Dried bean soup with tarragon

Dried Bean Soup with Tarragon: A Classic, Comforting, and Flavorful Recipe

Dried bean soup with tarragon is a traditional dish loved by everyone, evoking memories of warm and joyful family meals. This soup is not only nourishing but also a wonderful choice for chilly days, offering a rich taste and unmistakable aroma. I invite you to discover step by step how to prepare this nutrient-rich delicacy!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:
- 250 g dried beans
- 2 carrots
- 1 parsley root
- 1 onion (keep it whole to remove later)
- 1/2 celery root
- 1/2 kohlrabi
- 2 ripe tomatoes
- 1 bunch of tarragon
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons of oil

Step-by-step preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the beans
Start by rinsing the dried beans thoroughly under cold running water. Make sure to remove any impurities. Soaking the beans is essential to reduce their cooking time and achieve a pleasant texture. Therefore, let the beans soak in cold water, preferably overnight, for at least 8 hours. The next morning, drain the water used for soaking.

Step 2: Preparing the vegetables
Peel and chop the other vegetables. The carrots should be diced or sliced, while the parsley root, celery, and kohlrabi can be cut into small cubes. Keep the onion whole since we want to remove it later. This will add flavor, but we don’t want it in the soup.

Step 3: Sautéing the vegetables
In a deep pot, heat the 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the carrots and sauté for a few minutes until they become slightly soft and golden. This step is important to enhance the flavors of the soup.

Step 4: Adding the vegetables and beans
Once the carrots are ready, add the remaining chopped vegetables (parsley root, celery, kohlrabi). Mix well and let them sauté for another 2-3 minutes. Then, add the drained beans, diced tomatoes, and enough water to cover all the ingredients. About 2 liters of water should be sufficient.

Step 5: Cooking the soup
Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for about 45-60 minutes, or until the beans are tender. Check occasionally and add hot water if necessary.

Step 6: Finishing the soup
When the beans are ready, remove the onion from the soup. Sprinkle the freshly chopped tarragon and dill on top. If you prefer a tangier soup, add some juice from pickled hot peppers for an interesting note of acidity.

Step 7: Serving
Serve the bean soup hot, accompanied by a slice of fresh bread or polenta for a truly comforting meal. The bean soup is also wonderful the next day when the flavors have melded completely.

Practical tips:
- Dried beans can be replaced with canned beans, but the cooking time will be significantly reduced. In this case, add the beans at the end to prevent them from breaking apart.
- If you want a spicy version, add fresh hot peppers during cooking.
- Tarragon can be replaced with other herbs like lovage or basil for a different flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
Dried bean soup is rich in plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. Beans contain antioxidants and help maintain digestive health. Additionally, it is low in calories, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned beans?
Yes, but make sure to rinse them well before use and add them towards the end of cooking.
2. What is the best way to store leftover soup?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for later use.
3. Is it necessary to add tarragon?
Tarragon adds a distinct flavor, but if you don’t have it on hand, you can omit it or replace it with other herbs.

For a complete experience, try enjoying this soup with a refreshing drink, such as fresh fruit compote or herbal tea. Dried bean soup with tarragon is not just a nourishing dish but also a journey into the heart of culinary traditions, a true homage to authentic flavors. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 250 g dried beans, 2 carrots, 1 parsley root, 1 onion, 1/2 celery, 1/2 kohlrabi, 2 ripe tomatoes, thyme, dill, green parsley, salt, pepper, 2 tablespoons of oil