Chick-pea and cilantro soup

2 servings

Ingredients

QuantityIngredient
2cupsOnion(s), chopped
About 2 medium
1tablespoonOlive oil
4cupsWater
1can(19oz) chick-peas
Rinsed and drained
3Mini pita loaves
About 1\" in diameter
Halved crosswise
2largesGarlic clove(s), chopped
½teaspoonSalt or to taste
½cupPacked cilantro sprigs
Washed and spun dry
2teaspoonsLemon juice
Or to taste
4teaspoonsExtra-virgin olive oil
1teaspoonGround cumin
½teaspoonSalt

Directions

CROUTON-CRISPS

In a 3-quart heavy saucepan cook onion in oil over moderate heat, stirring, until softened and golden brown. Add water, chick-peas, garlic, and salt and simmer, uncovered, 15 min. In a blender puree chick-pea mixture and cilantro with lemon juice until smooth.

Serve topped with cumin pita crouton-crisps.

Crouton-Crisps:

Preheat oven to 400 F.

Cut pita halves into ⅓-inch strips and in a small bowl toss with oil until coated evenly. Add cumin and salt and toss until spices adhere.

In a shallow baking pan spread pita strips in one layer and bake in middle of oven 3 min, or until crisp and golden.

Can be kept in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

Serve in soups, salads, or as a snack.

Makes about 2 cups.

Gourmet Magazine

January 1996

Submitted By DIANE LAZARUS On 12-27-95