Bean soup with bell pepper

Bean soup is a traditional dish, full of flavor and nutrients, that delights our senses and warms our souls on cold days. This bean soup recipe with bell pepper is not only a healthy option but also a true aromatic feast, rich in vitamins and minerals. Perfect for family gatherings or chilly days, this soup is an ideal choice to bring warmth and comfort to the plate.

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

Ingredients:
- 500 g large white or yellow beans
- 2 liters of water
- Salt to taste
- 1 small bunch of greens (parsley or lovage), finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons sunflower oil
- 1 cup tomato juice
- 2 carrots (for sautéing and boiling)
- ½ medium celery root (for sautéing and boiling)
- 1 bell pepper (for sautéing)
- 1 red bell pepper (for sautéing)
- 2 medium onions (for boiling)

History of bean soup
Bean soup has deep roots in culinary tradition, being appreciated by generations for its comforting taste and nutritional benefits. Beans, an extremely versatile legume, are rich in protein and fiber, making bean soup an ideal choice for a healthy meal. This recipe has evolved over time, with each region contributing local ingredients, but the essence remains the same: a nourishing and flavorful soup.

Preparation steps:

Step 1: Preparing the beans
1. Rinse the beans well under cold running water to remove impurities.
2. Place the beans in a large pot, add 2 liters of water, and let them soak for at least 4 hours (ideally overnight). This step will reduce cooking time and aid digestion.

Step 2: Boiling the beans
1. After soaking, drain the water and place the beans back in the pot, adding fresh water.
2. Add the vegetables for boiling: 1 whole red bell pepper, 1 whole bell pepper, ½ celery root, and 2 whole onions, all washed and peeled.
3. Bring to a boil and let the beans cook for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Cleaning the beans
1. Once boiling, drain the beans and vegetables and rinse them under cold water. This step will help remove bean skins, which can be unpleasant in texture.
2. Gently rub the beans with your hands to remove the skins. They will come off easily.

Step 4: Cooking the vegetables
1. In a pan, add 2 teaspoons of sunflower oil and sauté 1 chopped bell pepper, 1 red bell pepper, ½ celery root, and 2 diced carrots.
2. Sauté the vegetables until they become slightly translucent and aromatic, then add salt to taste and deglaze with 1 cup of tomato juice. Let simmer on low heat for 5-10 minutes.

Step 5: Finalizing the soup
1. Return the beans to the pot with water and add the sautéed vegetable mixture.
2. Let the soup simmer on low heat for another 30 minutes until the beans are soft and all flavors blend harmoniously.
3. Finally, add the finely chopped greens, stir well, and turn off the heat.

Serving and suggestions
Bean soup is served hot, ideally accompanied by fresh red onion, hot pepper, or tarragon in vinegar. You can also add a slice of fresh bread for extra flavor.

Possible variations
To add a personal twist to your recipe, you can experiment with:
- Adding a few slices of smoked meat (such as sausage or ham) for a richer taste.
- Replacing tomato juice with tomato paste or diced fresh tomatoes.
- Adding spices like paprika or cumin for a spicier flavor.

Useful tips:
- Check the beans during boiling to ensure they do not overcook. The beans should be soft but retain their shape.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the beans after boiling.
- You can store the soup in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze it to enjoy later.

Nutritional benefits
Bean soup is not only delicious but also extremely healthy. Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, iron, and B vitamins, essential for a balanced diet. By consuming this soup, you not only enjoy a tasty dish but also gain significant nutritional value.

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 long can I keep bean soup?
Bean soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be frozen for later consumption.

3. Is bean soup suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is completely vegan, but you can adapt the ingredients according to your preferences.

Enjoy preparing this delicious bean soup! Each spoonful brings not only flavor but also a story full of tradition and love.