Bean soup

Bean soup is a classic dish, beloved for its traditions and depth of flavor, that brings to mind hearty meals on cool days. It is a versatile recipe, ideal for those seeking a nourishing, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish. This soup is not only tasty but also very healthy, based on beans, a rich source of protein and fiber that contributes to a balanced diet.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Essential ingredients for bean soup:
- 500 g beans (preferably white or yellow for a creamy texture)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow for added color and sweetness)
- 2 carrots (for a sweet taste and a note of freshness)
- 1 celery root (optional, but recommended for its distinct aroma)
- 1 parsley root (optional, adds a note of freshness)
- 1 l borscht (or more, to taste)
- 3 tablespoons oil (sunflower or olive)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (for vibrant color and deep flavor)
- Thyme (for an irresistible aroma)
- 1 bunch of fresh lovage (for a fresh and aromatic taste)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley (for added freshness)
- Salt and Delikat (to taste)

Preparation of bean soup - Step by step:

1. Preparing the beans:
Start by rinsing the beans under cold running water. Then, soak them in cold water for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight. This step is essential as it helps reduce cooking time and aids digestion.

2. Boiling the beans:
After soaking, drain the water and place the beans in a pot with fresh water. Let them boil over medium heat for 20 minutes, then change the water to hot water. This trick helps remove excess foam and substances that can make the soup harder to digest.

3. Preparing the vegetables:
Meanwhile, peel and finely chop the onion, bell pepper, carrots, celery root, and parsley. Using a sharp knife will make your work easier and the vegetables will have a uniform cut, resulting in an appealing soup appearance.

4. Adding the vegetables:
Once the beans are half-cooked, add the chopped vegetables, tomato paste, and a pinch of salt or Delikat. Let it simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The soup will start to develop a wonderful aroma, and the vegetables will gradually soften.

5. Adding the borscht:
Near the end, when all the vegetables are cooked, add the borscht. I recommend adding it gradually, tasting along the way to adjust the acidity to your preference. Let it boil for another 5-10 minutes to blend the flavors.

6. Finalizing the soup:
When the soup comes to a boil, it's time to add thyme and the chopped greens (lovage and parsley). These will not only give a wonderful taste but also a vibrant look to your soup.

7. Serving:
Bean soup is served hot, but I wholeheartedly recommend trying it cold, as I enjoy it, alongside finely chopped green onion. This adds a crunchy note and a fresh aroma. It can be accompanied by a slice of fresh bread, pickled cucumbers, or hot peppers, according to your preferences.

Useful tips:
- If you want a heartier soup, you can also add some diced potatoes. They will cook quickly and give the soup a creamy texture.
- You can experiment with spices, adding sweet paprika or pepper for a more intense flavor.
- Bean soup keeps very well in the fridge, and the taste becomes even better the next day, when the flavors have had time to blend.

Nutritional benefits:
Bean soup is an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is low in calories, making it ideal for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. Beans are known for their beneficial effects on digestion and heart health.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned beans for this recipe?
- Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Canned beans are already cooked, so they don't require prolonged boiling.

2. How can I make this soup spicier?
- Add fresh or dried hot peppers during cooking, according to your preferences.

3. What other ingredients can I add?
- You can experiment with mushrooms, zucchini, or even a few spinach leaves to add extra nutrients.

Bean soup is more than just a simple dish; it is a story of culinary traditions and home comfort. Try this recipe, enjoy its flavors, and share it with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!