Craving a comforting, flavorful, and healthy meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This nine bean soup recipe is a delicious and nutritious dish perfect for a cozy night in or a satisfying weeknight dinner. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and vegetables, making it a fantastic choice for a healthy meal plan. This recipe is perfect for beginner cooks looking for easy recipes and experienced chefs seeking a delicious twist on a classic. Let's dive into this satisfying homemade cooking adventure!
Ingredients: You'll Need These for the Best Nine Bean Soup
This recipe uses a mix of beans for a rich and complex flavor. Feel free to adjust based on your preference and what you have on hand. It's all about that delicious homemade taste!
- 1 cup dried navy beans
- 1 cup dried pinto beans
- 1 cup dried kidney beans
- ½ cup dried great northern beans
- ½ cup dried black beans
- ½ cup dried lima beans
- ½ cup dried small white beans (such as cannellini)
- ½ cup dried yellow split peas
- ½ cup dried red lentils
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: fresh cilantro, sour cream, shredded cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Your Delicious Nine Bean Soup
This recipe is designed for easy homemade cooking, even for busy weeknights.
Step 1: Prepare the Beans: Rinse all beans and lentils thoroughly under cold water. Soaking overnight is recommended, especially for dried beans, but not mandatory. If not soaking, add an extra 30 minutes to the cooking time.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery in a little olive oil until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine and Simmer: Add the prepared beans, lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1.5-2 hours, or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If using unsoaked beans, you may need to add more broth during cooking to maintain a good consistency.
Step 4: Adjust and Serve: Once the beans are tender, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. You can use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup for a creamier texture, or leave it chunky for a heartier feel. Ladle into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings like fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or shredded cheese.
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Nine Bean Soup
- Soaking the beans: Soaking beans overnight significantly reduces cooking time and improves digestibility.
- Don't be afraid to experiment: Feel free to add other vegetables like corn, zucchini, or potatoes. Adding a bay leaf during simmering adds another layer of flavor.
- Spice it up: For a spicier soup, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
Variations: Nine Bean Soup with a Twist
- Vegetarian/Vegan: This recipe is naturally vegetarian. To make it vegan, ensure you use vegetable broth.
- Spicy Nine Bean Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño for a kick.
- Hearty Nine Bean Soup: Add cooked sausage or ham for a heartier meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fiber: 10-15g
This hearty and flavorful nine bean soup is a perfect example of delicious and healthy food recipes that are easy to make. It’s a great option for quick dinner ideas and a fantastic way to enjoy homemade cooking at its best. Enjoy this best recipe for a comforting and nutritious meal!