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Shorwa-e-Nakhod (Chickpea Soup) (دوخن یاوروش)

The Quirky Foodster Team

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10 minutes (plus soaking)
Prep
1 hour
Cook
4
Servings

Ingredients

  • Dried chickpeas, soaked overnight — 250 g (1 1/4 cups)
  • Onion, chopped — 150 g (1 medium)
  • Tomato paste — 30 g (2 tbsp)
  • Turmeric — 3 g (1/2 tsp)
  • Vegetable oil — 30 ml (2 tbsp)
  • Water or vegetable stock — 1.2 L (5 cups)
  • Salt — 6 g (1 tsp)
  • Fresh coriander, chopped — 15 g (1/4 cup)

Method

  1. Drain the soaked chickpeas and set aside.
  2. Heat oil in a large pot and sauté the onion until soft.
  3. Stir in tomato paste and turmeric and cook for 1 minute.
  4. Add the chickpeas, water or stock, and salt.
  5. Bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 50-60 minutes until the chickpeas are tender.
  6. Adjust seasoning, top with fresh coriander, and serve hot.

Introduction: A simple, warming chickpea soup with tomato and turmeric, gently spiced and finished with fresh coriander.

Cultural Background: Chickpea soups like this are common across Afghan households as an economical, filling dish, often eaten during the colder months.

Tips: Soaking the chickpeas overnight significantly shortens cooking time. A pressure cooker cuts the simmering time to about 20 minutes.

Variations: Add diced potato for a heartier soup. Finish with a squeeze of lemon for brightness.

Vegetarian/Vegan: Naturally vegetarian and vegan as written.

Serving Suggestions: Serve with warm naan for a simple, complete meal.

Storage: Refrigerate for up to 4 days; freezes well for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding water if the soup has thickened.

Nutrition: 260 kcal | Protein 12g | Carbs 38g | Fat 7g

FAQs:

Q: Can I use canned chickpeas?

A: Yes — use 2 cans, drained, and reduce the simmering time to about 20 minutes.

Q: Is this soup spicy?

A: No, it’s mild; add chilli flakes or fresh chilli if you prefer heat.