Bean soup

Bean Soup with Vegetables - A Comforting Delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4

Bean soup is a dish that brings back memories of hearty meals from childhood, where every spoonful was filled with flavors and goodness. This simple and healthy recipe is perfect for chilly days or moments when we crave comfort. With accessible ingredients and easy preparation, bean soup becomes a true feast for the whole family.

Necessary Ingredients

- 250 g dried beans (one plate)
- 2 medium onions
- 2 carrots
- ½ small celery root
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red for added color)
- 3 large tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Lovage, dill, and parsley (to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- Water (for boiling)

Ingredient Details

Dried beans are one of the healthiest legumes, rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins. Carrots add a sweet flavor and many vitamins, while celery and bell pepper enhance the soup's taste. Tomatoes not only enrich the soup's aroma but also add a touch of acidity, essential for a balanced flavor. Fresh herbs are also a key ingredient, bringing a fresh and invigorating taste.

Step by Step: How to Prepare Bean Soup

1. Preparing the beans: Start by thoroughly rinsing the dried beans under cold running water. Then, place them in a large pot with cold water and let them boil. Wait until the water starts to boil, then change the water. This step helps reduce cooking time and improves the digestibility of the beans.

2. Boiling the beans: Once you have changed the water, let the beans boil for about 20 minutes over medium heat. It’s important to check periodically to ensure they are not boiling too hard and disintegrating.

3. Preparing the vegetables: Meanwhile, peel and chop the vegetables. The onion can be finely chopped, the carrots and celery cut into small cubes, and the bell pepper sliced. These vegetables will add texture and flavor to your soup.

4. Adding the vegetables: After the 20 minutes of boiling the beans, add the chopped vegetables to the pot. Let them boil together with the beans until they become tender, about 15-20 minutes.

5. Tomatoes and tomato paste: Once the vegetables are nearly cooked, add the diced tomatoes and tomato paste. These will bring extra color and flavor to the soup.

6. Seasoning: Add salt to taste, being careful not to overdo it, as the soup will continue to concentrate as it simmers. Stir well and let the soup boil for another 10 minutes.

7. Finishing the dish: When all the ingredients are cooked, remove the pot from the heat and add the finely chopped herbs. Lovage, dill, and parsley will bring a fresh and aromatic flavor to the dish.

8. Serving: Bean soup is served hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. You can also drizzle a bit of olive oil for added flavor.

Helpful Tips for a Perfect Result

- If you want the beans to cook faster, you can soak them in cold water the night before. This simple trick will significantly reduce cooking time.
- Don’t hesitate to experiment with various vegetables depending on the season. For example, you can add zucchini or beetroot for a more colorful and nutritious version.
- If you enjoy a spicier flavor, add a finely chopped hot pepper along with the vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can the soup be frozen?
Yes, bean soup can be frozen. Make sure it is completely cooled before placing it in containers for freezing.

- How can I make the soup heartier?
You can add diced potatoes at the beginning of cooking. They will break down and thicken the soup.

- Is this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Bean soup is an excellent choice for those following a vegan or vegetarian diet.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

A serving of bean soup contains approximately 200 calories, making it an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins. It contributes to maintaining digestive health and may help with weight control.

Possible Variations

For a heartier version, you can add diced meat (such as pork or chicken) at the beginning of cooking. You can also experiment with different types of beans, such as red or black beans, to achieve different flavors.

Bean soup is more than just a simple dish; it’s a recipe that brings together tradition and comfort. Whether you enjoy it with family or prepare it for a dinner with friends, bean soup will surely be appreciated by everyone. So, embrace this simple and healthy recipe and enjoy every spoonful! Bon appétit!