A hearty, soul-warming bowl of soup can be the perfect solution for a chilly evening, and if you’ve ever tried making a homemade bean soup, you know just how satisfying it can be. The Ninja Foodi 15 Bean Soup recipe is an absolute game-changer when it comes to cooking a rich, flavorful, and nutritious meal in no time.
Using the versatility of the Ninja Foodi, this recipe not only gives you a dish that’s packed with flavor but also simplifies the cooking process by combining multiple functions-pressure cooking, slow cooking, and sautéing-all in one pot. If you’re new to the Ninja Foodi or even pressure cooking in general, don’t worry; this recipe walks you through the steps to ensure success.
So, why 15 beans? The variety of beans adds not just texture but depth of flavor, making every spoonful of soup a different experience. Plus, each type of bean has its own unique nutritional profile, which means you’re getting a health-boosting meal in every bite!
Let’s dive into the specifics, break down what you’ll need, how to make this dish from start to finish, and sprinkle in some expert tips and possible variations for you to explore!
Ninja Foodi 15 Bean Soup Recipe
This recipe uses a combination of beans to create a filling, fiber-packed meal. The Ninja Foodi makes the process faster and more convenient while maintaining that homemade charm. Ready for a warm, satisfying bowl of soup that’s rich in taste and easy on the prep time?
Ingredients Needed
Here’s a breakdown of all the ingredients you’ll need for this Ninja Foodi 15 Bean Soup:
For The Soup Base
- 1 bag of 15-bean mix (You can find this in most grocery stores. It’s often a mix of navy beans, kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans, great northern beans, and more!)
- 1 onion, finely chopped (adds depth to the flavor)
- 2 celery stalks, chopped (provides crunch and freshness)
- 2 carrots, diced (adds a natural sweetness to the soup)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (for aromatic, savory notes)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (gives the soup a slight tanginess)
- 1-2 bay leaves (for that earthy, aromatic quality)
- 6 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth (or enough to cover your ingredients in the pot)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (adds a savory, earthy flavor)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a hint of smokiness)
- Salt and pepper to taste (basic seasoning but makes all the difference)
For The Garnish
- Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional, for a fresh finish)
- Lemon wedges (for squeezing over the soup just before eating for a zesty pop)
Cooking Instructions
Now that we have everything we need, let’s walk through how to make this incredible 15 Bean Soup in the Ninja Foodi!
- Soak the Beans: Begin by soaking your 15-bean mix overnight or quick-soak them. If you’re short on time, the Ninja Foodi’s pressure cooker function can help speed up this process-simply pressure cook the beans for about 5 minutes and let them sit for another 10 minutes before releasing the pressure.
- Prep Your Veggies: While the beans are soaking, chop the onions, celery, carrots, and garlic. This will allow everything to come together quickly once you begin cooking.
- Sauté: Set your Ninja Foodi to the ’Sauté’ mode. Add a splash of olive oil and sauté your onion, garlic, celery, and carrots until they soften, about 5-7 minutes. This step brings out the natural sweetness in the vegetables and intensifies the flavors.
- Add the Beans and Broth: Once the vegetables have softened, add your drained and rinsed beans to the pot. Pour in the broth, diced tomatoes, bay leaves, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Pressure Cook: Close the lid and set your Ninja Foodi to the ’Pressure Cook’ function on high for 30 minutes. Make sure the valve is set to sealing. This pressure cooking time allows the beans to become tender and infuses all the flavors.
- Release and Serve: Once the pressure cooking is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes before performing a quick release. Taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or paprika if needed.
- Garnish: For an extra burst of freshness, sprinkle some chopped parsley or cilantro on top, and serve with a wedge of lemon for a tangy, bright finish.
Ingredient Insights
Let’s take a moment to explore the key ingredients that make this dish so nourishing and flavorful:
- 15 Bean Mix: The variety of beans adds multiple textures, and each one contributes a unique taste and nutritional benefit. Beans are a great source of protein, fiber, and minerals, especially iron and potassium. They’re also low in fat, making them heart-healthy.
- Smoked Paprika: This spice introduces a warm, smoky flavor that brings a depth of complexity to the soup. It’s one of those ingredients that adds richness without overpowering other flavors. If you’re a fan of a little heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the smoked paprika.
- Vegetables: The onion, carrots, and celery are the backbone of this soup, offering sweetness, earthiness, and crunch. They’re also packed with vitamins, like vitamin A from the carrots and vitamin C from the celery.
- Bay Leaves & Thyme: These aromatic herbs work in the background, infusing the soup with a subtle earthy flavor that complements the beans.
- Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brings brightness and cuts through the richness of the soup, making every bite refreshing.
Expert Tips
Here are some pro tips to make your Ninja Foodi 15 Bean Soup even better:
- Soaking the Beans: Soaking beans overnight helps reduce the cooking time and ensures they cook evenly. If you skip this step, pressure cooking for a little longer (around 40 minutes) can make up for it, but you may lose some of that creamy texture in the beans.
- Don’t Skip the Sauté Step: It might seem like an extra step, but sautéing the vegetables really brings out their natural sweetness and adds a deeper flavor to the base of the soup.
- Adjusting the Texture: After cooking, if you prefer a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to lightly blend part of the soup. This will create a creamier consistency while still leaving some beans intact for that satisfying bite.
- Salt at the End: Beans can be a bit tricky when it comes to salting. Adding salt at the beginning of cooking can sometimes make the beans tough, so it’s best to wait until after the soup has finished cooking to adjust the seasoning.
- Toppings: Top your soup with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for added creaminess. If you’re looking for a vegan option, avocado or nutritional yeast can work well.
Recipe Variations
While the 15 Bean Soup recipe is already quite customizable, here are a few variations to make it your own:
- Add Meat: If you’re a fan of a meatier soup, consider adding smoked sausage, ham hocks, or bacon for an extra dose of flavor. Simply sauté the meat with the vegetables at the beginning.
- Spicy Twist: For a spicy kick, throw in some diced jalapeños or a couple of teaspoons of chili powder. You can also use a hot smoked paprika variety for more heat.
- Herb Variations: If you prefer a different herbal flavor, try substituting thyme for rosemary or adding a little oregano or basil to change the profile.
- Vegan Version: The recipe can easily be made vegan by using vegetable broth and omitting any meat or animal-based products.
- Make It a Stew: If you want a thicker, heartier consistency, reduce the broth to 5 cups and let the soup simmer longer once the pressure cooking is done.
Final Words
This Ninja Foodi 15 Bean Soup recipe is a wonderful example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create something truly amazing. It’s a one-pot meal that takes full advantage of the Ninja Foodi’s capabilities, saving you time without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, feeding a crowd, or just craving a cozy bowl of soup, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.
FAQs
What Beans Are Included In The 15 Bean Soup Mix For Ninja Foodi?
The 15 bean soup mix typically includes a variety of dried beans such as navy, kidney, pinto, black, lima, garbanzo, and split peas, among others. The specific beans can vary depending on the brand you purchase.
Do I Need To Soak The Beans Before Cooking In The Ninja Foodi?
No, you do not need to soak the beans before cooking in the Ninja Foodi. However, soaking the beans can help reduce cooking time and make them easier to digest. If you choose to soak, soak them overnight in water or use the quick-soak method by boiling the beans for 2 minutes and letting them sit for 1 hour.
Can I Use Fresh Beans Instead Of A Pre-packaged 15 Bean Mix?
Yes, you can use fresh beans, but you will need to combine different types to replicate the 15-bean mix. You will also need to adjust cooking times depending on the type of beans you choose.
How Long Should I Cook The 15 Bean Soup In The Ninja Foodi?
For the best results, cook the 15 bean soup in the Ninja Foodi using the pressure cooker setting for 30 minutes. Allow the pressure to naturally release for 10-15 minutes before opening the lid.
Can I Add Meat To The 15 Bean Soup Recipe In The Ninja Foodi?
Yes, you can add meat such as ham, bacon, or sausage to the soup for added flavor. If using ham hocks or smoked sausage, you can add them to the pot before pressure cooking and remove bones afterward.
What Seasonings Should I Use For A Flavorful Ninja Foodi 15 Bean Soup?
Common seasonings include garlic, onion, bay leaves, thyme, smoked paprika, and black pepper. You can also use vegetable or chicken broth instead of water for extra depth of flavor.
Can I Make A Vegetarian Or Vegan Version Of The Ninja Foodi 15 Bean Soup?
Yes, for a vegetarian or vegan version, simply omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add extra seasonings or vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers to enhance the flavor.
Do I Need To Add Water Or Broth To The Ninja Foodi 15 Bean Soup?
Yes, you will need to add liquid. You can use water, vegetable broth, or chicken broth. Typically, around 6-8 cups of liquid is required to ensure the beans are covered and cook properly.
How Do I Prevent The 15 Bean Soup From Becoming Too Thick In The Ninja Foodi?
If the soup becomes too thick, you can add additional liquid, such as water or broth, during or after cooking. Stir to combine and adjust to your desired consistency.
Can I Store Leftover 15 Bean Soup Made In The Ninja Foodi?
Yes, leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before storing.