Colombia's vibrant culinary scene boasts a rich tapestry of flavors, and among its most beloved dishes is the hearty and soul-warming Ajiaco de Garbanzos, or Colombian chickpea soup. This isn't your average chickpea soup; it's a complex symphony of textures and tastes, featuring tender chickpeas, aromatic herbs, and a deeply savory broth that will leave you wanting more. The perfect blend of spices creates a comforting warmth that's ideal for a chilly evening or a cozy lunch. Think of it as a hug in a bowl, packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with authentic Colombian character.
This recipe unveils the secrets to crafting an authentic Ajiaco de Garbanzos, taking you step-by-step through the process of creating this delicious and traditional Colombian staple. From carefully selecting the freshest ingredients to mastering the perfect simmer, we’ll guide you in recreating this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen, allowing you to savor the vibrant flavors of Colombia from the comfort of your home. Prepare to be transported!
Tools Needed
- Large pot or pressure cooker
Ingredients
- White or yellow onion
- Green onion
- Garlic
- Tomatoes
- Ground cumin
- Food coloring
- Water or chicken broth
- Dry chickpeas (or canned)
- Colombian sausage
- Pork meat
- Chicken bones (optional)
- Yellow potatoes or Creole potatoes
- Sweet peas
- Carrot
- Salt
- Pepper
- Oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sauté Aromatics and Build Flavor Base
- Heat oil in a large pot or pressure cooker over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 3 minutes until translucent.
- Add chopped green onion and garlic; cook for 1 minute.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cook for 3-5 minutes until soft.
- Stir in ground cumin and food coloring.
Step 2. Simmer the Soup
- Carefully add water or chicken broth.
- Add soaked and drained chickpeas (or canned chickpeas).
- Add sliced Colombian sausage (optional) and pork meat.
- Add chicken bones (optional) if using only water. Stir, cover, and bring to a boil on high heat.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 1.5 hours (regular pot) or 45 minutes (pressure cooker).
- If desired, remove grease from the Colombian sausage with a spoon.
Step 3. Add Vegetables and Continue Cooking
- Add yellow or Creole potatoes (cut in half if frozen), sweet peas, and grated carrot.
- Add more water if needed. Stir and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are done. Frozen Creole potatoes will take less time.
Step 4. Season and Serve
- Finally, add salt and pepper to taste.
Read more: Red Lentil Soup with Lemon Mint Yogurt: A Food Wishes Recipe
Tips
- You can use canned chickpeas if you don't have time to soak dry chickpeas overnight.
- Colombian sausage tends to be salty, so add salt and pepper at the end to adjust the taste.
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Fat: 15-25g
- Carbs: 50-65g
- Protein: 20-30g
FAQs
1. Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried?
Yes, you can! Using canned chickpeas will significantly reduce the cooking time. Just be sure to rinse them well before adding them to the soup.
2. What can I do if my soup is too thick or too thin?
If it's too thick, add a little more water or broth. If it's too thin, simmer it uncovered for a longer period to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
Enjoy your delicious and authentic Colombian Chickpea Soup! This recipe is a testament to the simple yet profound flavors of Colombian cuisine. We hope you savor every spoonful and share this heartwarming dish with friends and family.