Description
Vegetable Bean Soup
Ingredients:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
3 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, diced
1/2 head of green cabbage, chopped
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
Fresh thyme or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add Vegetables:
Stir in the carrots, celery, and cabbage. Cook for 5-7 minutes until slightly softened.
3. Add Liquids and Spices:
Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir in thyme, basil, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer.
4. Add Beans:
Stir in the kidney beans and white beans. Simmer for 20-25 minutes until all vegetables are tender.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme or parsley.
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a foolproof soup. First, ensure all vegetables are uniformly chopped for even cooking. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Once translucent, add the harder vegetables—carrots and celery—and cook for 3 minutes before adding the cabbage. When adding the broth and tomatoes, scrape any browned bits from the pot bottom for extra flavor. After bringing to a boil, reduce to a true simmer (gentle bubbles) before adding the beans. The final simmer is crucial; cook until the carrots are easily pierced with a fork.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty soup is a complete meal but pairs wonderfully with crusty whole-grain bread for dipping. For a creamy contrast, add a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or pesto on top. To make it more substantial, serve over a scoop of cooked quinoa or brown rice. A side salad with a bright vinaigrette balances the soup’s richness perfectly.
How-to Summary
Sauté onion and garlic. Add and soften carrots, celery, and cabbage. Pour in tomatoes, broth, and seasonings, then boil. Reduce to a simmer, add beans, and cook for 20-25 minutes until vegetables are tender. Garnish and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried beans instead of canned? Yes, but you must cook them separately first. Use 1/2 cup of each dried bean, soaked and cooked until tender, before adding in step 4.
How can I make this soup in a slow cooker? Sauté the onion and garlic, then add all ingredients except the garnish to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Is this soup freezer-friendly? Absolutely. Cool completely and store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I add other vegetables? Definitely. Diced potatoes, kale, or zucchini are excellent additions. Add tougher vegetables with the carrots and softer greens in the last 5 minutes.
How do I make the soup thicker? For a thicker broth, blend one cup of the soup with an immersion blender or mash some beans against the pot side before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Garlic: Adding garlic with the onions can cause it to burn and turn bitter. Cook them together only briefly over medium heat.
- Underseasoning: Beans and broth need ample seasoning. Taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end, after the flavors have melded.
- Not Rinsing Canned Beans: Always drain and rinse canned beans to remove excess sodium and the starchy liquid that can cloud the soup.
- Rushing the Sauté: Allow the initial vegetables to soften properly; this builds a foundational flavor. Don’t move to the next step too quickly.
Conclusion
This Vegetable Bean Soup is a testament to how simple, wholesome ingredients can create deeply satisfying comfort food. It’s nutritious, flexible, and perfect for batch cooking. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a flavorful, hearty soup every time. Enjoy this delicious, healthy staple that warms you from the inside out.