Colored bean soup

Colorful Bean Soup - A vibrant delicacy, perfect for fasting days

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Colorful bean soup is a dish that combines the rich flavor of vegetables with the pleasant texture of beans, transforming into a delicious treat during fasting days. This recipe is not only simple and quick but also packed with vitamins, minerals, and plant-based proteins. Over time, soup has been a symbol of households, with each family having its own version, adapted to taste and available ingredients. Let's discover together how we can achieve a savory, colorful, and healthy soup!

Ingredients

- 1 yellow onion
- 2 carrots
- 1/2 parsnip
- 1/2 parsley root
- 1/2 celery
- 1/2 kohlrabi
- 1/2 bell pepper
- 1 can of red kidney beans
- 1 can of mixed white, red beans, and chickpeas
- 2-3 tablespoons of sunflower oil
- Iodized salt, to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 1-2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme (or fresh, if available)
- Approximately 500 ml of broth

Preparation Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the vegetables

Start by peeling and washing all the vegetables. The onion, carrots, parsley root, celery, kohlrabi, and bell pepper should be finely chopped. It may seem tedious, but this process is essential to release the flavors of the vegetables and achieve a delicious soup.

Step 2: Sautéing the vegetables

In a large pot, heat the sunflower oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the carrots, parsley root, celery, kohlrabi, and bell pepper. Stir well, cover the pot with a lid, and let the vegetables sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step will intensify the flavors and add extra taste to the soup.

Step 3: Adding the beans

After the vegetables have sautéed, add the two cans of beans. It’s important to drain them well beforehand to avoid a too salty taste. Mix everything together, then add water until all the ingredients are covered. Bring to a boil.

Step 4: Seasoning

Once the soup starts to boil, add salt, pepper, bay leaves, and thyme. These spices will give a pleasant and aromatic taste to the soup. Reduce the heat and let it simmer on low for 30 minutes. It’s recommended to check occasionally and stir to prevent the vegetables from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Step 5: Adding the broth

About 5 minutes before turning off the heat, add the broth. This will give the soup a beautiful color and rich flavor. Let it boil together with the other ingredients to combine the flavors.

Step 6: Serving

Colorful bean soup is served hot, alongside creamy polenta or fresh homemade bread. This combination will not only enrich the taste but will turn the meal into a true feast.

Chef's Tip

For an even healthier version, you can add other seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or squash. Also, for an extra flavor boost, try adding a few fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley before serving.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

This soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. A serving contains approximately 200-250 calories, depending on the amounts of oil and broth used. It is rich in plant-based proteins due to the beans, and the vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals. It is an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh beans, but you will need to boil them separately until soft before adding them to the soup.

2. How can I make the soup spicier?
You can add fresh chili peppers or chili flakes, depending on your preferences.

3. Can this recipe be frozen?
Yes, colorful bean soup can be frozen. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in airtight containers.

Possible Variations

For an explosion of flavors, you can try adding some exotic spices, such as cumin or turmeric, which will not only enhance the taste but also add vibrant color to the soup. Additionally, if you love spicy food, adding Sriracha sauce or jalapeño peppers can work wonders.

Conclusion

Colorful bean soup is more than just a simple meal; it is a celebration of taste and color, perfect for any occasion. With this recipe, you will not only bring a healthy dish to the table but also bring joy to your loved ones. So, embrace cooking and savor every spoonful! Enjoy your meal!