Are you looking for a delicious, healthy, and satisfying meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further! This hearty 9 bean soup recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a weekend potluck. Packed with protein and fiber, this homemade recipe is a fantastic example of healthy eating that doesn't compromise on flavor. It’s one of those easy recipes that will become a staple in your quick dinner ideas repertoire. This is comfort food at its finest!
Ingredients:
This simple recipe uses pantry staples, making it an ideal choice for busy cooks.
- 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 cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can navy beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can butter beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
This delicious recipe is surprisingly straightforward and perfect for beginners in the kitchen.
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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 in the garlic, oregano, basil, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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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, deeper flavor. 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. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for the Best 9 Bean Soup:
- Don't be afraid to experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your liking. A dash of cumin or chili powder can add a nice depth of flavor.
- Use a variety of beans: While this recipe calls for nine specific types of beans, you can certainly substitute some beans with others. The key is to have a mix of textures and flavors.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. This makes it a perfect recipe for meal prepping.
- Add some greens: Stir in a handful of chopped kale or spinach during the last 10 minutes of cooking for added nutrients.
- Thicken the soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot before serving.
Variations:
- Spicy 9 Bean Soup: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Vegetarian 9 Bean Soup: Ensure you use vegetable broth.
- Hearty 9 Bean Soup with Meat: Add 1 pound of cooked sausage (Italian sausage is a good option) during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
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 hearty and delicious 9 bean soup is a perfect example of a healthy and satisfying meal. It's a simple recipe that's easy to customize to your preferences, making it a versatile addition to your weekly meal plan. Enjoy!