Red bean soup

Red bean soup with vegetables - A warm and comforting recipe

When you think of a dish that brings comfort and warmth, red bean soup is definitely one of the most suitable choices. This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, based on simple and accessible ingredients. Red bean soup is a perfect choice for chilly days, bringing an explosion of flavors and aromas to your plate.

Total Time: 50 minutes
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 1 jar of red beans (400 g) (or home-cooked beans, if you prefer)
- 1 large onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 cup frozen vegetables (a mix of carrots, peas, and green beans is ideal)
- 4 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons of oil (olive or sunflower)
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Water, as needed to cover the ingredients
- Fresh chopped lovage or parsley, for serving

Preparation:

1. Boiling the vegetables: Start by putting water in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced carrot and the frozen vegetables. Let it boil for about 15-20 minutes, until the vegetables become tender. This step is essential, as fresh and frozen vegetables provide a flavorful base for the soup.

2. Adding the beans: Once the vegetables are cooked, add the jar of red beans (don’t forget to rinse the beans under cold water before adding them, to remove excess salt and preservatives). Let it simmer together on low heat for 10 minutes, so the flavors can meld.

3. Preparing the sauce: Meanwhile, finely chop the onion and sauté it in a pan with heated oil. Sautéing the onion is an important step that adds depth to the soup's flavor. When the onion turns golden, add the sweet paprika, salt, and pepper, mixing well. A few moments of sautéing will intensify the paprika's aroma.

4. Adding the tomato paste: After a minute, add the tomato paste to the pan. Mix everything together and let it simmer for a minute. This cooking time will help develop the flavors of the paste.

5. Finishing the soup: Pour the onion and tomato mixture over the beans and cooked vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste and let it simmer for a few moments to blend the flavors. The soup is ready when all the ingredients are well combined and the flavors have intensified.

6. Serving: Finally, sprinkle fresh chopped lovage or parsley over the soup before serving. This will add a touch of freshness and a splash of color.

Practical Tips:

- Beans: If you are using dried beans, make sure to soak them overnight and boil them separately before adding them to the soup.
- Vegetables: You can also experiment with other vegetables, such as celery or bell peppers.
- Flavor variations: For an extra kick, you can add a bit of chopped hot pepper or a bay leaf. This will bring an interesting depth of flavors.
- Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend some of the beans and vegetables with an immersion blender.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:

This red bean soup is a healthy choice, rich in plant-based proteins, fiber, and vitamins. A serving has approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the exact amount of oil and tomato paste used. Red beans are an excellent source of antioxidants, contributing to heart health and maintaining blood sugar levels.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- What can I use instead of tomato paste? You can replace the tomato paste with fresh chopped tomatoes or tomato juice, but the cooking time will be different.
- How long does the soup keep? Red bean soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It’s delicious even when reheated!
- Can I freeze it? Yes, the soup can be frozen. Make sure to let it cool before placing it in containers for freezing.

Serving Suggestions:

This red bean soup is wonderful served with a slice of fresh bread or crispy croutons. Also, a drizzle of sour cream on top will add a creamy and delicious touch. You can accompany the soup with a fresh green salad for a complete and balanced meal.

Conclusion:

Red bean soup with vegetables is a simple yet flavorful dish that will warm your soul and fill you with energy. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the ingredients and personalize your recipe. Enjoy!