Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Warm olive oil over medium heat in a Dutch oven. Add chopped onion and a pinch of salt. Cook for 5–6 minutes until glossy, then stir in sliced garlic for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
- Add ground cumin and smoked paprika (if using) and stir for 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
- Pour in the tomatoes and 1 cup broth. Stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Add chickpeas, sugar or honey alternative, salt, and black pepper. Simmer uncovered for 12–15 minutes until gently bubbling and flavors meld.
- Blend 1–2 cups of soup and return to the pot, or leave all chunky. Add more broth to reach desired consistency.
- Stir in spinach to wilt, about 60–90 seconds. Remove from heat. Stir in lemon juice or vinegar. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and acid.
- Ladle into bowls and top with a modest swirl of chili oil. Serve warm.
Nutrition
Notes
Substitute spinach with kale or chard. Add pasta like ditalini for a heartier twist. Control spice with less chili oil or swap in cayenne. Make creamy with coconut yogurt or keep it brothy for a lighter bowl. For leftovers, flavor deepens after a day.
