Bean soup with thyme
Bean soup with thyme – a delicious and comforting recipe
Bean soup is a traditional dish in many cultures, symbolizing not just food, but also the moments spent around the table with loved ones. Today, I invite you to discover a special version of this recipe, enriched with the unmistakable flavors of thyme. This soup is not only hearty and full of flavor, but it is also an excellent nutritional choice, being rich in plant proteins and fiber, ideal for a healthy diet.
Total preparation time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 300 g dried white beans
- 2 medium onions
- 4 liters of water
- 2 carrots
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 bunch of fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 2 slices of celery
- 2 garlic cloves
Preparation:
Step 1: Start by preparing the beans. It is important to soak the beans overnight. This step will not only reduce the cooking time but will also make the beans easier to digest, preventing any abdominal discomfort. So, place the beans in a bowl with cold water and let them hydrate.
Step 2: The next day, rinse the beans and transfer them to a large pot. Add 4 liters of water and bring to a boil. Let the beans boil for 20-30 minutes. The foam that forms on the surface can be removed with a skimmer, resulting in a clearer soup.
Step 3: Meanwhile, prepare the vegetables. Chop the onion into cubes, slice the carrots, and cut the celery into small pieces. These vegetables will add flavor and texture to the soup.
Step 4: After the beans have boiled for 30 minutes, add the chopped vegetables. Let the soup simmer over medium heat, covered, until the beans become soft and can be crushed with a finger (about 30-40 minutes).
Step 5: Once the beans are well cooked, it's time to add salt, pepper, crushed garlic, and the tablespoon of tomato paste. These ingredients will enhance the flavors and provide a rich taste to the soup. Let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes.
Step 6: Finally, add the chopped fresh thyme (or dried thyme) and stir. Let the soup sit for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
Serving: Bean soup with thyme is delicious served hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or, for an extra touch of freshness, sprinkled with chopped green onions. This combination adds a pleasant contrast between the intense flavors of the soup and the fresh, crunchy note of the onions.
Useful tips:
1. If you want to incorporate other vegetables, bell peppers or zucchini are excellent options.
2. Vary the flavors by adding spices like paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy note.
3. The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days, and the taste becomes even more intense as it sits.
Nutritional benefits:
Bean soup is rich in plant proteins, fiber, and vitamins, making it ideal for vegans and vegetarians. White beans are an excellent source of iron, folate, and antioxidants, all essential for a balanced diet.
Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned beans? While it is possible, dried beans offer a more authentic texture and taste. If using canned beans, skip the soaking and boiling steps and add them at the end.
- How can I make the soup spicier? Add a chopped hot pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper during preparation.
- What other spices can I use? Besides thyme, oregano or marjoram are excellent choices to diversify the flavors.
This bean soup recipe with thyme is not just a hearty dish, but also a culinary experience that brings joy and comfort. So, let's enjoy every spoonful and share this delicious soup with our loved ones! Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 300g white dried beans, 2 onions, 4 liters of water, 2 carrots, 1 tablespoon of broth, salt, pepper, thyme, 2 slices of celery, 2 cloves of garlic
