Ingredients
– 2 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 medium carrots, diced (1 1/4 cups)
– 1 large yellow onion, chopped (1 3/4 cups)
– 1 large red or yellow bell pepper, diced (2 cups)
– 1 tablespoon peeled and finely minced fresh ginger
– 6 minced garlic cloves (2 tablespoons)
– 1 tablespoon coriander
– 2 teaspoons cumin
– 3/4 teaspoon paprika
– 3/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– 3 (14.5 oz) cans low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 (15 oz) can fire roasted diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup heaping quinoa, well rinsed and drained
– 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breasts or thighs
– 1 (14.5 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Instructions
1-First, prepare all ingredients by chopping the onion, garlic, and vegetables; rinse quinoa thoroughly to remove any bitterness.
2-In a large pot, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3-Add diced chicken breasts to the pot and cook until they begin to brown, approximately 5-7 minutes, ensuring even cooking for safety.
4-Stir in curry powder and allow it to toast for about one minute to release its full flavor.
5-Pour in low-sodium chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Add rinsed quinoa and chopped vegetables, then reduce heat to a simmer.
6-Let the soup simmer uncovered for 20 minutes or until quinoa is cooked and vegetables are tender.
7-Stir in coconut milk and let simmer for an additional 5 minutes for creaminess, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper.
8-Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime. For vegan or low-calorie adaptations, use plant-based proteins and light milk alternatives during the relevant steps.
Notes
π₯ For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken; the soup remains hearty and flavorful.
πΎ Always rinse quinoa thoroughly to remove bitterness even if pre-rinsed.
πΏ Avoid generic curry powder blends to maintain a balanced and precise spice flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 356 mg
- Fat: 19 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 37 g
- Fiber: 7 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 66 mg
