There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of Hearty Fifteen Bean Soup to chase away the chill. Packed with fiber and flavor, this easy recipe is perfect for anyone, whether you’re an expert cook or just starting out. I’ll walk you through simple steps, tips, and even variations to make it your own. Get ready to savor a comforting dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Hearty and Filling: This soup is packed with protein and fiber from the fifteen bean mix, making it a satisfying meal that keeps you full for hours.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the vegetables and spices according to your preference or what you have on hand, making it a flexible recipe.
- Healthy Comfort Food: This soup is not only comforting but also loaded with vitamins and nutrients, making it a healthy choice for any day of the week.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep, this recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a delicious homemade meal without too much fuss.
Ingredients
Complete List of Ingredients
To make Hearty Fifteen Bean Soup, gather these items:
- 1 cup fifteen bean mix (soaked overnight)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Ingredients for 6-8 Servings
This recipe serves 6 to 8 people. You can easily adjust the amounts if you need more or less soup. The fifteen bean mix serves as a great source of protein and fiber. Each bowl is hearty and filling.
Substitutions and Alternatives
You can swap some ingredients for others if needed. Here are a few ideas:
- Use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth for added flavor.
- Try different beans like black beans or kidney beans if you can't find a fifteen bean mix.
- Add in sweet potatoes for a twist on the flavor.
- Use fresh herbs instead of dried ones for a more vibrant taste.
- If you want a kick, use jalapeños instead of red pepper flakes.
Feel free to mix and match based on what you have at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Fresh Prepping of Beans
Start by rinsing the soaked fifteen bean mix in cold water. This helps remove dirt and any debris. Drain the beans and set them aside. Soaking overnight makes them soft and easy to cook.
Sautéing the Vegetables
Next, heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes. The vegetables should soften and smell great.
Adding Garlic and Spices
Now, stir in two cloves of minced garlic and the spices. Add one teaspoon each of smoked paprika, dried thyme, and cumin. If you like a kick, add half a teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes. This step fills your kitchen with lovely scents.
Combining All Ingredients
It's time to bring it all together! Add your soaked beans, six cups of vegetable broth, and one can of diced tomatoes with juice. Stir well to mix everything. This is where the magic really starts to happen.
Simmering the Soup
Bring your mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally and check the beans. They should be tender and delicious. If the soup gets too thick, add more broth or water.
Final Seasoning and Serving Suggestions
Once your beans are tender, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls. For a nice touch, garnish with fresh parsley. You can also serve it with crusty bread or over cooked quinoa for added heartiness. Enjoy your warm and filling soup!
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Cooking Beans
When cooking beans, start with good soaking. Soaking the fifteen bean mix overnight is key. This helps them cook faster and makes them easier to digest. Rinse the beans before using them. This removes any dust or dirt. Always add beans to boiling water or broth for best results. Keep an eye on the cooking time, as it can vary. Tender beans are your goal, so test them often.
How to Enhance Flavor
To boost flavor, use fresh herbs and spices. Smoked paprika adds a warm, smoky taste. Dried thyme and cumin bring earthiness. Adjust the red pepper flakes for heat. You can add a splash of vinegar at the end for brightness. Consider sautéing your veggies until they’re soft to deepen their flavor. Don’t forget to taste as you go. This helps you find the right balance of flavors in your soup.
Recommended Cooking Equipment
A large pot is essential for this recipe. A heavy-bottomed pot distributes heat evenly. This helps prevent burning. A wooden spoon is perfect for stirring the soup. You might also want a ladle for serving. Keep measuring cups handy for accuracy. A good knife and cutting board make chopping easy. Finally, a lid is important for simmering. It helps retain heat and moisture while cooking.
Pro Tips
- Soak the Beans Properly: Make sure to soak the fifteen bean mix overnight for optimal tenderness and to reduce cooking time.
- Use Homemade Broth: For a richer flavor, consider using homemade vegetable broth instead of store-bought.
- Add Extra Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
- Store Leftovers Properly: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Variations
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
You can easily make this soup vegan. Just stick to the plant-based ingredients. The fifteen bean mix provides protein and fiber. Using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth keeps it meat-free. You can also add more veggies like spinach or kale for extra nutrients. They blend well and add color.
Spicy Versions of Hearty Fifteen Bean Soup
If you enjoy heat, add more spices! Increase the red pepper flakes for a bolder kick. You can also mix in diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers. These add depth and a smoky flavor. Adjust the spice to your taste. Remember to add slowly so it doesn’t become too hot.
Adding Protein: Meat or Meat Alternatives
Want to add meat? Ground beef or turkey works well. Brown the meat before adding it to the soup. Sausage is also great for a hearty twist. If you prefer plant-based protein, try adding lentils or tofu. Both options soak up flavors and make the soup filling. Adjust the cooking time if you add meat, so it cooks through properly.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To store your Hearty Fifteen Bean Soup, let it cool first. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. This keeps the soup fresh. Place the container in the fridge. Your soup will last up to four days. Make sure to label it with the date.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to keep the soup longer, freezing is a great option. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top, as it will expand. Seal the containers tightly. Your soup will freeze well for up to three months. When you're ready, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, you can use the stove or microwave. If using the stove, pour the soup into a pot. Heat over medium until it’s hot, stirring often. For the microwave, place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between. Always check that it’s heated all the way through before serving. Enjoy your warm, comforting soup!
FAQs
How to make Hearty Fifteen Bean Soup from scratch?
To make Hearty Fifteen Bean Soup from scratch, start by rinsing soaked beans. Heat olive oil in a pot, then add diced onion, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté these for about 5-7 minutes. Next, stir in minced garlic and spices like smoked paprika and cumin. Add the soaked beans, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring it all to a boil, then simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours. Season with salt and pepper, serve, and enjoy!
What is the best way to soak the beans?
Soaking beans is simple. Place the fifteen bean mix in a large bowl and cover them with water. Make sure the water is about two inches above the beans. Let them soak overnight. This softens the beans and reduces cooking time. If you're short on time, you can use the quick soak method. Boil the beans for two minutes, then let them sit for one hour before draining.
Can I use other types of beans?
Yes, you can use other types of beans. If you prefer, black beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans work well. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary. Each type of bean has its own texture and flavor. Mixing different beans can also add variety to your soup.
How long does the soup last in the fridge?
Hearty Fifteen Bean Soup lasts about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container for best results. Make sure to let it cool before sealing. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Can I add additional vegetables or ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or corn for more flavor. You can also include cooked sausage or bacon for a meaty twist. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed. Adding fresh herbs, like cilantro or basil, right before serving can also brighten up the dish.
This blog post covered how to make Hearty Fifteen Bean Soup. I shared a complete list of ingredients and tips for easy cooking. You learned fresh prepping, sautéing, and simmering steps. I detailed flavor enhancements and various options, like vegetarian and spicy versions. Finally, I explained how to store and reheat leftovers.
Now, get ready to enjoy a warm bowl! This soup is not just filling; it's fun to make. You can try your own twists. Dive in and create your own flavors!
