Cook them with a pinch of salt in oil over medium heat until they soften slightly, about 5 minutes.
Add turmeric, paprika, cumin, and chili flakes, and continue cooking for about 30 seconds to release their aroma without burning.
Introduce roasted bell pepper strips to the mix.
Incorporate canned tomatoes and let them simmer on low heat, covered, for around 10 minutes.
Once the tomatoes have deepened in flavor, stir in pomegranate molasses and season with more salt and pepper to taste.
Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy.
If needed, add a bit of water to achieve your desired soup thickness.
Add cinnamon and canned chickpeas, then cover and simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with aromatic herbs and accompanied by a slice of bread.
Quick Note
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Notes
Blending for Creaminess: For a creamier texture, blend half of the soup using an immersion blender or standard blender. Be sure to allow steam to escape if using a standard blender to prevent pressure from building up. This technique thickens the soup, adding a silky smooth consistency without additional cream.
Adjusting Liquid Quantity: Depending on your preference for soup thickness, you may need to adjust the amount of water or vegetable broth. Start with less liquid and add more as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
Spice Variations: Feel free to experiment with different spices according to your taste. Adding a bay leaf during cooking can introduce a subtle layer of flavor. A pinch of saffron can also add an exotic touch and a beautiful color to the dish.
Serving Size Adjustments: Although this recipe is designed for a single serving, it can easily be doubled or tripled to serve more people or to ensure leftovers. Simply multiply the ingredients accordingly and follow the same cooking instructions.
Nutritional Boost: For an extra nutritional boost, consider adding spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking. These greens will wilt down and add vitamins and minerals to your soup without altering the flavor profile significantly.
Alternative Sweeteners: If you're substituting pomegranate sauce and prefer a hint of sweetness, consider adding a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup. This can balance the acidity of the tomatoes and complement the spices well.