Are you looking for a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make meal that's perfect for a chilly evening? Look no further than this hearty vegan navy bean soup! This recipe is packed with flavor, protein, and fiber, making it a satisfying and nutritious option for the whole family. It's a perfect example of how quick dinner ideas can also be incredibly delicious and healthy meals. This is one of those best recipes that's both simple and impressive. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 (15-ounce) can navy beans, rinsed and drained
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: 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, thyme, rosemary, and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Remaining Ingredients
Pour in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and water. Add the rinsed and drained navy beans. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded.
Step 3: Season and Serve
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed; you may want to add more herbs or a touch of lemon juice for brightness. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Cooking Tips for the Best Vegan Navy Bean Soup:
- For a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup after it has simmered. Leave some beans whole for texture.
- If you have leftover cooked vegetables, feel free to add them to the soup for extra flavor and nutrition.
- To make this a thicker soup, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot before serving.
- For a richer flavor, try adding a bay leaf during the simmering process. Remember to remove it before serving.
Variations:
- Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Creamy: Stir in a dollop of vegan sour cream or coconut cream before serving for a creamier texture.
- Hearty: Add other vegetables like chopped potatoes, zucchini, or green beans for a heartier soup.
- Lemony: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors beautifully.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Around 10-12g
- Fiber: Around 15-20g
This vegan navy bean soup is a fantastic example of easy recipes that are also packed with flavor and nutrition. It's perfect for meal prepping, making it a great addition to your weekly meal plan. Enjoy this delicious and healthy homemade dish!