Bean soup with tarragon and lovage (without oil)

Bean soup with tarragon and lovage (oil-free) – a delicious, healthy, and aromatic recipe, perfect for fasting days or for those who want to enjoy a light dish. With a mix of fresh vegetables and spices, this soup is not just a comforting meal but also an explosion of vitamins and minerals. Let's venture together into the preparation of this recipe!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 80 minutes
Servings: 6

Necessary ingredients:
- 400-500 g beans (preferably white or red)
- 2 medium onions
- 2 carrots
- 2 peppers (preferably one bell pepper and one hot pepper for added flavor)
- ½ celery
- 2-3 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- ½ teaspoon of dried thyme
- 2-3 bay leaves
- 2-3 tablespoons of tarragon in vinegar
- Fresh or dried lovage, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Hot water (about 2 liters)

A bit of history
Bean soup is part of the culinary tradition of many cultures, symbolizing simple yet nourishing dishes. This oil-free recipe pays tribute to a healthy and balanced diet, demonstrating that you can prepare a delicious meal without added fats. Tarragon and lovage are aromatic herbs that add a distinct and fresh flavor, evoking memories of family meals.

Preparing the bean soup

Step 1: Preparing the beans
The first step is to choose the beans. Make sure there are no impurities or damaged beans. Rinse them well under cold running water. Then, soak the beans in cold water for a few hours or, ideally, overnight. This step not only reduces cooking time but also aids in easier digestion of the beans.

Step 2: Preparing the vegetables
After the beans have soaked, it's time to deal with the vegetables. Wash the onions, carrots, peppers, and celery well. Chop the onion finely, and cut the carrots and celery into small cubes, while slicing the peppers into strips. These cuts not only aid in even cooking but also contribute to a pleasant presentation of the soup.

Step 3: Cooking in the pressure cooker
To save time and achieve a delicious soup, I prefer to use a pressure cooker. Therefore, add all the chopped vegetables to the pot. Add the drained beans, tomato paste, paprika, thyme, bay leaves, and finally, salt and pepper to taste. Cover everything with hot water, leaving enough room for steam.

Step 4: The actual cooking
Close the pressure cooker lid and put it on high heat. Once it starts to whistle, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 50-60 minutes. The time may vary depending on the type of beans, so it's good to check from time to time. The beans should be soft but not completely mushy.

Step 5: Finishing the soup
After the beans are cooked, carefully open the pressure cooker lid. Add the tarragon in vinegar and chopped lovage. This will add a fresh aroma to your soup. Cook for another 5 minutes to combine the flavors. Adjust the taste with salt and pepper if necessary.

Serving
The bean soup with tarragon and lovage is served hot, with a slice of fresh bread or polenta on the side. You can add a spoonful of sour cream if you are not following a strict diet, to give it a creamy touch.

Serving suggestions and variations
To add extra flavor, you can sprinkle some dried hot pepper or a few drops of balsamic vinegar when serving. You can also try adding potatoes or zucchini to the vegetable mix for a different consistency.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use canned beans?
Yes, you can use canned beans to save time. Make sure to rinse them well before use.

2. How can I store the soup?
The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can freeze it, but it is recommended to consume it fresh to enjoy all the flavors.

3. What other recipes can I try with beans?
You can try bean salads, chili con carne, or bean veggie burgers.

Nutritional benefits
Bean soup is an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Beans help maintain digestive health and contribute to blood sugar control. In addition, tarragon and lovage have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Conclusion
Bean soup with tarragon and lovage is a perfect choice for those looking for a nourishing and comforting dish without adding oils or fats. It is easy to prepare, full of flavors, and can quickly become a favorite in your home. Don't hesitate to experiment with the ingredients and add a personal touch to your recipe! Enjoy your meal!