Bean cream soup

Mashed Beans with Delicious Cream Soup

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of Servings: 4-6

Mashed beans are a classic dish, appreciated for their versatility and comforting taste. This recipe will not only bring joy to your plate but will transform a simple ingredient like beans into a refined delicacy. You will discover how to create a delicious cream soup from a basic recipe in just a few simple steps.

Ingredients:

- 250 g beans (preferably white or yellow)
- 1 medium onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 parsnip
- 50 ml olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water (enough for boiling)

Preparation Instructions:

Step 1: Preparing the Beans
Start by washing the beans thoroughly under cold running water. Make sure to remove impurities or damaged beans. Then, soak the beans in a large bowl, completely covered with water, letting them sit overnight. This process will not only reduce the cooking time but will also make the beans easier to digest.

Step 2: Boiling the Beans
In the morning, drain the beans and rinse them again. Place them in a large pot with fresh water. Once it reaches a boil, add the quartered onion, whole carrot, and parsnip. These aromatic vegetables will enrich the flavor of the dish. Boil the beans for about 40-50 minutes, or until the beans become very tender and break apart easily.

Step 3: Creating the Cream Soup
After the beans are cooked, drain the liquid into a bowl, saving it for the next step. Remove the boiled vegetables and discard them or use them in other dishes. In a blender, place the cooked beans, add olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste. Blend until you achieve a smooth and creamy paste. If the paste is too thick, gradually add the reserved liquid, mixing until you reach the desired consistency.

Step 4: Finishing the Dish
Once you have a smooth consistency, take a spoonful of the bean paste and mix it with the reserved liquid to create a delicious cream soup. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Serving
Serve the bean cream soup warm, garnished with crispy croutons. You can also add a few drops of olive oil or some fresh parsley for a more appealing look and additional flavor. This combination of textures and flavors will surely impress anyone at your table.

Practical Tips:
1. Types of Beans: You can experiment with different types of beans, such as red or black beans, but make sure to adjust the cooking time, as they may require longer.
2. Substitute Oil: Olive oil can be replaced with sunflower oil or butter for a different taste.
3. Flavor Additions: If you want to enhance the flavor, you can add some herbs like thyme or rosemary during boiling.
4. Storage: The bean cream soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for a quick meal on hand.

Nutritional Benefits:
Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins. They contribute to healthy digestion and can help maintain blood sugar levels. Additionally, they are low in calories, making them an ideal choice for those looking to maintain or lose weight.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use canned beans?: Yes, it’s a quick option, but make sure to rinse them well to remove excess sodium.
- How can I make the soup spicier?: Add a bit of chopped chili pepper or chili flakes during blending.
- What other dishes can I serve alongside mashed beans?: This cream soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a platter of grilled vegetables.

Personal Stories:
I remember the first time I made mashed beans with cream soup. It was a gloomy winter day, and seeking comfort on my plate, I decided to experiment with a classic recipe. The result was so delightful that I invited all my friends over for dinner to share this discovery. Since then, it has become one of my favorite recipes, always bringing a smile to my loved ones’ faces.

I encourage you to try this mashed bean recipe, not just for its flavor but also for the moments of connection it can bring around the table. By experimenting with ingredients and flavors, you will transform simple bean seeds into an unforgettable culinary experience!