Bean soup (vegan)

Bean soup for fasting – A traditional recipe with a comforting flavor

Dear cooking enthusiasts, today I invite you to embark on a journey together in preparing a bean soup for fasting, a simple and flavorful recipe that reminds us of warm meals from childhood. This soup is not only comforting but also very nutritious, being an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins. Whether you enjoy it with loved ones or prepare it for a cooler day, the bean soup will surely bring a smile to the faces of those who taste it.

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

The history of bean soup is fascinating, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. Beans have been cultivated for thousands of years, and bean-based dishes are appreciated not only for their taste but also for their nutritional benefits. In this context, bean soup proves to be not just a delicious main course but also a healthy choice, rich in nutrients.

Necessary ingredients:
- 250 g of beans (white or yellow)
- 2 large onions
- 2 carrots
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 small celery
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 3 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- A handful of fresh parsley
- A handful of lovage (if available, fresh is ideal, but frozen is also good)

Step by step, let’s begin the preparation!

1. Hydrating the beans:
Start by selecting the beans. Wash them well under cold running water, then place them in a large bowl and cover them with water. Let the beans hydrate for at least 6 hours or, if you have time, ideally overnight. This step will help the beans cook faster and become more digestible.

2. Cooking the beans:
After the beans have been hydrated, discard the water they soaked in and place them in a large pot. Add about 2.5 liters of cold water and bring it to a boil. It is recommended to have another pot of hot water ready, which you will use to replace the water in which the beans are boiling. This trick helps remove any impurities and results in a clearer soup.

3. Changing the water:
Once the water starts boiling, change it three times, always adding hot water. This process will take about 30 minutes. The beans should become soft but not fully cooked.

4. Adding the vegetables:
To the last 2.5 liters of water where you added the beans, add the finely chopped onion, sliced carrot, bell pepper, and cubed celery. This will add a delicious flavor to the soup. Let the vegetables cook together with the beans for about 30 minutes.

5. Seasoning:
After the vegetables have softened, add the tomato paste, salt, pepper, bay leaves, and thyme. Mix well and let the soup boil for another 15 minutes, checking occasionally if the beans are fully cooked.

6. Sautéed onion:
In a small pan, chop the other onion and sauté it in a little oil until soft, but do not burn it. This sautéed onion will add a deep flavor to the soup. Finally, add the sautéed onion to the pot with the bean soup, stirring gently. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes.

7. Finalizing:
Turn off the heat and add the chopped parsley and lovage. These herbs will provide a fresh touch and a vibrant taste to the soup. Let the soup cool slightly before serving.

8. Serving:
The bean soup is served hot, ideally alongside a slice of fresh rustic bread, making every bite an unforgettable experience. You can add a teaspoon of olive oil or a few drops of balsamic vinegar for a more intense flavor.

Practical tips:
- If you have it on hand, add a few celery leaves for added flavor.
- This soup is even tastier the next day when the flavors have had time to meld.
- You can also add a few green peppercorns for a spicy note, thus adapting the recipe to your preferences.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned beans?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Canned beans are already cooked, so you can add them in the last 10-15 minutes of boiling.
- How can I store the bean soup?
The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It can also be frozen to be enjoyed later.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving of fasting bean soup contains approximately 250 calories, being rich in protein, fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, as well as essential minerals such as iron, magnesium, and potassium. This is an excellent choice for a healthy diet, contributing to heart health and digestive system maintenance.

Delicious combinations:
Bean soup pairs perfectly with a fresh summer salad or a garlic yogurt sauce, adding a touch of freshness. Additionally, a light beer or a dry white wine can perfectly complement the meal.

I hope this fasting bean soup recipe brings you joy and warmth in your soul. Cooking is an art, and every recipe is an opportunity to create memorable moments with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!