Bean soup with nettles

Bean soup with nettles - the recipe that will remind you of childhood

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Bean soup with nettles is a traditional recipe that combines flavor and health. This soup is not just a delicious dish, but also a precious memory from childhood when our mother spoiled us with fresh aromas and ingredients. Let's go back to those moments and prepare this comforting soup together!

Ingredients
- 250 g white beans (preferably soaked overnight)
- 2 handfuls of fresh nettles, well washed
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 zucchini, diced
- 2 carrots, grated on a large grater
- 1 can (400 g) of canned tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 parsnip, diced
- 1/4 small celery, diced
- Sour borscht (to taste)
- 100 g noodles
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt, to taste
- 2 tablespoons sunflower oil or olive oil

A bit of history
Bean soup is a dish that often appears in traditional cuisine, having deep roots in culinary history. This recipe has long been a symbol of staple food due to its accessible and easy-to-find ingredients. Nettles, on the other hand, are a spring delicacy, rich in nutrients and vitamins, adding a unique taste and fresh aroma.

Step by step - Preparation guide

1. Preparing the beans
Start by washing the beans in several waters, then let them soak in cold water overnight. This step is essential to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility. The next day, drain the beans and boil them in a pot of water. When the water starts to boil, change the water three times. This will eliminate substances that can cause gastric discomfort.

2. Sauté the vegetables
In a large skillet, add the oil and sauté the finely chopped onion until it becomes translucent. Add the 3 tablespoons of water to help it soften. After about 5 minutes, add the tomato paste and canned tomatoes, mixing well. Let it simmer on low heat for 5 minutes for the flavors to combine.

3. Add the vegetables
Once the onion is ready, add the mixture to the pot with the boiled beans. Add the celery, parsnip, zucchini, and grated carrots. These vegetables not only add nutrients but also a pleasant texture to the soup. Let everything boil together for about 20-25 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

4. Finalizing the soup
In a kettle, bring the borscht to a boil, then add it to the pot with the soup. This step will ensure that the borscht does not lower the soup's temperature. Let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes. Add the noodles, nettles, and season with salt, thyme, and chopped parsley. The noodles will cook quickly, so do not leave the soup on the heat for more than 5-7 minutes after adding them.

5. Serving and suggestions
Once the soup is ready, turn off the heat and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to develop. Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped green onions and a slice of lemon for a touch of freshness. If you want to make it an even heartier dish, you can add some toasted bread croutons.

Useful tips
- You can also use other seasonal vegetables, such as bell peppers or potatoes, to vary the recipe.
- If you don't have nettles, you can substitute with fresh spinach or parsley leaves.
- Bean soup with nettles pairs wonderfully with a slice of homemade bread or a fresh green salad.
- If you like the soup more sour, you can add more borscht or the juice of a lemon.

Nutritional information
A serving of bean soup with nettles has approximately 150 calories, making it a healthy option rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Beans are an excellent source of fiber, which helps maintain digestive health, while nettles are rich in vitamin C and iron.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use canned beans?
It is recommended to use dried beans, but if you are short on time, you can opt for canned beans. Make sure to rinse them well to remove excess sodium.

2. How can I make the soup spicier?
You can add a little fresh chili pepper or chili flakes during the sautéing of the onion.

3. How long does the soup keep?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

I invite you to try this bean soup with nettles and enjoy its comforting aroma! Remember that every spoonful comes with a story, so I wish you to savor it just as we did, with a smile on your face and dear memories in your heart!

 Ingredients: 250 g white beans, 2 handfuls of well-washed nettles (in plenty of water), 1 large onion, 1/2 zucchini, 2 carrots, 1 can of canned tomatoes, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, 1 parsley root, 1/4 small celery, sour borscht, noodles, parsley, thyme

 Tags:  bean soup with nettles