As the chilly air of fall settles in, there’s nothing more comforting than a steaming bowl of Chickpea & Farro Soup {Zuppa di Ceci e Farro}. This delightful blend of tender chickpeas and hearty farro brings warmth not just to the body, but to the soul. I discovered this recipe during a leisurely Sunday afternoon, when I wanted to create something nourishing yet easy—little did I know it would quickly become my go-to favorite.
Imagine the vibrant aroma of onion, garlic, and fresh herbs wafting through your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. With its robust flavors, this soup is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or sharing with friends over hearty conversations. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility; it can easily accommodate whatever veggies you have on hand.
Join me as we explore this comforting recipe that celebrates wholesome ingredients, bringing homemade warmth into your life—all while steering clear of the predictable fast-food routine. Let’s dive into the deliciousness of Chickpea & Farro Soup!
Why Love Chickpea & Farro Soup?
Comforting warmth: This soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days or cozy nights in.
Flavor-packed goodness: The combination of aromatic herbs, savory pancetta, and creamy chickpeas delivers a delightful taste that will leave you craving more.
Quick and easy: In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a nourishing meal that’s both filling and satisfying—no more rushed takeout!
Healthy and hearty: Packed with protein and fiber, this dish is not just delicious but also nourishing, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious eaters.
Customizable delight: Feel free to throw in any seasonal veggies to elevate the dish even further.
Experience the magic of homemade goodness with every spoonful!
Chickpea & Farro Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Olive Oil – 3 tablespoons to sauté the vegetables and add a rich flavor.
• Onion – 1 medium, diced; this is the flavor foundation of your soup.
• Carrot – 1 medium, diced; it adds sweetness and color to the mix.
• Celery – 2 stalks, diced; for that classic soup flavor and crunch.
• Pancetta – 1/3 cup, diced; brings a savory depth that’s hard to resist.
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced; the aroma will make your kitchen feel inviting.
For the Protein and Grains
• Chickpeas – 2 cans, drained; they boost the protein content and create a creamy texture.
• Chicken or Vegetable Broth – 6 cups; the base that gives your soup its heartiness.
• Tomato Paste – 3 tablespoons; this adds richness and a hint of sweetness.
• Farro – 1 cup; a nutritious grain that sets this dish apart as a filling meal.
For Seasoning
• Rosemary – 2 teaspoons, finely chopped; its woodsy scent is a lovely complement to the soup.
• Thyme – 1 teaspoon, finely chopped; adds a subtle earthiness that enhances the flavors.
• Salt & Pepper – to taste; essential for elevating all the wonderful ingredients.
• Chili Flakes – a pinch; for a slight kick that rounds out the flavor beautifully.
For Garnish
• Garnish of Choice – see notes above; fresh herbs or a dollop of yogurt can elevate your soup to the next level.
With these vibrant ingredients, your Chickpea & Farro Soup is not just a meal—it’s a warm embrace that will brighten any chilly day!
How to Make Chickpea & Farro Soup
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Heat the oil: In a stock pot over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once it starts to shimmer, it’s time to add the veggies!
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Sauté the base: Toss in the diced onion, carrot, celery, and pancetta. Sauté until the veggies are tender and lightly browned, about 8 minutes.
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Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute or two, allowing the fragrance to fill your kitchen.
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Combine the liquids: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, along with the tomato paste, rosemary, thyme, and a bit of salt and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.
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Incorporate chickpeas: Add the drained chickpeas and give it a gentle stir. They will add creaminess and heartiness to your soup.
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Simmer the soup: Let the mixture cook for about 20 minutes over low heat. This will allow all the flavors to come together beautifully.
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Blend until smooth: Carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches, and puree until very smooth. This step gives your soup that luxurious texture.
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Cook with farro: Return the soup to the pot, add in the farro, and continue to cook over low heat for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the farro is just tender.
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Season to taste: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper as needed for your desired flavor.
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Serve with love: Ladle the soup into individual bowls and top with your garnish of choice. Enjoy the warmth!
Optional: Top with fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Chickpea and Farro Soup?
Cozy up your dinner table with these delicious sides that perfectly complement your hearty bowl of Chickpea and Farro Soup.
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Crusty Bread: This rustic favorite is perfect for dipping and soaking up the flavorful broth, creating a delightful mix of textures.
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Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with leafy greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the soup.
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Cheesy Garlic Toast: The melted cheese on warm, garlicky bread pairs beautifully with the soup, making every bite a comforting experience.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized contribute earthy flavors, enhancing the overall meal and providing a lovely contrast in taste.
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Herbed Quinoa: Light and fluffy, quinoa seasoned with fresh herbs complements the soup’s heartiness, while adding an extra layer of nutrition.
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Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado slices on the side provide a silky smooth texture that rounds out the flavors beautifully, making your meal even more satisfying.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled white like Sauvignon Blanc brightens the palate and contrasts nicely with the savory flavors of the soup.
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Dark Chocolate Squares: A small piece of rich dark chocolate at the end adds an unexpected touch of sweetness, delighting your taste buds as you savor the meal.
Make Ahead Options
These hearty Chickpea & Farro Soup {Zuppa di Ceci e Farro} is a fantastic option for meal prep lovers! You can chop the vegetables and cook the base of the soup up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating them to keep everything fresh. Additionally, the soup itself can be blended and stored for 3 days, making your weeknights a breeze! To maintain quality, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stove and add the farro, cooking until it’s tender—this way, you can savor the deliciousness with minimal effort and keep your busy schedule in check!
Expert Tips for Chickpea & Farro Soup
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Prep Ingredients First: Before you start, chop all vegetables and measure out ingredients. This makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
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Avoid Overcooking Farro: Keep an eye on the farro while simmering! Cooking it too long can turn it mushy. Aim for tender yet chewy grains for the perfect texture in your Chickpea & Farro Soup.
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Customize Your Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control the salt levels or switch it up with vegetable broth for a lighter, vegan option. This small change enhances the soup’s flavor.
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Finishing Touch: Drizzle a little extra olive oil before serving. It adds a lovely richness and depth to your dish, making every bowl feel special.
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Blend in Batches: When pureeing, ensure you don’t fill the blender too full. This prevents messy spills and achieves a smooth consistency for your Chickpea & Farro Soup.
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Store Wisely: If you have leftovers, store the soup and farro separately to prevent the grain from soaking up too much liquid. Reheat gently for best results.
Storage Tips for Chickpea & Farro Soup
Room Temperature: Serve fresh for the best taste. If left out, consume within 2 hours to keep it safe.
Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld even more!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. Remember to leave space for expansion when freezing.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave. If the soup thickens, add a splash of broth or water for the perfect consistency. Enjoy your Chickpea & Farro Soup!
Variations & Substitutions for Chickpea & Farro Soup
Feel free to make this recipe your own with exciting twists and ingredients that suit your taste!
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Vegan: Simply omit the pancetta and swap chicken broth for vegetable broth. You’ll still enjoy a hearty and satisfying soup.
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Grain Swap: Replace farro with quinoa or brown rice for a quicker cooking time and slightly different texture. These grains will still provide a lovely bite.
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Add Greens: Toss in a handful of spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for a vibrant color and nutritious boost. They wilt beautifully and add lots of flavors!
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Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy heat, add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers along with the garlic. Just a few can elevate the flavor profile delightfully!
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Mediterranean Flair: Incorporate diced bell peppers, black olives, and even a sprinkle of feta at the end for a Mediterranean twist. These additions bring in a burst of flavor and saltiness.
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Creamy Texture: Blend a can of white beans with the chickpeas for a creamier base without changing the flavor significantly. It enhances the soup’s heartiness.
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Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as basil or cilantro instead of rosemary and thyme, allowing you to explore a new flavor landscape that will warm your heart.
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Lemon Zest: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or some lemon zest right before serving brightens the flavors wonderfully, creating a lovely balance to the richness of the soup.
With these variations, your Chickpea & Farro Soup can be uniquely yours, bringing an ever-warming embrace to every bowl!
Chickpea & Farro Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe chickpeas?
Absolutely! When selecting canned chickpeas, look for ones without any dark spots or dents in the can. If you’re using dried chickpeas, they should be firm and free from any signs of mold.
What’s the best way to store leftover Chickpea & Farro Soup?
I recommend transferring your cooled soup into an airtight container and refrigerating it. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, allowing the delicious flavors to meld even more!
Can I freeze Chickpea & Farro Soup?
Very! To freeze your soup, pour it into individual portions using freezer-safe containers. Leave about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove!
What should I do if my farro is overcooked?
No worries—if you find your farro has turned mushy, try to blend it back into the soup for a creamy texture. Alternatively, you can add freshly cooked, al dente farro to the soup before serving for a nice contrast.
Is this soup safe for my pets?
Please note that while chickpeas are generally safe for dogs in moderation, this soup contains onion and garlic, which can be harmful to them. Always keep that in mind if you’re sharing samples with your furry friends!
How can I adjust for dietary restrictions?
You can easily make this Chickpea & Farro Soup vegan by omitting the pancetta and using vegetable broth. For gluten-free options, simply replace farro with quinoa or rice, adjusting the cooking time accordingly!
Hearty Chickpea & Farro Soup to Warm Your Soul
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a stock pot over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once it starts to shimmer, it's time to add the veggies!
- Toss in the diced onion, carrot, celery, and pancetta. Sauté until the veggies are tender and lightly browned, about 8 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute or two.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, along with the tomato paste, rosemary, thyme, and a bit of salt and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
- Add the drained chickpeas and give it a gentle stir.
- Let the mixture cook for about 20 minutes over low heat.
- Carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches, and puree until very smooth.
- Return the soup to the pot, add in the farro, and continue to cook over low heat for about 20 to 25 minutes.
- Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
- Ladle the soup into individual bowls and top with your garnish of choice.