Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the magic of 15 bean soup! This hearty dish is like a warm hug in a bowl. Packed full of different beans, it’s not just delicious; it’s bursting with vitamins, minerals, and protein, making it a great choice for anyone wanting a nutritious meal. I love how each spoonful brings a wonderful mix of textures and flavors, from the creamy beans to the savory broth. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; you can easily customize it with your favorite spices or veggies. Trust me, once you’ve made this 15 bean soup, it’ll become a cozy staple in your kitchen. Perfect for chilly nights or when you need a little extra comfort, you simply can’t go wrong with this recipe!
Ingredients List
Gather these simple yet hearty ingredients to create your delicious 15 bean soup:
- 1 cup 15 bean mix: A colorful blend of beans that adds flavor and nutrition.
- 8 cups vegetable broth: Use low-sodium broth for a healthier option.
- 1 onion, chopped: This adds a sweet, aromatic base for the soup.
- 2 carrots, diced: They bring a nice sweetness and a pop of color.
- 2 celery stalks, diced: For that classic soup flavor and crunch.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
- 1 can diced tomatoes: To add a tangy richness that balances the beans.
- 2 teaspoons cumin: A warm spice that enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon thyme: Adds a lovely herbal note to the soup.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together!
How to Prepare 15 Bean Soup
Getting started on your 15 bean soup is simpler than you might think! Let’s dive into the steps to create this delicious, comforting meal. First, you’ll want to rinse the 15 bean mix under cold water, removing any debris or small stones. Then, soak them overnight in plenty of water—this softens the beans and cuts down on cooking time. If you forget this step, don’t worry! You can use the quick soak method by boiling them for about 2 minutes, then letting them sit for an hour.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large pot, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery, sautéing for about 5 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant.
- Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. You really want to keep an eye on this so it doesn’t burn—it adds so much flavor!
- Now, it’s time to add the star of the show! Toss in those soaked beans along with the 8 cups of vegetable broth and the can of diced tomatoes.
- Sprinkle in the cumin and thyme, giving everything a good stir. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 1 to 1.5 hours. This is where the magic happens—just let those flavors meld together!
- Before serving, taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking. And that’s it! A hearty bowl of 15 bean soup is ready to warm your soul.
Nutritional Information
This 15 bean soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition! Each serving, which is about 1 cup, contains approximately 200 calories, making it a filling yet light option. You’ll get a wholesome serving of protein, around 12 grams, thanks to the variety of beans. Plus, it’s rich in fiber—10 grams per serving—which is great for digestion. The soup is low in fat, with only 1 gram, and contains no cholesterol, making it a heart-healthy choice. With 36 grams of carbohydrates, it’s a perfect energy source, especially on those chilly days when you need a little extra warmth inside!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s packed with protein and fiber, making it a filling and healthy meal choice.
- The variety of beans means a delightful mix of textures and flavors in every bowl.
- Super easy to prepare—just chop, sauté, and let it simmer!
- It’s a one-pot wonder, which means less cleanup afterward!
- Perfect for meal prep; it stores well and tastes even better the next day.
- Customizable! You can add in your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own.
Tips for Success
To make the best 15 bean soup, here are some handy tips that I swear by! First off, don’t skip the soaking step—it really helps the beans cook evenly and keeps them tender. If you find yourself in a pinch, remember the quick soak method! Also, be generous with your seasonings; they’re key to bringing out the flavors in this hearty dish. Taste as you go, and don’t be shy about adjusting salt and pepper to your preference. Lastly, feel free to add in leftover veggies or herbs you have on hand; it’s a great way to clean out your fridge while enhancing the soup’s richness. Happy cooking!
Variations
One of the best things about 15 bean soup is how versatile it is! You can easily switch things up based on what you have on hand or what you’re in the mood for. For a heartier version, try adding diced potatoes or sweet potatoes; they add a lovely creaminess as they cook. If you’re a fan of heat, toss in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. You can also experiment with different herbs like oregano or bay leaves for added depth. Want a smoky flavor? Just add some smoked paprika or even a piece of smoked sausage (if you’re not strictly vegan). Trust me, these little tweaks can take your soup from good to absolutely amazing!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your delicious 15 bean soup is super easy! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days, making it perfect for meal prep! If you want to save some for later, this soup freezes beautifully—just make sure to use a freezer-safe container, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, you can warm it on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. Just add a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick, and stir well. Enjoy your cozy soup again and again!
FAQ Section
Can I make 15 bean soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just sauté the veggies in a pan first, then add everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beans are tender.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze them for longer storage. Just remember to leave some space in the container for expansion!
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Sure! Adding diced ham or sausage can bring a smoky flavor that complements the beans beautifully. Just toss it in with the beans and broth.
What if I don’t have a 15 bean mix?
No worries! You can use any variety of beans you like—just ensure they’re soaked if needed, and adjust the cooking time based on what you choose.
How do I know when the beans are done?
The beans should be tender but not mushy. If they still have a bite to them after simmering, just keep cooking a bit longer until they reach your desired texture!
Learn more about the benefits of bean soup and how it can be a nutritious addition to your diet.
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15 Bean Soup: 5 Comforting Ways to Warm Your Soul
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A hearty and nutritious soup made with a variety of beans.
Ingredients
- 1 cup 15 bean mix
- 8 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the 15 bean mix and soak overnight.
- In a large pot, heat a little oil and sauté the onion, carrots, and celery for 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add soaked beans, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, and thyme.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Add salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Notes
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- This soup freezes well.
- Feel free to add other vegetables as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: 15 bean soup, bean soup, healthy soup, vegan soup
