Five-Bean Soup
Description
This hearty five-bean soup is a comforting staple perfect for chilly evenings. Featuring a robust blend of northern, kidney, pinto, great northern, and split peas, it offers a rich texture and deep, savory flavor. The addition of stewed tomatoes and aromatic spices like cumin and savory creates a complex taste profile that warms the soul. Ideal for meal prep, this vegan-friendly dish stores well and improves with age, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or potlucks. Simple ingredients come together in a slow simmer to create a wholesome, satisfying bowl of goodness.Ingredients
Directions
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Sort through the dried beans, removing any stones or debris, then rinse thoroughly under cold water.
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Place all rinsed beans in a large stockpot or kettle and cover with enough water to submerge them by at least two inches.
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Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then cook for 3-4 minutes.
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Remove the pot from heat, cover, and let the beans stand for 1 hour.
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While beans soak, combine chives, savory, cumin, and bay leaf in a small piece of cheesecloth or a spice bag; tie securely.
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Drain and rinse the beans after soaking.
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Return the drained beans to the pot and add fresh water until beans are covered by about 2 inches.
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Add the spice bag and bouillon cubes to the pot.
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Bring the mixture back to a boil over high heat.
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Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for 1.5 hours or until beans are tender, stirring occasionally.
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Remove and discard the spice bag and bay leaf.
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Stir in the stewed tomatoes and heat through for 5-10 minutes until hot.
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Taste and add salt if needed before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 14
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 32.9kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.2g1%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 6.4mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 7.4g3%
- Dietary Fiber 2.9g12%
- Sugars 3.5g
- Protein 1.9g4%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage: Cool completely before refrigerating in airtight containers. Soup will keep for up to 5 days. It freezes well for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Substitutions: For a fully vegan option, ensure your bouillon cubes are vegetarian/vegan friendly. You can substitute vegetable broth for water for a deeper flavor.
Variations: Add diced carrots, celery, or onions during the simmering step for added vegetables and flavor.
Tip: If beans are not tender after 1.5 hours, continue simmering in 15-minute increments until desired texture is reached. Ensure they remain covered by water, adding more hot water if necessary.
