Spinach Pin it
Turmeric Soup with Chickpeas, Orzo, and Spinach | Tastyhush.com

This golden turmeric soup with chickpeas and spinach is a nourishing blend of warming spices and hearty ingredients. The earthy flavor of chickpeas pairs perfectly with fragrant turmeric, while fresh spinach and a bright squeeze of lemon add vibrant notes to this comforting dish.

This soul-warming soup has become a weekly staple in our kitchen, especially during colder months. Its beautiful golden color makes it as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

Key Ingredients

  • Turmeric: Choose organic for maximum flavor and benefits
  • Chickpeas: Home-cooked dried chickpeas provide the best texture
  • Orzo: Small rice-shaped pasta adds satisfying body
  • Fresh Spinach: Select young, tender leaves
  • Garlic: Fresh, firm cloves for robust flavor
  • Lemon: Organic unwaxed for zest and juice

Preparation Steps

1.
Heat quality olive oil in a large pot. Gently sauté diced onions until translucent and soft, about 10 minutes over low heat.
2.
Toast turmeric and cumin in the oil briefly to release their essential oils and enhance flavor, approximately 30 seconds.
3.
Add chickpeas, lightly crushing some to naturally thicken the broth while leaving others whole for texture.
4.
Pour broth in gradually, starting with a small amount to deglaze the pot before adding the remainder.
5.
Cook orzo to al dente, testing frequently as it will continue softening in the hot broth.
6.
Stir in fresh spinach just before serving to maintain its bright color and nutrients.

The true beauty of this soup lies in how the flavors and textures complement each other.

Each bowl can be customized with toppings like toasted pumpkin seeds, garlic croutons, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.

While the preparation is straightforward, each step contributes to creating this nourishing and flavorful soup.

Golden Turmeric Soup with Chickpeas, Orzo and Spinach Pin it
Golden Turmeric Soup with Chickpeas, Orzo and Spinach | Tastyhush.com

This nutritious soup has become our family's go-to winter wellness meal, providing warmth and nourishment in every spoonful.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can orzo be swapped out?
Absolutely, you can use quinoa, rice, or pearl couscous. Just adjust the cooking time for the chosen grain.
→ Is this soup good for freezing?
Yes, but make sure to add fresh spinach when reheating for the best texture.
→ Can I use dried chickpeas?
Of course, just soak and pre-cook them before adding them to the soup.
→ How can I make it creamier?
You can add coconut milk, Greek yogurt, or mash more chickpeas for a thicker consistency.
→ Does turmeric stain tools?
It might! Stainless steel or glass utensils are your best bet to avoid stains.

Golden Chickpea Soup

A warm, golden soup with turmeric and chickpeas, mixed with fresh spinach and orzo for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Prep Time
20 Minutes
Cook Time
30 Minutes
Total Time
50 Minutes
By: Maria

Category: Soups & Stews

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Yield: 6 Servings

Dietary: Vegan, Vegetarian, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

→ Spices and Seasonings

01 1 tsp ground cumin
02 2 tsp turmeric powder
03 Salt and pepper to taste

→ Core Ingredients

04 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
05 1 medium onion, diced
06 1 cup orzo
07 3 handfuls of fresh spinach
08 1.5L stock (vegetable, chicken, or bone broth)
09 2 400g cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
10 2 tbsp olive oil
11 Juice of 1 lemon

→ Optional Serving Add-ons

12 Extra virgin olive oil
13 Aleppo chili flakes
14 Greek yogurt

Instructions

Step 01

Cook the onion in olive oil over medium heat until it softens.

Step 02

Mix in the garlic, chickpeas, turmeric, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until the spices smell great and the chickpeas get a bit crunchy.

Step 03

Use a potato masher to crush a portion of the chickpeas to give the soup a thicker texture.

Step 04

Pour a little broth to scrape up the browned bits, then add the rest of the stock. Bring it to a boil and toss in the orzo. Cover it and let it simmer until the pasta is ready.

Step 05

Stir in the spinach and let it wilt. Take the pot off the heat and mix in the lemon juice. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 06

Serve with a drizzle of olive oil, a dollop of Greek yogurt, and a sprinkle of Aleppo chili flakes if you'd like.

Notes

  1. Keeps for 3 days in the fridge
  2. Orzo will soak up liquid over time, so add extra broth if needed

Tools You'll Need

  • Large pot
  • Potato masher
  • Wooden spoon

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains gluten (orzo)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 310
  • Total Fat: 9 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 48 g
  • Protein: 12 g