Chickpea Soup

Directions

1. 1
   In medium saucepan, heat oil over medium heat.
2. 2
   Add onion and garlic and cook, stirring often, until onion has softened and begins to brown, about 10 minutes.
3. 3
   Add chickpeas, bay leaf, parsley and 4 cups water.
4. 4
   Stir well, cover and bring to a boil.
5. 5
   Reduce heat, partially cover and simmer, about 15 minutes.
6. 6
   Stir in salt.
7. 7
   Remove bay leaf and, working in batches, puree soup in food processor or blender until very creamy.
8. 8
   (Do not fill blender more than halfway; hold down blender lid with towel.)
9. 9
   Return soup to pot and add lemon juice.
10. 10
    Ladle soup into bowls and drizzle 1/2 teaspoon of Moroccan Spice Oil onto each serving if desired.
11. 11
    Sprinkle with chopped parsley.