Are you looking for a delicious, healthy, and satisfying meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further! This 9 bean soup recipe is a perfect example of a quick dinner idea that's packed with flavor and nutrients. It’s a fantastic choice for a chilly evening, a comforting lunch, or even meal prepping for the week. This homemade cooking classic is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses a blend of nine beans – you can adjust based on your preference and what you have on hand. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and adaptability.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can great northern beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup small lima beans (dried or canned)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions: Simple Steps to a Flavorful Bowl
Follow these easy steps and you'll be enjoying a warm bowl of delicious 9 bean soup in no time.
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
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Bloom the spices: Add the minced garlic, oregano, basil, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) and cook for another minute, until fragrant. This step enhances the flavor of your spices.
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Add the remaining ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and all types of beans. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, for a richer, more flavorful soup. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together.
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Season and serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Cooking Tips for the Best 9 Bean Soup
- For a thicker soup: If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot before serving.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced potatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- Use different beans: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of beans based on your preferences and availability.
- Make it spicy: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the level of spiciness.
- Slow cooker option: This soup is also perfect for a slow cooker. Simply add all ingredients to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Variations to Explore
- Vegetarian Chili: Add a tablespoon of chili powder and a dash of cumin for a southwestern twist.
- Italian-inspired: Add a teaspoon of dried rosemary and a bay leaf for an Italian flair.
- Ham bone: For a richer, meatier soup, add a ham bone during the simmering process. Remove the bone before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fiber: Approximately 10-15g
This 9 bean soup is a simple, healthy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a wonderful example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor and nutrition. Enjoy!