HEARTY SPINACH AND CHICKPEA SOUP

HEARTY SPINACH AND CHICKPEA SOUP image

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 11

2 cups uncooked brown rice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces (4 cups) fresh shiitake mushrooms, stems removed, caps thinly sliced
6 cups reduced-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, crumbled
1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 bags (5 ounces each) baby spinach leaves
Coarse salt and ground pepper, to taste
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Steps:

1. In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a rapid boil. Stir in brown rice and return to a boil; reduce heat to a simmer and cover. Cook, without lifting lid, for 30 minutes. 2. Meanwhile, in a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook, stirring frequently, until tender, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are tender, about 5 minutes. Add broth and rosemary; bring to a boil. Cover and remove from heat. 3. Check rice after 30 minutes; if it's not yet tender, cover and continue cooking, up to 10 more minutes. Stir 2 cups cooked rice and chickpeas into the broth; return to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, cover, and continue cooking for 5 more minutes to allow flavors to blend. 4. Stir in spinach and cook, uncovered, until just wilted, about 1 minute. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with cheese; serve immediately.