Dried bean soup

Dried Bean Soup – A Healthy and Comforting Delicacy

Dried bean soup is a classic dish, lovingly prepared in many kitchens around the world. This soup is not only nourishing but also full of flavors and textures that remind us of the bountiful meals of childhood. In this recipe, we will explore each step of the preparation process, so that we can achieve a delicious, aromatic, and comforting soup.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 300 g dried beans (preferably white or red)
- 1 large onion
- A bunch of green onions
- 1 bell pepper
- 2 carrots
- 1 celery (3 slices)
- 1 large tomato
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, pepper, thyme (to taste)
- A handful of fresh parsley

Step by Step

1. Choosing and preparing the beans
Start by choosing the dried beans. Make sure the beans are whole, without signs of damage or mold. After selecting the beans, wash them well under cold running water. This step is essential to remove impurities and any dust. Then, let them soak in cold water for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight. This process not only helps rehydrate the beans but also reduces cooking time.

2. Blanching the beans
After the beans have soaked, drain the water and rinse them again. Place the beans in a pot with fresh water and bring to a boil. This is the stage where the beans are blanched. Change the water two or three times to remove certain substances that may cause digestive discomfort. This step is important for achieving an easily digestible soup.

3. Preparing the vegetables
While the beans are blanching, you can prepare the vegetables. Chop the large onion into small cubes, and finely chop the green onions. Peel the carrots and slice them into rounds or small cubes, and cut the celery into thin slices. The bell pepper should also be diced, and the tomato sliced thinly.

4. Cooking the soup
Once the beans are blanched, place them in a large pot, add the chopped vegetables (onion, bell pepper, carrots, and celery), two to three tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Then, add enough water to cover all the ingredients. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1 hour. If you use a pressure cooker, the time will be considerably reduced.

5. Finalizing the soup
When the beans are well cooked and the vegetables are soft, add the sliced tomato. You can also add a teaspoon of thyme for extra flavor. Let the soup simmer for another 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Finally, add the finely chopped parsley for a fresh taste.

Serving and Variations

Dried bean soup is served hot and can be accompanied by a slice of fresh bread or crispy croutons. You can add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or sour cream for extra creaminess. This soup pairs perfectly with a crunchy green salad or a tomato and cucumber salad, which adds a contrast of freshness.

Possible variations:
- You can add other vegetables, such as zucchini or potatoes, to make the soup even more nourishing.
- If you want a spicy soup, add a little chili pepper or paprika.
- Instead of parsley, you can use dill or coriander to change the flavors.

Nutritional Benefits

Dried bean soup is an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins. Beans are rich in iron, magnesium, and B vitamins, having a positive impact on heart health and digestion. It is a filling dish that is low in calories, making it an ideal choice for those who want to maintain a balanced diet.

Practical Tips

- Beans: Make sure the beans are fresh. Older beans may require a longer cooking time.
- Taste: You can adjust the seasonings to your liking, adding other herbs, such as basil or oregano.
- Reheating: The soup keeps well in the refrigerator and can be reheated the next day. In fact, the flavor gets even better as the ingredients combine.
- Freezing: If you have leftover soup, you can freeze it in portions for days when you don’t have time to cook.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned beans for this recipe?
Yes, you can use canned beans, but it is recommended to reduce the cooking time and add the beans near the end of the soup preparation.

2. What other vegetables can I add to the soup?
You can experiment with vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or peas, depending on your preferences.

3. Is the soup vegan?
Yes, this soup is completely vegan. You can add olive oil instead of butter to keep the recipe vegan.

4. How can I make the soup thicker?
You can puree part of the soup with an immersion blender to achieve a creamy texture without adding cream or milk.

In conclusion, dried bean soup is an excellent choice for a healthy and comforting meal. With each bite, you will not only taste the rich flavors of the vegetables and beans but also the warmth of memories around the table. Dare to experiment with different ingredients and spices, finding the perfect combination for your taste buds. Enjoy your meal!