A hearty bowl of soup has a unique way of making you feel comforted, satisfied, and nourished all at once. If you’re someone who loves soups but is looking for something that combines simplicity, health, and a deep, rich flavor profile, a Mixed Bean Soup is a perfect choice. And if you’re a vegetarian or just want to enjoy a meat-free meal, this recipe will hit all the right notes.
Not only is this soup warm, filling, and perfect for chilly evenings, but it’s also packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and a wonderful variety of textures from the beans. The best part? It’s incredibly versatile, adaptable to your taste preferences, and easy to make with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
Let’s break it down. We’ll cover the ingredients, the cooking process, some valuable tips, and even explore ways you can tweak the recipe to suit different tastes.
Mixed Bean Soup Vegetarian Recipe
This vegetarian mixed bean soup is a true celebration of beans in all their glory. It combines various types of beans-each with its own unique flavor and texture-along with a medley of vegetables and a delicious, savory broth that ties everything together. Whether you serve it as a light meal or a starter, it’s bound to impress.
Ingredients Needed
The beauty of mixed bean soup lies in its flexibility. You can choose the beans you love or mix and match according to what’s available in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:
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Mixed Beans (around 3 cups, or 2 cans)
- A combination of black beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, and chickpeas. You can opt for dried or canned beans.
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Vegetable Broth (4 cups)
- A rich vegetable broth will serve as the base, but feel free to use water if you’re looking for a lighter option.
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Olive Oil (2 tbsp)
- To sauté the vegetables and bring out their flavors.
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Onion (1 medium, diced)
- Adds a savory sweetness and depth to the soup.
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Carrot (1 large, diced)
- Brings a slight sweetness and color contrast.
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Celery (2 stalks, diced)
- A perfect addition for its crunch and subtle flavor.
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Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
- A must for that fragrant base that will elevate the soup.
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Tomatoes (2 medium, chopped)
- Adds acidity and richness to balance the beans.
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Bay Leaves (2)
- For aromatic depth.
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Cumin (1 tsp)
- A warming, earthy spice that pairs wonderfully with beans.
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Thyme (1 tsp, dried or fresh)
- Adds a bit of earthiness and herbal fragrance.
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Salt & Pepper (to taste)
- Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
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Spinach or Kale (2 cups)
- Leafy greens bring in extra nutrition and a pop of color.
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Lemon Juice (1 tbsp)
- A touch of acidity to balance out the soup at the end.
Cooking Instructions
Making mixed bean soup is a pretty straightforward process, and the result is always rewarding. Here’s how to prepare it step-by-step:
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Prep The Ingredients
If you’re using dried beans, soak them overnight and cook them until soft. If you’re using canned beans, rinse them thoroughly to remove excess sodium. Chop all vegetables (onions, carrots, celery, and tomatoes).
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Sauté Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.
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Add Garlic & Spices
Add the minced garlic, cumin, thyme, and bay leaves. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. This will allow the spices to bloom and infuse the base with deep flavors.
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Add Beans & Broth
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the pre-cooked or canned beans (drained and rinsed), and the chopped tomatoes. Stir everything together, allowing it to simmer for 25-30 minutes.
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Add Greens
Once the soup has been simmering for a while and the flavors have melded, add the spinach or kale. Stir until the greens are wilted and incorporated into the soup.
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Final Seasoning
Taste the soup and add salt, pepper, and a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavor. Let it cook for another 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
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Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls, and serve hot. You can garnish it with fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for added creaminess (optional). Enjoy!
Ingredient Insights
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Beans
Beans are the star of this dish. They’re rich in protein, fiber, and essential minerals like iron and magnesium. Each variety of bean contributes a unique texture and flavor. For instance, black beans are creamy and rich, kidney beans are tender but firm, and chickpeas bring a nutty crunch to the soup.
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Vegetable Broth
A flavorful vegetable broth is the backbone of this soup. It infuses the beans and vegetables with savory goodness. Always choose low-sodium broth if you’re concerned about your salt intake, or make your own for a more personalized taste.
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Olive Oil
This healthy fat is a great way to sauté the vegetables and give the soup an extra layer of richness. You could swap it with coconut oil if you’re going for a slightly different flavor profile, but olive oil adds a Mediterranean touch that works wonders here.
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Garlic & Spices
Garlic is one of the easiest ways to build a flavorful base for any soup. Cumin and thyme, while simple, work together to provide that earthy warmth that makes the soup comforting and satisfying.
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Greens
Whether you choose spinach or kale, these leafy greens add vitamins and minerals while enhancing the visual appeal of the soup. Kale, in particular, holds up better in longer simmering, while spinach wilts quickly and adds a subtle sweetness.
Expert Tips
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Pre-Soaking Beans
If you’re using dried beans, make sure to soak them overnight to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility. Soaking also helps to remove some of the compounds that can cause bloating.
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Adjusting Texture
If you prefer a creamier soup, you can use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup after it’s cooked. This will give you a smooth texture while leaving some chunks of beans and vegetables intact for contrast.
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Layering Flavors
For an even richer flavor, try roasting the vegetables in the oven before adding them to the soup. This will caramelize the veggies and bring out deeper, sweeter flavors.
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Simmering Time
Don’t rush the simmering. The longer you let the soup cook (within reason), the more the flavors will develop. If you have time, letting the soup rest for an hour or two will enhance the taste.
Recipe Variations
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Spicy Mixed Bean Soup
Add a diced jalapeño or some chili flakes to the soup while sautéing the onions and garlic. This adds a nice, spicy kick that pairs wonderfully with the richness of the beans.
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Smoky Flavor
To introduce a smoky depth, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or chipotle powder. It gives the soup a cozy, barbecue-like flavor without needing to grill anything.
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Beans And Quinoa
For extra protein and texture, add a half cup of quinoa during the last 15 minutes of cooking. Quinoa will absorb the flavors of the soup and make the dish even heartier.
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Creamy Bean Soup
For a creamier texture, add a can of coconut milk or a few tablespoons of heavy cream near the end of cooking. This will make the soup velvety and smooth while keeping it vegetarian.
Final Words
Mixed bean soup is a perfect dish for any season, though it’s especially comforting when the weather turns cooler. It’s incredibly versatile, so you can tweak it to fit your flavor preferences or dietary needs. Whether you want to load it up with spices, keep it simple, or add in some grains for extra nutrition, the base recipe provides a fantastic foundation for your creativity in the kitchen.
FAQs
What Beans Are Best For Mixed Bean Soup?
The best beans for mixed bean soup include kidney beans, black beans, chickpeas, pinto beans, and cannellini beans. These varieties offer a balance of flavor, texture, and nutrition. You can also use lentils or navy beans for additional diversity.
Can I Use Canned Beans Instead Of Dried Beans In Mixed Bean Soup?
Yes, canned beans can be used as a time-saving alternative to dried beans. Just be sure to rinse them well to remove excess sodium. If using canned beans, the cooking time will be significantly shorter.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Mixed Bean Soup?
The cooking time for mixed bean soup depends on whether you’re using dried or canned beans. With dried beans, it will take about 1.5 to 2 hours of simmering. If using canned beans, the soup will be ready in about 30-45 minutes, as the beans are already cooked.
How Do I Prevent The Beans From Becoming Mushy In Mixed Bean Soup?
To prevent beans from becoming mushy, avoid overcooking them. When using dried beans, soak them overnight before cooking, which helps them cook more evenly. For canned beans, add them towards the end of the cooking process to maintain their texture.
What Vegetables Should I Add To Mixed Bean Soup?
You can add a variety of vegetables to mixed bean soup, such as onions, garlic, carrots, celery, bell peppers, and tomatoes. These vegetables enhance the flavor and provide additional nutrients. Leafy greens like spinach or kale are also great additions.
Is Mixed Bean Soup Vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, mixed bean soup can be completely vegetarian as it is typically made with beans, vegetables, and a flavorful broth. Make sure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian.
Can I Make Mixed Bean Soup In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can make mixed bean soup in a slow cooker. Simply add your soaked dried beans, vegetables, broth, and seasonings. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. If using canned beans, add them during the last hour of cooking.
Can I Freeze Mixed Bean Soup?
Yes, mixed bean soup freezes well. After cooking, allow the soup to cool completely and then store it in airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly when ready to serve.
What Seasonings Work Well In Mixed Bean Soup?
Seasonings that work well in mixed bean soup include garlic, cumin, paprika, thyme, bay leaves, oregano, and pepper. You can also add chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro add a burst of flavor when served.
How Can I Make Mixed Bean Soup Spicier?
To make mixed bean soup spicier, you can add ingredients like chili powder, cayenne pepper, jalapeños, or red pepper flakes. Adjust the spice level based on your personal preference. Adding a bit of hot sauce or a spicy seasoning blend also works well.