- If Using Dried Chickpeas:
- Soak the chickpeas overnight in water. Drain and rinse them before cooking.
- Boil them in fresh water for about 1 hour, or until tender. Drain and set aside.
- If Using Canned Chickpeas:
- Simply drain and rinse them well.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
- Add the chickpeas, oregano, bay leaf, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20–25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Remove the bay leaf after cooking.
Step 4: Add Lemon and Season
- Stir in the lemon juice and season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste.
- For a thicker soup, use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup, then stir it back into the pot.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Drizzle with a little extra olive oil, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve with crusty bread or pita.