This Chickpea Butterbeans Pearl Couscous Soup is a one-pot wonder packed with hearty ingredients and vibrant flavors. A comforting and satisfying soup for any day, it combines tender pearl couscous with protein-rich chickpeas and butterbeans, creating a creamy texture that’s sure to delight. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep, it’s a nourishing dish for the whole family.
Why You’ll Love This
- Hearty & Nutritious: Packed with plant-based protein and fiber from chickpeas and butterbeans.
- Rich Flavor: Chickpea miso, tomato paste, and vegan bacon elevate the taste.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh greens.
- Customizable: Easy to adapt with your favorite herbs, spices, or vegetables.
- One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup required.
Ingredients
- Pearl couscous – Adds a tender and slightly chewy texture that absorbs flavors beautifully.
- Chickpea miso – Provides a deep umami flavor and enhances the soup’s richness.
- Better Than Bouillon – Creates a robust base for the broth.
- Olive oil – Used to sauté aromatics and add a silky finish.
- Butterbeans – Creamy and hearty, they add texture and protein.
- Chickpeas – Nutty and satisfying, a staple for plant-based protein.
- Tomato paste – Intensifies the savory, tomato-based flavor.
- Herbs and spices – Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and garlic powder add depth.
- Liquid smoke – Infuses a subtle smoky flavor for complexity.
- Vegan bacon – Crispy and savory, a delicious topping or mix-in.
- Celery – Adds a fresh, slightly sweet crunch to the soup.
- Vegan parmesan – Melts into the soup for a creamy and cheesy finish.
- Arugula or spinach – Bright and peppery greens to balance the richness.
Steps
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced celery and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in tomato paste, chickpea miso, and Better Than Bouillon. Cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Combine Beans: Add butterbeans and chickpeas, stirring to coat them with the seasoning mixture.
- Simmer: Pour in water or vegetable broth, add pearl couscous, and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season: Add Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and garlic powder. Adjust with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Finish: Stir in vegan parmesan and greens (arugula or spinach) just before serving.
- Top & Serve: Garnish with vegan bacon and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve hot.
Variations
- Beans: Swap butterbeans for cannellini or navy beans.
- Greens: Use kale, Swiss chard, or fresh parsley instead of arugula or spinach.
- Spices: Add smoked paprika or a pinch of cumin for a different flavor profile.
Substitutions
- Pearl Couscous: Substitute with regular couscous, small pasta, or quinoa.
- Vegan Parmesan: Use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Liquid Smoke: Try smoked salt or omit if unavailable.
FAQ
- Can I use dried beans? Yes, soak and cook them beforehand to save time during preparation.
- How should I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Can I freeze this soup? Yes, but the couscous may absorb more liquid. Add extra broth when reheating.
Hint
For the best texture, cook pearl couscous just until al dente. Overcooking can make it mushy.
Top Tip
Use day-old bread or crumbled vegan bacon as a topping to add crunch and contrast to the creamy soup.
Other Soup Recipes
- One Pot Easy Tuscan Ribollita Soup
- Trader Joe's Vegan Pepperoni & Cheese Soup
- Vegan Chili's Loaded Baked Potato Soup
- Everything But the Kitchen Sink Soup
- Justine Doiron Inspired Squash & Fennel Soup (vegan)
Chickpea Butterbeans Pearl Couscous Soup
Warm, hearty, and packed with flavor, this Chickpea Butterbeans Pearl Couscous Soup is the ultimate comfort dish. It's perfect for a rainy day or any time you crave something wholesome yet easy to make. With simple ingredients and vibrant flavors, this one-pot soup is a must-try.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon Olive oil - Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics.
- 1 cup Pearl couscous - Provides a tender nutty texture and hearty base.
- 2 tablespoon Chickpea miso - Enhances the umami flavor of the broth.
- 1 tablespoon Better Than Bouillon - Boosts the depth of flavor.
- 1 can 15 oz Butterbeans - Creamy and tender, adding a luscious texture.
- 1 can 15 oz Chickpeas - Nutty and protein-packed for a filling soup.
- 2 tablespoon Tomato paste - Concentrated tomato flavor for richness.
- 1 teaspoon Liquid smoke - Adds a subtle smokiness for depth.
- ½ cup Vegan bacon chopped - A savory, smoky addition.
- 2 stalks Celery chopped - Adds crunch and freshness.
- ¼ cup Vegan parmesan grated - Adds a cheesy, savory touch.
- 2 cups Arugula or spinach - For a fresh peppery finish.
- 1 teaspoon Herbs and spices - Customize with your favorites e.g., thyme, rosemary, red pepper flakes.
- 4 cups Vegetable broth - Forms the base of this hearty soup.
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add celery and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
- Add Tomato Paste and Flavorings: Stir in tomato paste, chickpea miso, Better Than Bouillon, and liquid smoke. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Combine Beans and Broth: Add butterbeans, chickpeas, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Add Pearl Couscous: Stir in the couscous and cook for 8-10 minutes until tender.
- Incorporate Greens and Vegan Bacon: Add arugula or spinach and chopped vegan bacon. Cook until greens wilt.
- Finish with Vegan Parmesan: Stir in grated vegan parmesan. Adjust seasonings with salt and black pepper.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls and enjoy warm, optionally garnished with fresh herbs.
