Bean soup

Bean soup: a beloved recipe, full of tradition and flavor. This comforting dish is not just a simple preparation, but a true culinary story that brings together simple ingredients in a symphony of aromas. In this guide, I will detail each step, offering useful tips and information about ingredients, cooking techniques, and possible variations to achieve a perfect bean soup.

Total time: 3 hours (including soaking time)
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients

- 1 kg of beans (preferably white beans or borscht beans)
- 1 bunch of green onions
- 1 bell pepper (red or green, as preferred)
- 2 raw tomatoes or 400 g of tomato puree
- 100 ml of oil (preferably sunflower oil or olive oil)
- 1 bunch of fresh lovage
- 1 carrot (optional, but recommended for added sweetness)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste

The History of Bean Soup

Bean soup is a popular dish in many cultures, with deep roots in traditional gastronomy. Over time, beans have been appreciated not only for their taste but also for their nutritional benefits. They are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and minerals, making this soup a healthy and nourishing choice.

It is a dish that can be served both on chilly winter days and on cool summer evenings, bringing a sense of warmth and comfort.

Step by Step: Preparing Bean Soup

1. Soaking the Beans:
Start by washing the beans well under cold running water. Then, place the beans in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Let them soak for at least 3 hours, but ideally overnight. This step is essential to reduce cooking time and improve the digestibility of the beans.

2. Boiling the Beans:
After the beans have soaked, drain the water and put the beans in a large pot. Cover them with fresh water and place on the stove. Once the water boils, remove the pot from the heat, drain the water, and repeat this process two more times. This step helps to eliminate substances that can cause digestive discomfort.

3. Cooking the Soup:
After the three boilings, add the beans back into the pot and cover with about 6 liters of boiling water. Let it simmer over medium heat for about 1 hour. This will allow the beans to become tender and release their flavor.

4. Adding the Vegetables:
While the beans are boiling, prepare the vegetables. Finely chop the green onions and dice the bell pepper. If using carrot, you can grate it or slice it into rounds. After an hour of boiling the beans, add the onion, carrot, peeled and diced tomatoes (or tomato puree), oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

5. Finalizing the Soup:
Let the soup simmer for another 30 minutes, allowing all the flavors to combine perfectly. Two minutes before removing it from the heat, add the finely chopped lovage, which will provide a fresh aroma and a special taste.

Practical Tips

- Types of Beans: You can experiment with different types of beans, such as red or black beans, to achieve a soup with a different flavor.
- Additional Vegetables: Add potatoes or celery to enrich the texture and taste of the soup.
- Spices: You can also introduce other spices, such as paprika or thyme, to add an extra aromatic note.

Nutrition and Benefits

Bean soup is an excellent nutritional choice. One serving (approximately 250 ml) of bean soup contains:

- Approximately 150-200 calories
- 10-12 g of protein
- 5-8 g of fiber
- Essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron, magnesium, and B vitamins

Regular consumption of beans helps maintain heart health, regulates blood sugar levels, and improves digestion.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned beans?
Yes, you can use canned beans to save time. In this case, skip the soaking and initial boiling steps, adding the canned beans in the last 15 minutes of cooking.

2. How can I serve bean soup?
Bean soup goes wonderfully with a slice of fresh bread or polenta. You can also add a spoonful of sour cream for an extra creaminess.

3. Can bean soup be frozen?
Absolutely! Bean soup freezes very well. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in containers for freezing.

Variations and Combinations

- Bean Soup with Smoked Meat: Add a few cubes of smoked meat or sausages for a richer and tastier version, ideal for meat lovers.
- Bean Soup with Greens: For an even fresher taste and aroma, you can add dill, parsley, or fresh basil instead of lovage.

Now that you have all the necessary information, I invite you to start cooking this delicious bean soup! It’s simple, comforting, and perfect for bringing family and friends around the table. Enjoy your meal!