Bean Soup Recipe

The bean soup recipe is a comforting and nutritious dish that has been enjoyed for centuries across various cultures. This hearty meal is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients, making it a perfect addition to your meal plan. In this article, we will walk you through a simple yet flavorful bean soup recipe, along with its history, ingredients, cooking time, servings, calorie count, cooking equipment, and step-by-step instructions. We’ll also suggest similar recipes and answer frequently asked questions about bean soup.

A Brief History of Bean Soup:

Beans have been cultivated for thousands of years and are a staple in many cuisines around the world. The origins of bean soup can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where it was a common meal among the Greeks and Romans. In Europe, bean soup gained popularity during the Middle Ages as a nutritious and affordable dish. Today, bean soup is enjoyed globally, with each region adding its own unique twist to the recipe.

Bean Soup Recipe

Pinklady

Beans have been cultivated for thousands of years and are a staple in many cuisines around the world. The origins of bean soup can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where it was a common meal among the Greeks and Romans. In Europe, bean soup gained popularity during the Middle Ages as a nutritious and affordable dish. Today, bean soup is enjoyed globally, with each region adding its unique twist to the recipe.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Servings 6

Calories 200 kcal

Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Ladle

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup dried beans (such as navy, kidney, or black beans), soaked overnight
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups spinach or kale, chopped (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

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Instructions

 

• Prepare the Beans: Drain and rinse the soaked beans. Set them aside.beans.
• Sauté vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
• Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the diced tomatoes, bay leaf, dried thyme, and paprika. Cook for another 2 minutes.
• Add Broth and Beans: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and add the drained beans. Bring the mixture to a boil.
• Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the beans are tender.
• Season to Taste: Remove the bay leaf and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If using, add the chopped spinach or kale and cook for another 5 minutes, until the greens are wilted.
• Finish with Lemon Juice: (Optional) Stir in the lemon juice for a burst of freshness before serving.
• Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and enjoy with crusty bread or a side salad.

Video

Keyword Bean Soup Recipe

Similar Recipes:

Lentil Soup: A protein-packed soup made with lentils, vegetables, and spices.
Split Pea Soup: A creamy and hearty soup made with split peas, ham, and vegetables.
Minestrone: An Italian vegetable soup with beans, pasta, and a variety of vegetables.
Chickpea Soup: A Mediterranean-inspired soup made with chickpeas, tomatoes, and herbs.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Bean Soup Recipe:

1. Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?

Yes, you can use canned beans. Simply drain and rinse them before adding them to the soup. Reduce the cooking time to about 30 minutes.

2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! After sautéing the vegetables, transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.

3. Can I freeze bean soup?

Yes, bean soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

4. What other vegetables can I add to this soup?

Feel free to add zucchini, bell peppers, potatoes, or any other vegetables you like.

5. How hot can I make this soup?

For an extra spicy kick, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

6. Is soup made of beans healthy?

Indeed, bean soup is a nutrient-dense lunch choice because it is high in fiber, protein, and vitamins.

7. Can I veganize this soup?

Absolutely, omit any optional non-vegan additions like cheese or meat and use vegetarian broth instead.

8. How long does bean soup keep refrigerated?

Bean soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to five days when kept in an airtight container.

Conclusion:

Bean soup is a versatile and nutritious dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight meal or a comforting bowl of warmth, this bean soup recipe is sure to satisfy. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of beans and vegetables to create your own unique version of this classic soup.

YouTube Video Credits:
Vegan Cocotte