Dry bean soup

Bean soup with dried beans: A traditional recipe full of flavor and warmth

Bean soup is a beloved dish that evokes family meals, stories shared around the table, and the enticing aromas of fresh ingredients. This recipe is not just a simple soup, but an explosion of tastes and textures, perfect for any season. Additionally, bean soup is a nutritious choice, rich in protein and fiber, supporting a healthy diet. Let's discover together the necessary steps to prepare a delicious and comforting bean soup.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 2 hours
Number of servings: 6-8

Ingredients:
- 500 g dried beans
- 2 l water
- 300 ml bors (or to taste)
- 1 large carrot
- 1 green pepper (or red)
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley
- 3 slices of celery
- 2 medium onions
- 3-4 tablespoons sunflower oil
- 2 tomatoes (or homemade tomato paste)
- Noodles (or homemade pasta) - optional
- Dried thyme
- Fresh lovage
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation of bean soup:

1. Soaking the beans: In the evening, before preparing the soup, soak the beans in a large bowl of cold water. Let them sit for 8 to 10 hours so that the beans swell and become easier to cook. This step is essential as it helps reduce cooking time and improves the digestibility of the beans.

2. Boiling the beans: The next morning, drain the beans and rinse them well under cold running water. Place the beans in a pot with 2 liters of water and add a teaspoon of baking soda or sugar (this helps soften the beans). Bring the water to a boil, then discard this water and add fresh, hot water. This process helps remove certain substances that can cause digestive discomfort.

3. Start preparing the vegetables: While the beans are boiling, peel and chop the vegetables. Grate the carrot and celery, and chop the onion finely. The pepper can be diced or sliced, according to preference. These vegetables will add a fresh taste and pleasant texture to the soup.

4. Adding the vegetables: After about 15 minutes of boiling the beans, change the water again, then add the prepared vegetables (carrot, celery, onion, and pepper) and the oil. Let everything boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

5. Preparing the soup: When the beans are halfway cooked, add the tomatoes (diced if using fresh tomatoes) or the tomato paste. Let the soup boil for another 15-20 minutes or until the beans are fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.

6. Adding the bors: When the beans are well cooked, add the bors, which should be heated to boiling point. Adjust with salt and pepper, then add a few sprigs of thyme. Let the soup boil for another 5-7 minutes for the flavors to blend.

7. Garnishing the soup: Before serving, add the lovage and finely chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness. These herbs not only give the soup a pleasant appearance but also a special aroma.

Serving suggestions:
Bean soup is served hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. You can also drizzle a few drops of olive oil on top for an even more intense flavor. A delicious option is to serve it with noodles or homemade pasta, which will make this soup an even more satisfying meal.

Useful tips:
- If you want to add a slightly spicy note, you can include a finely chopped hot pepper during cooking.
- Use homemade tomato paste for a more intense and natural flavor.
- Bean soup keeps well in the fridge and becomes even tastier the next day when the flavors have had time to blend.

Nutritional benefits:
Bean soup is an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins, such as B vitamins and minerals like iron and magnesium. It is a healthy choice for vegetarians and vegans, as well as for those who want to enrich their diet with nutritious meals.

Frequently asked questions:
- How can I reduce the cooking time of the beans?
Soaking the beans the night before and using hot water for boiling can significantly reduce cooking time.

- What other vegetables can I add to the soup?
You can experiment with vegetables like zucchini, potatoes, or leeks to create a different version of the soup.

- Is it possible to freeze bean soup?
Yes, bean soup freezes very well. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing it in airtight containers.

Tarragon variant:
For a distinct flavor, you can add fresh tarragon at the end, before serving. This will provide a note of freshness and an unusual taste to the soup.

This dried bean soup is more than just a simple meal; it is a tradition, a story, and an explosion of flavors that will warm your soul. I invite you to prepare it and enjoy the moments spent with loved ones, enveloping the table in delicious aromas! Enjoy your meal!