Bean soup
Bean soup is a traditional dish, full of flavor and memories, that envelops us with its comforting aroma. This simple yet delicious recipe is perfect for chilly days when we crave a hearty and nourishing meal. Bean soup is not only a delicacy but also a symbol of hospitality, often served at family meals or gatherings with friends.
In this recipe, I will guide you step by step, providing useful tips and information about each ingredient, so you can achieve a perfect bean soup. The total preparation time is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, and this recipe is enough for 4 generous servings.
Ingredients
- 250 g white beans
- 1 large potato
- 2 carrots
- 1 onion
- 1 green bell pepper
- 2 tomatoes
- 2-3 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- A pinch of pepper
- 1 tablespoon of Delikat (or other soup seasoning)
- 2 tablespoons of salt (or to taste)
- Bors (sour liquid) to taste (or alternatively, lemon juice)
- Fresh dill
- Fresh lovage
Preparation Time
- Soaking time for the beans: 8 hours (ideally soak the beans overnight)
- Actual cooking time: 1 hour
- Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Beans
- Start by rinsing the white beans well under cold running water. This removes impurities and any debris.
- Place the beans in a large pot, cover with water, and let them soak for about 8 hours (ideally overnight). This step is essential to reduce cooking time and make the beans more digestible.
2. Boiling the Beans
- After the beans have soaked, drain the water and rinse the beans again. Then, add fresh water and bring to a boil. Let it boil for 10-15 minutes, then drain the water again. This process helps remove substances that can cause digestive discomfort.
3. Preparing the Soup
- Add enough boiling water to cover the beans and put it on medium heat. Add the peeled potato, cut into quarters.
- When the beans are almost cooked (about 30-40 minutes), add the peeled and sliced carrots, finely chopped onion, and diced green pepper.
4. Adding Tomatoes and Seasonings
- Once all the vegetables are cooked and the beans are well done, add the diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Mix well and let it simmer for another 15 minutes.
- Finally, add thyme, pepper, Delikat, salt, and bors to taste. Let it boil a few times to blend the flavors.
5. Finalizing the Dish
- Once the soup is ready, turn off the heat and add the chopped greens (dill and lovage), which will add a touch of freshness and flavor.
Serving
Bean soup is served hot, ideally alongside a slice of fresh bread or soft polenta. You can add a spoonful of sour cream for a creamier taste. This recipe is perfect for enjoying with friends, at a festive meal, or simply on chilly days.
Practical Tips
- Vegan Option: If you want a healthier version, you can omit the sour cream and use olive oil instead of butter.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices. Adding sweet paprika or chili can give a spicy note.
- Beans: You can also use other types of beans, but make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Health: Bean soup is rich in protein and fiber, making it an excellent choice for a healthy diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why should I soak the beans?
- Soaking the beans helps reduce cooking time and eliminates substances that can cause gastric discomfort.
2. Can I use canned beans?
- Yes, but you will need to reduce the cooking time since canned beans are already cooked. Add them towards the end of the cooking process.
3. What can I do with leftovers?
- Bean soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for later consumption.
Delicious Combinations
Bean soup pairs excellently with a fresh cabbage salad or a pickle salad. Additionally, a cold beer or a dry white wine could further enhance the flavors of the soup.
Personal Note
This bean soup recipe was passed down to me by my grandmother, who lovingly prepared it for the whole family. I wanted to keep it alive because it is not just a recipe, but also a memory filled with warmth and love. I encourage you to add your variations and make it part of your family culinary traditions.
I hope you enjoy every bite of this delicious and comforting bean soup!
Ingredients: 250 g white beans, 1 potato, 2 carrots, 1 onion, 1 green bell pepper, 2 tomatoes, 2-3 tablespoons tomato paste, thyme, pepper, salt, delicat, delicate bors, dill, lovage
