15 Bean Soup

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to wrap you in a comforting embrace on a chilly day. Imagine cozying up with a hearty serving of 15 bean soup, a dish that feels just like a hug from an old friend. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it the perfect addition to your dining table, whether it’s a family gathering or a quiet evening at home. Trust me, this soup checks all the boxes for pure comfort food.

The key ingredients in this delightful dish include a colorful mix of fifteen different beans that provide a wonderful texture and depth of flavor. Adding to that are aromatic vegetables like a chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery, along with garlic that offers a fragrant touch. The inclusion of canned diced tomatoes gives a slight sweetness and acidity, while the vegetable broth acts as the foundation for this nourishing soup. Seasoned with cumin and thyme, it strikes a lovely balance of earthiness, making every spoonful a treat.

Preparing this delicious soup is a breeze, even for novice cooks. Start by rinsing and soaking the beans overnight or for at least six hours to ensure they cook evenly. Then, sauté the chopped vegetables in olive oil until they are tender, add the garlic, and then mix in the beans, tomatoes, and broth. Bring it all to a simmer, let it cook for an hour and a half to two hours, and you’ll have a pot of goodness ready to serve.

This 15 bean soup is perfect for chilly nights when you crave something warm and satisfying. It’s also a great choice for potlucks or family gatherings, as it makes a large batch that everyone can enjoy. Plus, with its simple ingredients and straightforward cooking method, it can be an easy, make-ahead option for busy days.

Why You’ll Love This 15 Bean Soup

• Nutritious: Packed with fiber from various beans, this soup supports heart health and digestion.
• Comfort Food: The warm, hearty texture helps to soothe and satisfy.
• Versatile: You can adjust the recipe based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.
• Easy to Make: It requires minimal effort but delivers amazing flavor.
• Budget-Friendly: With simple, inexpensive ingredients, it’s perfect for anyone looking to save money without sacrificing taste.

Bean Selection Tips

The star of this 15 bean soup is, of course, the beans themselves. When selecting a 15 bean mix, look for a package that includes a variety of textures, flavors, and colors. These often contain white beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, and more, offering a delightful medley. Ensure that the beans are whole and free from any chips or imperfections. If possible, you might want to buy from a bulk bin, as this allows you to choose exactly the amount you need and check the freshness directly.

Options for Substitutions

• Use vegetable stock instead of broth for an extra depth of flavor.
• Swap the olive oil for coconut oil for a hint of sweetness.
• Replace the canned tomatoes with fresh diced tomatoes for a summer variation.
• Use dried herbs like oregano or basil if you do not have cumin or thyme on hand.
• Opt for low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.
• Try different types of beans, like black beans or chickpeas, if you prefer a change.

Watch Out for These Mistakes

When making 15 bean soup, a few common pitfalls can occur. One major issue is not soaking the beans long enough. This can lead to uneven cooking and hard beans that just won’t soften. Always allow them to soak overnight or at least cross the six-hour mark to ensure they are primed and ready for cooking.

Another mistake is overcooking the vegetables in the initial sautéing step. While you want them tender, do not let them brown too much; this can lead to a bitter flavor that doesn’t pair well with the soup. Instead, patiently cook them until just soft.

Be mindful when it comes to adding the garlic. The garlic should only be cooked for a short while to prevent bitterness; one minute is usually sufficient. Too often, garlic gets overcooked, resulting in a harsh, burnt taste that overwhelms the soup.

Finally, don’t rush the simmering process. Allow it to cook low and slow for the full hour and a half to two hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking but be patient with the simmer. This is where the flavors meld beautifully.

What to Serve With 15 Bean Soup?

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for balance. Freshly baked cornbread or crusty sourdough bread is another great option, perfect for dipping into the soup. And for something a touch lighter, a side of roasted vegetables can round out the meal, adding extra color and nutrition.

Storage Instructions

Store: Keep the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freeze: For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months.

Reheat: To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also use the microwave, heating in short intervals until fully warmed through.

Recipe Info

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
Total Time: Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Servings: Approximately 6 to 8 servings

Estimated Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):

• Calories: 800-1000
• Protein: 40-50 grams
• Fat: 15-20 grams
• Carbohydrates: 130-150 grams

Ingredients

• 15 bean mix
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Rinse and Soak Beans

Start by rinsing the 15 bean mix under cold water to remove any dust or debris. Once rinsed, place the beans in a bowl and cover them with plenty of water. Allow them to soak overnight or for at least 6 hours. This soaking process helps the beans to cook evenly and reduces cooking time.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté these vegetables for about 5 to 7 minutes or until they are tender and fragrant. Their natural sweetness will enhance the flavor of the soup.

Step 3: Add Garlic

After the vegetables have softened, add the minced garlic to the pot. Stir it into the vegetables and cook for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to release its aroma without burning. This step adds a lovely depth to your soup.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Drain the soaked beans and add them to your pot. Next, stir in the canned diced tomatoes and pour in the vegetable broth. Add the cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper, and mix everything well to combine the flavors.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally while cooking to ensure that nothing sticks to the bottom and that the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the beans are tender and the flavors have developed, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot in bowls, perhaps with a slice of bread on the side. Enjoy your warm bowl of 15 bean soup with loved ones for a comforting meal!

In summary, this 15 bean soup is not only a delightful and nourishing dish but also a simple and satisfying recipe that anyone can make. I encourage you to try it out, share your experience, and explore similar warming recipes in your kitchen. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, this soup is naturally vegetarian and can easily be made vegan as long as you use vegetable broth.

Can I prepare this soup in advance?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge or freezer, then reheat when ready to serve.

How do I know when the beans are done?

The beans are done when they are tender and can easily be mashed between your fingers. If they still have some bite, let them simmer a little longer and check again.

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