Sweet bean soup

Sweet Bean Soup – A Delight of Flavors and Health

I invite you to discover a delicious and comforting recipe for sweet bean soup, perfect for chilly days or moments when you need a hearty and nutritious meal. This soup is not only nourishing but also full of flavor, quickly becoming your family's favorite.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 55-55 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

The history of bean soup is old and rich, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. Beans, an accessible and nutritious ingredient, have become a staple food, and bean soups have adapted over time, with each region having its own version. This recipe, with a hint of sweetness and a velvety texture, is perfect for savoring with loved ones.

Ingredients:

- 100 g celery (about half a medium celery)
- 2 medium carrots
- 2 large onions
- 1 red or green bell pepper
- 1 can of 800 g cooked dry beans (or dry beans that you can cook at home)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Thyme, for flavor
- 2 bay leaves
- Dried lovage (preferably homemade)
- 1 heaping tablespoon of tomato paste
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil or sunflower oil

Preparation:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by peeling and washing all the vegetables. Cut the celery, carrots, onions, and bell pepper into medium cubes to cook evenly. You can use a sharp knife to ensure precise cuts.

2. Boiling the vegetables: In a 4-liter pot, add water halfway. Place the pot on the heat and wait until the water begins to boil. When the water is boiling, add the chopped vegetables. Cover the pot with a lid and let the vegetables boil for 15-20 minutes, until they become soft but not fully cooked.

3. Preparing the beans: If using canned beans, open the can, drain the beans, and rinse them well with cold water to remove the taste of preservatives. If you prefer dry beans, make sure you have cooked them beforehand according to the instructions on the package.

4. Combining the ingredients: Once the vegetables are cooked, add the beans and diluted tomato paste with a little water to the pot. Mix the ingredients well to ensure everything is evenly distributed. If you notice that the liquid has reduced too much, add water until you reach the desired consistency.

5. Seasoning: Add salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaves to the soup. These seasonings will enhance the flavors and create a pleasant taste. Stir again and let the soup simmer on low heat for another 10-15 minutes, allowing all the flavors to blend.

6. Finishing the soup: Finally, before turning off the heat, add the dried lovage. This will add a fresh and aromatic note to your soup. Once everything is ready, remove the bay leaves and let the soup cool slightly.

7. Serving: The sweet bean soup is served warm, with a slice of fresh bread on the side or with crunchy croutons for added texture. You can garnish it with a bit of fresh lovage for a more appealing look.

Practical tips:

- Vegan option: This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can make it vegan by ensuring you use broth without animal ingredients.
- Add vegetables: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as zucchini or potatoes, to add more variety and nutrients.
- Storage: The soup keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it, but it’s best consumed fresh to enjoy its flavors.
- Frequently asked questions: Why use canned beans instead of dry beans? Canned beans save time and are already cooked, but if you prefer to control the cooking process, choose dry beans.

Nutrition:

The sweet bean soup is rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients such as iron and B vitamins. It is an excellent choice for those looking to improve their diet, supporting digestive health and maintaining a healthy weight.

Delicious combinations:

This soup pairs perfectly with a cabbage salad or a raw vegetable salad. You can also accompany it with a glass of white wine or fresh lemonade to complete the meal.

In short, sweet bean soup is not just a meal but a cooking experience full of stories and tradition. By preparing it, you not only enjoy a delicious dish but also the moment of connecting with your loved ones around the table. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 100 g celery, 2 medium carrots, 2 large onions, 1 bell pepper, 1 can (0.800 kg) of already cooked dried beans, salt, pepper, thyme, 2 bay leaves, dried lovage (prepared by mom), 1 tablespoon heaped with tomato paste, 2-3 tablespoons of oil.

 Tags:  soup dried beans