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Bean Soup

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This Classic Bean Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish, perfect for any time of the year. Packed with tender beans, fresh vegetables, and savory herbs, it’s a meal that brings warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound dried navy beans (or a 15-bean mix)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups chopped kale or spinach (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Beans:
    • Rinse the dried beans under cold water.
    • Place them in a large bowl, cover with water, and soak overnight.
    • Drain and rinse the soaked beans before cooking.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables:
    • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
    • Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
    • Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
  3. Cook the Soup:
    • Add the soaked and drained beans to the pot.
    • Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes with their juice.
    • Stir in the bay leaves, dried thyme, and smoked paprika.
    • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
  4. Add Greens (Optional):
    • If using kale or spinach, stir it into the soup during the last 10 minutes of cooking, allowing it to wilt.
  5. Finish and Serve:
    • Remove the bay leaves from the soup.
    • Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
    • For a touch of brightness, stir in lemon juice just before serving.
    • Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy with crusty bread.

 


Notes

  • For a meatier version, consider adding diced smoked sausage or ham during the sautéing step.
  • To thicken the soup, use an immersion blender to purée a portion of the soup, or remove a cup, blend it, and return it to the pot.
  • This soup stores well and often tastes better the next day as flavors meld.