Looking for a warm bowl of comfort? This bean soup recipe is hearty, nutritious, and easy to make! Packed with beans and fresh veggies, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any meal. I’ll guide you through simple steps to create this tasty dish, along with tips to customize it to your taste. Dive in and discover how to make bean soup that everyone will love!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Nutritious and Wholesome: This soup is packed with various beans and vegetables, providing a hearty dose of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in any seasonal vegetables you have on hand, making it a flexible choice for any pantry.
- Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a comforting meal.
- Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of spices and fresh herbs creates a rich flavor profile that will warm you up on cold days.
Ingredients
List of Key Ingredients
- 1 cup dried mixed beans (black beans, kidney beans, pinto beans)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 6 cups vegetable broth (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, including their juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
To make a great bean soup, you need some key ingredients. The dried mixed beans form the base. They give the soup its hearty texture and flavor. I like to use black beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans. You can find these at most stores.
Fresh vegetables add color and nutrition. Onions and garlic bring a strong taste. Carrots and celery add sweetness and crunch. Red bell pepper and zucchini lighten the dish. They also add more vitamins and minerals.
We use spices to enhance the taste. Ground cumin gives warmth. Smoked paprika adds a nice smokiness. Dried thyme brings a hint of earthiness. Salt and pepper help to balance everything out.
Liquid components are vital for a good soup. Vegetable broth gives depth. Diced tomatoes add acidity and sweetness. Together, these ingredients create a comforting bowl of bean soup that warms both the body and soul. You can customize this recipe. Feel free to try your favorite beans or veggies!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Beans
Start by rinsing the dried mixed beans under cold water. This helps remove dirt and dust. Next, soak the beans in a large bowl filled with water. Make sure the water covers the beans completely. Let them soak overnight. This softens the beans and helps them cook faster. The next day, drain the beans and set them aside.
Cooking the Soup
Heat a robust pot over medium heat. Add one tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the finely diced onion. Sauté the onion for about five minutes. You want it to become translucent and fragrant. Then, add two minced garlic cloves. Stir continuously for one minute until the garlic releases its aroma.
Next, add two diced carrots, two diced celery stalks, and one diced red bell pepper. Sauté these veggies for around five to seven minutes. This softens them and blends the flavors. Now, toss in one diced zucchini and the soaked mixed beans. Stir well to combine everything.
Carefully pour in six cups of vegetable broth. Then, add one can of diced tomatoes with their juice. Sprinkle in one teaspoon of ground cumin, one teaspoon of smoked paprika, and half a teaspoon of dried thyme. Season lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Final Cooking Steps
Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once it boils, lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Let the soup cook uncovered for 45 to 60 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Check the beans for tenderness. If the soup gets too thick, add more vegetable broth or water.
After cooking, taste the soup. Adjust the seasonings to your liking. Let the soup sit for a few minutes to enhance the flavors before serving. Serve the soup hot in bowls, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy your hearty and nutritious bean soup!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Soup Texture
To get the best texture, watch the soup as it cooks. Stir it often. The beans should be soft but not mushy. If the soup looks too thick, add broth or water slowly. This keeps the soup from drying out.
Flavor Boosting Techniques
Enhancing the flavor of your soup is easy. Here are some great ideas:
- Garnish Options: Fresh parsley adds color and taste. Feta cheese gives a nice salty kick. A drizzle of olive oil brings richness.
- Alternative Seasonings: Try adding cayenne pepper for heat. Italian herbs can give a nice, fresh twist.
Cooking Method Variations
You can cook bean soup in different ways. Each method has its perks.
- Stovetop: This is the classic way. It allows you to check the soup often.
- Slow Cooker: Great for hands-off cooking. Just set it and forget it.
- Instant Pot: This speeds up cooking time. You can have soup ready in a fraction of the time.
Pro Tips
- Soaking Beans: Soaking the beans overnight not only reduces cooking time but also helps to break down complex sugars that can cause digestive discomfort.
- Flavor Development: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes before serving enhances the flavors as they meld together, making each bowl more delicious.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add or substitute any seasonal vegetables you have on hand, such as sweet potatoes or kale, to customize the soup to your taste.
- Storage Tips: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 5 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months, making it a perfect make-ahead meal.
Variations
Different Bean Combinations
You can switch up the beans in your soup. Try using garbanzo beans or cannellini beans for a new twist. Each bean brings a unique taste and texture. You can also explore specialty blends. Look for mixed beans at the store. These blends often have fun colors and flavors, making your soup exciting.
Flavor Profile Adjustments
Adjust the flavor of your soup by adding spices. A pinch of cayenne pepper gives it a nice kick. Italian herbs like oregano or basil can add warmth. You can also add protein to make it heartier. Try shredded chicken, sliced sausage, or even tofu for a plant-based option. These additions not only boost the flavor but also make the soup more filling.
Dietary Adaptations
If you follow a vegan diet, this soup is easy to adapt. Just use vegetable broth, and skip any meat. You can also make it gluten-free by checking your broth and canned tomatoes. For those watching sodium, consider using low-sodium broth. You can even make your own broth at home. This way, you can control the salt and keep it healthy.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
You can store bean soup in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days. Use an airtight container for best results. Glass or plastic containers work well. Label them with the date to track freshness.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze bean soup, let it cool completely first. Pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Squeeze out air from bags before sealing. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. For thawing, place it in the fridge overnight. Reheat on the stove over low heat. Stir often to avoid burning.
Leftover Ideas
Use leftover soup as a base for chili. Add meat or more veggies for variety. You can also blend it to make a dip for bread or veggies. Meal prep? Divide the soup into portions for quick lunches. Just grab and go!
FAQs
How do I thicken bean soup?
To thicken your bean soup, you have a few easy methods. One way is to blend part of the soup. Use an immersion blender to puree some beans and liquid until smooth. This adds thickness without losing flavor. You can also mash some beans with a fork for a rustic texture. If you prefer, add a little cornstarch mixed with water. Stir it in and let it cook for a few minutes.
Can I use canned beans instead?
Yes, you can use canned beans to save time. Rinse and drain them well before adding to your soup. Since canned beans are already cooked, reduce the cooking time. Add them in the last 15 minutes of cooking. This way, they will heat and blend with the other flavors without becoming mushy.
What are the health benefits of bean soup?
Bean soup is packed with health benefits. It is high in fiber, which is good for digestion. Fiber helps you feel full, making it great for weight management. Beans also provide protein, which helps build and repair body tissues. Plus, they have vitamins and minerals like iron and potassium. This makes bean soup a nutritious choice for any meal.
Can I make bean soup without broth?
Absolutely! You can make bean soup without broth. Use water instead, but to enhance flavor, consider vegetable juice or tomato juice. These options add depth without using broth. Just be sure to season well, as plain water may not provide enough taste on its own.
This blog post guides you through making a hearty bean soup. We covered essential ingredients, cooking steps, tips for flavor, and variations to suit your taste. Remember to adjust the recipe for dietary needs or personal preferences. This soup not only warms your body but also nourishes you. Enjoying homemade bean soup can enhance your cooking skills. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftovers. Dive in, experiment, and savor each spoonful of your delicious creation!
