Bean soup with two types of beans (dry and green)

Name: Bean soup with two types of beans (dry and green) - Daciana E.
Ingredients: 1 onion; 1 clove of garlic; 1 large carrot; 500 g homemade tomato sauce (or peeled tomatoes); 1 medium bowl of beans (cleaned and then frozen); 1 jar/can of green beans; 440 g; sweet paprika; thyme; bay leaf; chopped parsley

Soups - Bean soup with two types of beans (dry and green) by Daciana E. - Recipia

Bean soup with two types of beans - a delicious and nourishing recipe, perfect for days when we want to enjoy a light yet flavorful meal. The combination of kidney beans and green beans not only provides a contrast of textures but also a rich and comforting taste. Ideal for fasting periods, this soup will surely become a family favorite. Total preparation time: 1 hour Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 40 minutes Servings: 4-6 Necessary ingredients: - 1 medium onion - 1 clove of garlic - 1 large carrot - 500 g homemade tomato sauce (or peeled tomatoes) - 1 medium bowl of kidney beans (about 200-250 g, cleaned and then frozen) - 1 jar/can of green beans (about 440 g) - 1 teaspoon sweet paprika - 1-2 sprigs of dried thyme - 1 bay leaf - Salt and pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish - 1-2 tablespoons oil for sautéing Useful tips about ingredients: - Kidney beans: You can use white or red beans, depending on your preference. If using dried beans, remember to soak them the night before. - Tomato sauce: A homemade tomato sauce recipe can add extra flavor. Cook fresh tomatoes for 15-20 minutes with a little garlic and basil, then puree them. - Green beans: You can use frozen or fresh green beans, cut into smaller pieces. Step-by-step preparation: 1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling and finely chopping the onion and garlic. Then, peel the carrot and slice it into thin rounds. These basic elements will give a wonderful taste to your soup. 2. Boiling the kidney beans: If using dried beans, soak them the night before. The next day, change the water and boil the beans for 30 minutes. If using frozen beans, you can skip this step. 3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until they become lightly golden and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. 4. Adding the carrot: Place the carrot rounds in the pot and continue to cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. 5. Including the beans: If you boiled the kidney beans, add them to the pot now. If using frozen beans, add them along with the tomato sauce. Mix well to combine the flavors. 6. Adding the liquid: Pour 1.5 - 2 liters of boiling water into the pot. Add the thyme, bay leaf, and season with salt, pepper, and sweet paprika. Stir again. 7. Boiling the soup: Cover the pot and let the soup simmer on low heat for 40 minutes. Check occasionally to ensure the kidney beans are nearly cooked. 8. Adding the green beans: About 10 minutes before turning off the heat, add the green beans to the soup. This will add a splash of color and a crunchy texture. 9. Finalizing the dish: When the kidney beans are cooked, remove the bay leaf and thyme. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning to your preference. 10. Serving: Pour the hot soup into bowls and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley on top. A perfect combination is to serve it with a piece of warm polenta, which will wonderfully complement the soup's flavors. Possible variations: - You can add other vegetables, such as celery or bell peppers, to diversify the taste. - If you like spicy flavors, add a chopped chili pepper. - For a heartier version, you can also include some diced potatoes. Nutritional benefits: This soup is rich in plant-based proteins, fiber, and essential vitamins, making it an excellent choice for a healthy diet. Beans are a good source of iron and antioxidants, while fresh vegetables contribute to vitamin and mineral intake. Frequently asked questions: - Can I use other types of beans? Yes, you can experiment with different types of beans, depending on your preferences. - Can I freeze the soup? Yes, the soup can be frozen, but it is recommended to add the green beans after thawing to maintain the texture. - How can I enhance the flavor of the soup? You can add spices like oregano or basil for an extra flavor boost. This two-bean soup is not only a simple and quick recipe but also an opportunity to gather the family around the table, savor moments together, and enjoy a healthy dish. Enjoy your meal!