Bean soup - fasting

Bean soup for fasting is one of those recipes that reminds us of our grandparents and family meals, full of flavors and warmth. It is a comforting soup, rich in nutrients and ideal for a healthy diet. With accessible ingredients and simple preparation, this recipe will immediately transport you to your grandmother's kitchen atmosphere. Let's see step by step how to prepare this delicious dish!

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

Required ingredients:
- 250 g dried beans (soaked overnight in water)
- 2 carrots
- 2 parsnips (small parsnips are perfect)
- 1/4 celery
- 2 large onions
- 1 small bell pepper
- 200 ml tomato juice (or a heaping tablespoon of diluted tomato paste in water)
- Oil (amount may vary according to preferences)
- 1 bunch of lovage
- 1 bunch of parsley
- Salt (to taste)

Step-by-step guide:

1. Preparing the beans:
Start by draining the beans you soaked overnight. This will help reduce cooking time and improve digestibility. Place the beans in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and let simmer for 10 minutes.

2. Changing the water:
After 10 minutes, drain the water and add fresh water. This step is essential to get rid of some substances that can cause digestive discomfort. Repeat this process 2 more times. In the third water, the beans should be half-soft.

3. Adding the vegetables:
While the beans are boiling, prepare the vegetables. Peel and finely chop the carrots, parsnip, celery, and onion. When the beans are half-cooked, add the chopped vegetables to the pot. They will add not only flavor but also essential nutrients to your soup.

4. Incorporating the bell pepper and oil:
Chop the small bell pepper and add it to the pot. You can use oil according to your preferences. A generous splash will make the soup richer in flavors, but you can opt for a smaller amount if you prefer a lighter recipe.

5. Adding the tomato juice:
After the vegetables have boiled together with the beans for about 15 minutes, it’s time to add the tomato juice. This will give the soup a vibrant color and a fresh taste. Let everything simmer for a few moments.

6. Adjusting the taste:
Finally, season the soup with salt to taste and add the chopped herbs (lovage and parsley). These aromatic plants will enhance the flavor of the soup and bring a touch of freshness.

7. Finishing the dish:
Let the soup simmer for a few more moments, then remove it from the heat. The bean soup for fasting is now ready to be enjoyed!

Serving:
The soup is served hot, alongside hot peppers, green or dried onions, and pickles. These accompaniments will add texture and extra flavor. I recommend serving it with a slice of freshly baked bread to soak up every drop of soup.

Useful tips:
- Recipe variations: You can experiment by adding other vegetables, such as zucchini or potatoes, to diversify the recipe. You can also use spices like pepper or sweet paprika to customize the flavor.
- Storage: If you have leftover soup, don’t worry! Bean soup keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days and can be frozen for later consumption.
- Nutritional values: Bean soup is rich in plant proteins, fiber, and vitamins, making it an excellent choice for a healthy meal. One serving contains approximately 180 calories, providing a great source of energy.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned beans?: Although you can use canned beans, they won’t need as much cooking time. Add them at the end along with the tomato juice.
- Is the bean soup for fasting?: Yes, the recipe is completely meat-free, suitable for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet.
- Can meat be added?: If you prefer a meat version, you can add a few pieces of smoked bacon or sausages, but this will change the character of the recipe.

Complementary recipes:
Bean soup pairs wonderfully with a pickled salad, such as sauerkraut or pickles. Additionally, mashed potatoes or warm polenta are ideal accompaniments to complete the meal.

Whether you choose to prepare it for a family dinner or to treat yourself after a long day, bean soup will bring a touch of comfort and familiarity to every spoonful. Enjoy your meal!