Bean soup

Bean soup – comfort in every spoon

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 75 minutes
Number of servings: 4

If you are looking for a simple yet very tasty soup recipe, you have come to the right place! Bean soup is a rustic dish, full of flavor and, at the same time, healthy. This recipe is perfect for cool days, but also for moments when you want to indulge in a bowl full of comfort.

A brief story about bean soup: This dish has a long history and is appreciated in various cultures for its versatility and low cost. Beans, an excellent source of plant protein, have been consumed for generations, and bean soup has become a symbol of a hearty, healthy, and nourishing meal.

Necessary ingredients:

- 300 g beans (preferably white or yellow)
- 1 large carrot
- 1 medium onion
- 1/2 celery root
- 1 bell pepper (or 1 tablespoon of pepper paste)
- 3 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2-3 fresh lovage leaves
- 2-3 fresh dill leaves
- 2-3 fresh parsley leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste

Necessary tools:

- Large pot
- Grater
- Knife
- Wooden spoon
- Skimmer (optional)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the beans: The night before, soak the beans in cold water. This step is essential as it helps reduce cooking time and improves the digestibility of the beans. Make sure to use enough water to completely cover the beans, as they will swell.

2. Boiling the beans: In the morning, drain the soaked beans and rinse them well. Place the beans in a large pot, add fresh water (about 2 liters), and bring to a boil over low heat. It is important to maintain a low flame to prevent the beans from breaking.

3. Changing the water: After about 30 minutes, when the beans are half-cooked, drain the water and add hot water again. This trick helps remove substances that can cause gastric discomfort.

4. Adding the vegetables: At this point, add the finely chopped onion, diced bell pepper, grated carrot, and grated celery. These vegetables will add sweetness and flavor to your soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Complete cooking: Let the soup boil for 20-25 minutes, until the beans are fully cooked. Check the texture of the beans and vegetables; they should be soft but not mushy.

6. Adding the tomato paste: When the beans are ready, add the tomato paste and dried thyme. Mix well and let it boil for another 5 minutes to combine the flavors.

7. Finishing the soup: Turn off the heat and add the finely chopped herbs: lovage, dill, and parsley. These will give a fresh and vibrant taste to your soup.

8. Serving: You can serve the bean soup plain, but if you want to enrich it, add a tablespoon of sour cream to each serving. A delicious variation is to serve it with green or red onion on top. Don't forget a slice of homemade bread, which is perfect for dipping in the soup!

Useful tips:

- Choosing the beans: You can use different types of beans, such as black beans, red beans, or even lentils, to add a note of diversity.
- Storage: Bean soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be frozen for later consumption.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables depending on the season, such as zucchini or broccoli, to give your soup a variety of textures and flavors.

Nutritional benefits: Bean soup is rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. It is an excellent choice for those looking to include more plant-based ingredients in their diet, having a low calorie content, making it ideal for those who are mindful of their caloric intake.

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?
- You can add hot peppers or chili flakes during preparation to give it a spicy note.

3. Is bean soup vegan?
- Yes, this recipe is completely vegan, but you can adjust the ingredients if you want to add dairy products.

4. What can I pair with this soup?
- Bean soup is delicious alongside a fresh green salad or a platter of grilled vegetables.

I hope this bean soup recipe has whetted your appetite and inspired you to try it! Every spoonful is full of love and warmth, and preparing it can be a true pleasure. Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen and savor the final result!