There’s something truly magical about a warm bowl of bean soup, especially on a chilly day. It’s not just any soup; it’s hearty, nutritious, and oh-so-comforting. I remember the first time I made this recipe on a rainy afternoon, the aroma of simmering beans and spices filled my kitchen, and I couldn’t wait to dig in. This bean soup is packed with protein and fiber, making it a perfect choice for a nourishing meal. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked! It’s the kind of dish that warms your heart and fills your belly.

bean soup - detail 1

Ingredients for Bean Soup

Gather these simple ingredients to create a delicious bean soup that you’ll love! You’ll need 2 cups of mixed beans (soaked overnight for maximum softness), 1 chopped onion for sweetness, 2 diced carrots for that lovely earthy flavor, and 2 diced celery stalks to add a nice crunch. Don’t forget 4 cloves of minced garlic for that aromatic kick! For the base, grab 6 cups of vegetable broth and 1 can of diced tomatoes to bring everything together. Finally, season with 2 teaspoons of cumin, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Simple, right?

How to Prepare Bean Soup

Making this bean soup is a breeze, and I promise you’ll feel like a kitchen pro! First, drain and rinse your soaked beans to get rid of any excess starch. In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat, then sauté the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery until they’re soft and fragrant—about 5-7 minutes. It’s okay if you get a little distracted by the lovely smell; I always do!

Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for just a minute. You want to avoid burning it, so keep an eye on it! Now, add in your drained beans, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, and paprika. Bring this beautiful mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about an hour. This is where the magic happens! Stir occasionally, and if it looks too thick, feel free to add a bit more broth or water.

Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve it hot, and get ready for compliments all around! Enjoy every spoonful of this cozy goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
Nutritious ingredients packed with protein and fiber.
Warm, comforting flavors that hug you from the inside out.
One-pot meal means less cleanup—yay!
Customizable with your favorite herbs and spices.
Great for meal prep; leftovers taste even better the next day.
Vegan and hearty, satisfying everyone at the table.

Tips for Success

To make your bean soup truly shine, here are my top tips! First, always soak your beans overnight—this not only softens them but also helps reduce cooking time. If you’re short on time, you can do a quick soak by boiling them for 2 minutes and then letting them sit for an hour. Second, feel free to experiment with spices; adding a bay leaf or a pinch of chili flakes can elevate the flavors! And don’t skip the seasoning; taste as you go and adjust to your liking. Lastly, if you want a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in. Trust me, it’s worth it!

Nutritional Information

This bean soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition! Each serving (about 1 cup) contains approximately 200 calories, 1g of fat, 12g of protein, and 36g of carbohydrates, including 10g of fiber. Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use!

FAQ About Bean Soup

Can I use canned beans instead of dried? Absolutely! Canned beans are a great time-saver. Just rinse and add them in during the last 20 minutes of cooking to heat through.

How do I make it spicier? If you’re looking for a kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños! You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side.

Can I freeze leftover bean soup? Yes! Just let it cool completely, then store in airtight containers. It should keep well in the freezer for up to three months.

What can I serve with bean soup? I love pairing it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. You could also try it with some avocado slices on top!

Is this bean soup gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for a variety of dietary needs!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To store your delicious bean soup, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Easy-peasy!

Serving Suggestions

Bean soup is wonderfully versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides! I love serving it with some crusty bread for dipping—the kind that soaks up all that delicious broth. A fresh green salad with a simple vinaigrette also complements the soup perfectly. For a bit of flair, add sliced avocado or a dollop of sour cream on top!

For more delicious soup recipes, check out this sweet potato pie recipe or this lentil soup recipe. You can also learn about the health benefits of beans here.