Bean soup

Bean soup with vegetables and noodles - A delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Bean soup is a classic dish, full of flavor, that reminds us of warm and comforting meals from childhood. It is an easy recipe that combines the nutritional richness of beans with the flavors of fresh vegetables. Perfect for chilly days, this soup can be served for lunch or dinner, alongside a slice of fresh bread.

Ingredients

- 350 g dried white beans
- 100 g noodles
- 1 medium onion
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for a pop of color)
- 1 sweet pepper
- 1 carrot
- 3 tablespoons of tomato paste or puree
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- A few sprigs of fresh lovage
- 1 liter of borscht (or to taste)
- Salt, to taste
- Warm water (for boiling)

A Brief History

This bean soup recipe has deep roots in culinary tradition, being a popular dish in many cultures. Beans are valued not only for their flavor but also for their rich content of proteins and essential nutrients. Over time, each family has adapted their own recipe, adding various vegetables or spices, transforming it into a true gastronomic feast.

Step by Step to a Perfect Soup

1. Preparing the beans
The night before cooking, soak the beans in cold water. This step is essential as it helps the beans cook faster, reducing the cooking time. Make sure there is enough water to cover the beans, considering they will absorb some.

2. Boiling the beans
On the morning of cooking, drain the beans and rinse them well. Place them in a large pot, add warm water, and let them boil over medium heat. Change the water 2-3 times during boiling, using warm water to avoid thermal shock. This process helps eliminate gases that can cause digestive discomfort.

3. Preparing the vegetables
While the beans are boiling, chop the onion, bell pepper, sweet pepper, and carrot into small cubes. This is a perfect opportunity to add your favorite vegetables. You can experiment with zucchini, celery, or even potatoes to vary the recipe.

4. Sautéing the vegetables
In a pan, heat a little oil and add the onion. Sauté until it becomes translucent, then add the tomato paste or puree. Mix well and let it simmer for a few minutes to release its flavors.

5. Adding the vegetables to the pot
Once the beans are almost cooked (after about 45 minutes), add the sautéed vegetables to the pot. Mix well and let it boil together for another 15 minutes.

6. Noodles and spices
When the beans and vegetables are nearly cooked, add the noodles. They will absorb some of the soup's juice, providing a pleasant texture. After 5-7 minutes, when the noodles are ready, add the borscht, dried thyme, and salt to taste. Let the soup boil for another 10 minutes for the flavors to meld.

7. Finishing the soup
Turn off the heat and add the chopped fresh parsley and lovage. These aromatic herbs will add a touch of freshness to your dish. You can adjust the seasonings to your liking, adding more borscht or salt.

Serving and Variations

Bean soup is served hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. You can also add a spoonful of sour cream for an even creamier taste. This recipe is very versatile; you can add smoked meat or a few slices of sausage for a more intense flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

- How long can I keep the bean soup?
The soup can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. It is even tastier the next day when the flavors have had time to develop.

- Is it possible to freeze the soup?
Yes, bean soup freezes well. Make sure to transfer it to airtight containers and leave a little space for expansion.

- Can I use canned beans?
Yes, you can use canned beans to reduce cooking time. Add the beans at the end of the process, along with the noodles.

Nutritional Benefits

Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, being rich in fiber, vitamins (especially B), minerals, and antioxidants. They contribute to maintaining digestive health and can help control cholesterol levels.

Personal Note

This bean soup recipe reminds me of the days spent at my grandmother's house, when the aroma of the soup filled the entire home. It is a dish that not only nourishes the body but also the soul, bringing together cherished traditions and memories. I encourage you to try this recipe and add your own variations - whether it’s different vegetables, spices, or even a splash of lemon for an extra touch of freshness.

So, gather your ingredients, get together with loved ones, and enjoy this delicious bean soup!

 Ingredients: 350 g dried white beans, noodles, one onion, one bell pepper, one gourd, one carrot, tomato paste/broth, thyme, a bunch of fresh parsley, a few sprigs of fresh lovage, borscht, salt

 Tags:  bean soup