Are you craving a comforting, flavourful meal that warms you from the inside out? Look no further than this classic Southern Soup Beans recipe! This easy recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend lunch. It's a testament to the magic of simple ingredients transformed into a truly delicious dish. This recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals made easy, perfect for those busy weeknights. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking with this Southern staple.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried pinto beans, or your favorite soup bean
- 8 cups water
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 slices bacon, diced (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, to balance the savory notes)
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (optional, added at the end for depth)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Rinse and Soak (Optional but Recommended): Rinse the beans thoroughly under cold water. Soaking the beans overnight (or for at least 6 hours) significantly reduces cooking time and improves their texture. If you skip this step, add an extra 30-45 minutes to the cooking time.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon (if using) over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the pot. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine and Simmer: Add the rinsed beans, water, smoked paprika, thyme, black pepper, bay leaf, and brown sugar (if using) to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 1/2 - 2 hours, or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the beans start to become too thick before they are tender, add a little more water.
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Season and Finish: Once the beans are tender, remove the bay leaf. Season with salt to taste. If using, stir in the apple cider vinegar. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and crumbled bacon (if used). Serve hot with crusty bread for a truly satisfying meal.
Tips for the Best Southern Soup Beans:
- Don't overcook the beans: Overcooked beans can become mushy. Check for tenderness frequently towards the end of the cooking time.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking. A dash of cayenne pepper adds a nice kick!
- Make it ahead: Soup beans taste even better the next day! This recipe makes excellent leftovers.
- Use bone-in ham hock or smoked ham for extra flavour: This will significantly amplify the richness and smoky flavour of your soup beans. Remember to remove the bone before serving.
Variations:
- Spicy Southern Soup Beans: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Southern Soup Beans: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of water for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Creamy Southern Soup Beans: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving size. However, a typical serving provides a good source of fiber and protein, making it a healthy and satisfying meal. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredient measurements.
This hearty and flavourful Southern Soup Beans recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, or a comforting weekend meal. Enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade cooking with this delicious, healthy, and satisfying dish! It's a wonderful addition to any collection of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas.