Bean soup

Bean soup - a classic, comforting recipe perfect for cool days. This delicious soup brings an authentic taste and unmistakable aroma, being not only nourishing but also full of history and tradition. Whether served at lunch or dinner, bean soup is a dish that brings family and friends together around the table.

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

Ingredients:

- 500 g beans
- 3 red onions
- 2 carrots
- ½ parsnip
- 1 bell pepper
- 2 celery slices
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 2 bay leaves
- A sprig of thyme
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- Fresh dill (for serving)
- 30 ml oil

Useful tips:

1. Choosing beans: Opt for high-quality beans, free of spots or damage. You can use white or red beans, depending on your preferences.
2. Soaking beans: Soaking the beans in hot water not only speeds up the cooking process but also improves their digestibility. It is recommended to soak them for at least 1-2 hours.
3. Baking soda: This helps soften the beans and reduces cooking time. Make sure to add it to the boiling water after it has been changed.
4. Vegetables: You can adapt the vegetables used according to the season or personal preferences. For example, the bell pepper can be replaced with zucchini or a green vegetable.

Step by step: Preparing bean soup

1. Soaking the beans: Place the beans in a large bowl and cover them with hot water. Let them sit for 1-2 hours. This step is essential for achieving a soup with tender and flavorful beans.

2. Initial boiling: After the beans have soaked, drain the water and place them in a large pot. Add fresh water, enough to cover the beans by about 5 cm. Add a teaspoon of baking soda and bring the water to a boil. This will help reduce cooking time and make the beans easier to digest.

3. Preparing the vegetables: While the beans are boiling, peel and chop the onion, carrots, parsnip, bell pepper, and celery. Make sure all the vegetables are cut into uniform cubes for even cooking.

4. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then add the carrots, parsnip, bell pepper, and celery. Continue to sauté the vegetables for another 5-7 minutes until they become slightly soft, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.

5. Combining the ingredients: When the beans have started to boil and have taken on a soft texture, drain the water from the pot and add the beans back into the pot along with fresh water, enough to cover the ingredients. Add salt, pepper, bay leaves, thyme, and the sautéed vegetables.

6. Boiling the soup: Let the soup simmer on low heat, covered, for about 30-40 minutes, or until the beans are fully cooked and tender. Check the consistency of the beans and vegetables from time to time.

7. Finishing the soup: Once the beans and vegetables are cooked, add the tomato paste and mix well. Let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes to allow the flavors to combine. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

8. Serving: Once the soup is ready, ladle it into deep bowls and sprinkle with freshly chopped dill. You can serve the bean soup with a slice of fresh bread or polenta for added flavor.

Possible variations:

- Bean soup with smoked meat: Add some pieces of smoked meat for a richer flavor. This can be a delicious option for those who prefer a more intense note.
- Bean soup with tomato puree: Instead of tomato paste, you can use fresh or canned crushed tomatoes for a more vibrant taste.

Nutritional benefits:

Bean soup is an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Beans are rich in iron, magnesium, and B vitamins, contributing to cardiovascular health and improving digestion. Additionally, it is low in calories, making it an ideal choice for a healthy meal.

Frequently asked questions:

- What else can I add to the soup? You can experiment with various vegetables, such as zucchini, broccoli, or even potatoes, to diversify the recipe.
- How can I preserve the bean soup? The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it in portions to have it on hand for days when you don't have time to cook.
- What drinks pair well with bean soup? A light beer or a dry white wine can perfectly complement the flavors of the soup. If you prefer non-alcoholic drinks, a herbal tea or a natural tomato juice are excellent options.

Cooking is an art, and bean soup is a masterpiece of this art! Each spoonful will bring you the warmth and comfort of a family meal. I encourage you to try this recipe and personalize your soup to your tastes. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: half a kg of beans, 3 red onions, 2 carrots, half a parsnip, one bell pepper, two slices of celery, salt, pepper, bay leaves, thyme, a teaspoon of baking soda, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, fresh dill, 30 ml of oil

 Tags:  bean soup