Save It This Ham and Chickpea Soup with Lemon and Dill is the ultimate comfort in a bowl. Combining smoky, savory diced ham with the creamy texture of chickpeas, this Mediterranean-inspired dish is elevated by a vibrant burst of citrus and the aromatic freshness of dill. It is a hearty yet bright meal that satisfies at any time of year.
Save It This recipe is designed for simplicity and flavor. By using pantry staples like canned chickpeas and leftover cooked ham, you can create a sophisticated soup that tastes like it has been simmering for hours.
Ingredients
- Meats
- 250 g (about 9 oz) cooked ham, diced
- Legumes
- 1 can (400 g/14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Liquids
- 1.2 liters (5 cups) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Herbs & Spices
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–6 minutes, until softened.
- Step 2
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Step 3
- Add the diced ham and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 4
- Pour in the broth, add the chickpeas, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Step 5
- Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and fresh dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 6
- Simmer for 2–3 more minutes, then ladle into bowls. Garnish with extra dill if desired. Serve hot.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For a thicker and creamier soup texture, mash a portion of the chickpeas with a fork before adding them to the pot.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily adapt this recipe by swapping the ham for smoked turkey. For a vegetarian version, omit the meat entirely and ensure you use a flavorful vegetable broth.
Serviervorschläge
This soup pairs exceptionally well with a side of warm, crusty bread. For a complete dining experience, enjoy it with a glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc.
Save It Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or a comforting dinner, this ham and chickpea soup is sure to become a household favorite. The combination of simple ingredients and zesty accents creates a truly memorable meal.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → How can I thicken the soup?
Mash a portion of the chickpeas with a fork before stirring them back into the broth to create a naturally thicker texture without adding extra ingredients.
- → What are good substitutes for ham?
Smoked turkey makes an excellent alternative, or omit the meat entirely and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian variation.
- → Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Yes, the flavors develop well when made ahead. Store in an airtight container and reheat gently before serving.
- → Which herbs enhance this dish best?
Fresh dill and dried thyme provide a balanced, aromatic profile, complemented by bay leaf during cooking for depth.
- → What are suggested accompaniments?
Serve with crusty bread and a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc to complement the bright and hearty flavors.