Greek Chickpea Soup Recipe (Revithia)

A staple of Greek cuisine, Greek Chickpea Soup (or Revithia) is a simple yet hearty dish that embodies the Mediterranean diet. Made with tender chickpeas, fragrant olive oil, and a bright touch of lemon, this soup is comforting, nourishing, and full of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a plant-based meal or just something wholesome and delicious, this one-pot wonder is perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for extra depth)
• 4 cups cooked chickpeas (or 2 cans, drained and rinsed)
• 6 cups vegetable broth or water
• 2 bay leaves
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from 2–3 lemons)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

• 2–3 tablespoons fresh dill or parsley, chopped
• Zest of 1 lemon (for extra brightness)

For Serving:

• Crusty bread or pita
• Olive oil drizzle
• Fresh parsley or dill, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Spices and Chickpeas

1. Stir in the dried oregano and cumin (if using) and cook for 1 minute to release the flavors.
2. Add the chickpeas and mix well to coat them in the aromatic vegetable mixture.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

1. Pour in the vegetable broth or water and add the bay leaves.
2. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20–25 minutes.

Step 4: Blend (Optional)

1. For a creamier texture, blend about 1/3 of the soup using an immersion blender, or transfer some to a blender and return it to the pot.
2. If you prefer a chunkier texture, skip this step.

Step 5: Add Lemon Juice and Season

1. Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.
2. If desired, add fresh dill or parsley for extra freshness.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and drizzle with olive oil.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley or dill and serve with crusty bread or pita on the side.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: This soup pairs beautifully with a side of warm pita, crusty bread, or a light Greek salad.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even tastier!
• Freezing: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Helpful Notes

• Dried Chickpeas: For the best texture and flavor, cook dried chickpeas instead of using canned. Soak 1 1/2 cups of dried chickpeas overnight, then simmer them until tender before adding to the soup.
• Creamier Soup: If you want an even creamier soup, add a small potato while simmering and blend it along with the soup.
• Extra Lemon Flavor: Add a pinch of lemon zest to the soup for a citrusy boost.
• Protein Boost: Top with crumbled feta cheese (if not vegan) or add a handful of spinach for extra nutrients.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Chef Yotam Ottolenghi: “Use high-quality olive oil—it’s the backbone of Mediterranean soups like this and elevates the flavor profile.”
• Chef Maria Loi: “Don’t rush the simmering process; the longer the soup cooks, the richer the flavors become.”
• Chef Ina Garten: “Adding fresh herbs at the end brightens the dish and enhances its freshness.”

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this soup vegan?
   The soup is naturally vegan! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
2. Can I use canned chickpeas?
   Yes, canned chickpeas work perfectly. Just rinse and drain them before using.
3. What if I don’t have fresh lemons?
   Bottled lemon juice can be used, but fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor.
4. How do I thicken the soup?
   Blend a portion of the soup or simmer it uncovered to reduce the liquid.
5. Can I add other vegetables?
   Absolutely. Potatoes, zucchini, or spinach are great additions.
6. Is this soup gluten-free?
   Yes, as long as you use gluten-free bread or no bread on the side.
7. What other spices can I add?
   Smoked paprika or a pinch of chili flakes can add depth and heat.
8. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
   Yes, it reheats wonderfully and tastes even better the next day.
9. How do I prevent the soup from being too tangy?
   Start with less lemon juice and add more to taste. You can always adjust the acidity.
10. What should I serve with Greek Chickpea Soup?
    Pair it with a simple Greek salad, olive tapenade, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.