Bean soup for fasting

Bean soup for fasting - A warm and comforting recipe

Bean soup is a traditional dish, full of flavor and with a rich history, often associated with family meals and festive moments. This recipe is perfect for fasting, but not only that. It is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a nutritious, hearty, and flavorful meal. Whether you are a cooking enthusiast or a novice, I invite you to discover the simple steps to make a delicious soup that will bring joy to your table.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients

- 300 g white beans (preferably soaked overnight)
- 3-4 carrots
- 1 small celery
- 1 onion
- 1 bell pepper
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon dried tarragon
- 1 sprig of lovage
- 3 garlic cloves
- 250 ml tomato puree
- 2 tablespoons white flour
- 100 ml oil
- Vinegar (to taste)
- Salt (to taste)

Preparing the ingredients

We start by preparing the ingredients. Wash the beans well under cold running water to remove impurities. If you chose to soak them overnight, this step becomes easier, and the soup will be easier to cook. In this case, soaking the beans in cold water for 8 hours helps reduce cooking time.

Step 1: Boiling the beans

1. Place the beans in a large pot and add about 1 liter of water.
2. Bring the water to a boil and let it boil for a few minutes. This will help remove any impurities that might cause yellow water.
3. Discard the first water, rinse the beans with cold water, and put them back in the pot, adding 3 liters of cold water.
4. Let it boil over medium heat for about 1 hour, or until the beans become soft. It is essential to check occasionally and add water if necessary.

Step 2: Preparing the vegetables

While the beans are boiling, prepare the vegetables:

1. Peel and finely chop the onion, carrots, celery, and bell pepper into cubes.
2. These vegetables will add a rich flavor and pleasant texture to your soup.

Step 3: Cooking the vegetables

1. After the beans have boiled for about an hour, add the chopped vegetables to the pot.
2. Continue to boil over medium heat until the vegetables are cooked and their aroma begins to be felt.

Step 4: Preparing the roux

In the meantime, we will prepare the roux:

1. In a pan, add the oil and let it heat over low heat.
2. Add the flour and stir continuously to form a golden roux (about 5 minutes).
3. When the roux has taken on a golden hue, turn off the heat and add the tomato puree, stirring well to avoid lumps.

Step 5: Combining the ingredients

1. After the vegetables in the pot are cooked, add the roux with tomato puree to the soup.
2. Adjust the salt and add vinegar to taste. Let it boil for 1-2 minutes for the flavors to combine.

Step 6: Finalizing the soup

1. Finally, add the crushed garlic with a garlic press, as well as the parsley, lovage, and tarragon, all finely chopped.
2. Mix well and let the soup cool slightly before serving.

Serving suggestion

Bean soup is served hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or croutons. You can also add a teaspoon of sour cream for extra creaminess.

Variations and useful tips

- If you want to add a splash of extra flavor, you can include a few bay leaves while boiling the beans.
- For a spicy version, you can add a few slices of hot pepper during cooking.
- Bean soup can be kept in the fridge for a few days and can be frozen for later consumption.

Nutritional benefits

Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins, being very beneficial for the digestive system and for maintaining heart health. This fasting soup is not only hearty but also a healthy choice for a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use canned beans?
- Yes, you can use canned beans, but make sure to rinse them well to remove excess sodium.

2. How can I make the soup spicier?
- Add fresh hot pepper or chili flakes during cooking, to taste.

3. Is the soup suitable for vegans?
- Absolutely! This recipe is completely vegan and fits perfectly into a fasting diet.

This bean soup for fasting is more than just a simple recipe; it is a dish that brings warmth and comfort to every bowl. With each bite, you will feel the richness of flavors and tradition, turning an ordinary meal into a true celebration. I invite you to try the recipe and share this delicacy with your loved ones!