Bean soup

Bean soup - a comforting fasting delight

Bean soup is more than just a simple dish; it is a tradition, a symbol of family meals, and a way to warm our souls on chilly winter days. This dish combines simple yet flavorful ingredients to create a hearty and nourishing soup. Additionally, beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making it a perfect choice for those following a fasting diet.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 2 hours
Servings: 4-6

Your basic ingredients

- 250 g dried beans (approximately 1/4 kg)
- 2-3 carrots
- 1 onion
- 1 bell pepper (or sweet pepper)
- 2-3 tomatoes
- 1 bunch of greens (parsley, tarragon)
- salt
- pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or sunflower oil)
- 1 cup borscht (or lemon juice if you don't have borscht)

Preparing the bean soup

1. Preparing the beans: Start by washing the dried beans thoroughly under cold running water. This step is essential to remove impurities and any unwanted substances. After washing the beans, soak them in cold water for 24 hours. This will reduce cooking time and aid digestion.

2. Boiling the beans: Once the beans have soaked, drain them and place them in a large pot. Add fresh water, about 1-2 liters, and bring to a boil. Initially, you will need to remove the foam that forms on the surface. This is normal and helps achieve a clearer and tastier soup.

3. Preparing the vegetables: While the beans are boiling, you can prepare the vegetables. Chop the onion finely, slice the carrots into rounds or cubes, and cut the bell pepper into strips. The tomatoes can be diced or, if you prefer, you can use canned tomatoes for a more intense flavor.

4. Adding the vegetables: When the beans are nearly cooked (about 1 hour), add the onion and carrots to the pot. These vegetables will give a sweet and aromatic flavor to the soup. Near the end of cooking, about 10-15 minutes before turning off the heat, add the bell pepper and tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Finishing the soup: After the vegetables and beans are cooked, pour the borscht into the pot and let it simmer for a few more minutes. The borscht will give the soup a pleasant acidity, but if you don't have borscht, you can use lemon juice.

6. Serving: Finally, add two tablespoons of olive oil for a richer taste and a nicer presentation. Chop the greens (parsley and tarragon) finely and sprinkle them on top of the soup before serving. Enjoy your meal!

Useful tips for a perfect bean soup

- Making borscht: If you don't have borscht on hand, you can use vinegar or lemon juice. These will add acidity to the soup, but remember to adjust the amount according to your taste preferences.
- Soup consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the beans after they are cooked to achieve a creamy texture.
- Adding tarragon: Tarragon adds a special flavor to the soup. You can add it at the end, but also use it to marinate the beans before cooking.
- Variations: Although this recipe is traditional, you can also add other vegetables, such as celery or zucchini, to diversify the flavor.

Combining bean soup with other dishes

Bean soup pairs perfectly with a slice of freshly baked bread to soak up the delicious broth. Additionally, a cabbage salad or a carrot salad with mayonnaise can complement the meal. For a more rustic touch, serving it alongside a shot of natural plum brandy can add a dash of authenticity to the culinary experience.

Nutritional benefits

Beans are a rich source of plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins (A, C, K), and minerals (iron, magnesium, potassium). They are low in fat, making them ideal for a healthy diet. Consuming beans can help maintain digestive health and control blood sugar levels.

Frequently asked questions

- How long can I store bean soup? Bean soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be frozen for later consumption.
- Can I use canned beans? Yes, you can use canned beans, but the cooking time will be much shorter since the beans are already cooked. Add them toward the end of the preparation.
- How can I make the soup spicier? If you like spicy food, you can add hot peppers or spices like cumin or paprika.

Bean soup is undoubtedly a dish that brings people together, a meal that combines flavors and traditions, and each spoonful will remind you of the warm and loving meals of your childhood. So, don't hesitate any longer, gather your ingredients, and prepare this delicacy for your loved ones!

 Ingredients: 1/4 kg beans, 2-3 carrots, 1 onion, 1 bell pepper, 2-3 tomatoes, 1 bunch of greens (parsley, tarragon), salt, pepper, 2 tablespoons oil, 1 cup borscht.

 Tags:  bean soup fasting recipes