If you’ve ever craved a comforting, hearty meal that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, look no further than a bowl of Old Fashioned Bean Soup. This humble dish has been a family staple for generations, thanks to its simplicity, rich flavor, and ability to turn basic pantry staples into a deeply satisfying meal. Packed with beans, vegetables, and herbs, bean soup is versatile enough to be made in countless variations but always maintains that old-fashioned charm. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly day or looking to bring a taste of history into your kitchen, this classic recipe is a winner.
So, why is Old Fashioned Bean Soup so beloved? It’s one of those dishes that brings people together, evoking memories of family dinners and rustic kitchens. It’s a meal that’s not only delicious but also affordable and nourishing. With a balance of protein, fiber, and vegetables, bean soup provides a wholesome experience, all in one pot. Let’s dive into the recipe and all the little details that will make your version truly shine.
Old Fashioned Bean Soup Recipe
This recipe is designed to capture the essence of old-fashioned cooking, where simple ingredients work in harmony to create a deeply flavorful dish. The soup is hearty and has that homemade touch, thanks to the slow cooking of beans, vegetables, and seasonings. It’s the kind of recipe that doesn’t rush; it builds flavor over time, with each step contributing to the depth and richness.
Ingredients Needed
Before we begin the cooking process, here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need. These items are likely already in your pantry, making this a practical choice for a meal you can throw together even when you’re running low on groceries.
- Dried beans (such as navy, pinto, or kidney beans) – You’ll need about 2 cups. Dried beans are the heart and soul of this soup, providing that earthy, rich base.
- Vegetable oil (or bacon fat for added flavor) – For sautéing the vegetables.
- Onion (1 large) – A classic base flavor that gives the soup a savory depth.
- Carrots (2 medium, diced) – Adds sweetness and color to the soup.
- Celery (2 stalks, diced) – For crunch and freshness.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Essential for that aromatic base flavor.
- Ham bone or ham hock (optional, but highly recommended) – For that smoky, savory flavor that really elevates the dish.
- Bay leaves (2 leaves) – A fragrant herb that imparts a subtle earthiness to the soup.
- Thyme (1 teaspoon dried or a few sprigs fresh) – Adds an herbal note that complements the beans.
- Chicken or vegetable broth (6 cups) – The liquid base that brings everything together.
- Salt and pepper – To taste, but don’t skimp on the seasoning. These beans need a little salt to shine.
- Vinegar (1 tablespoon) – Adds a nice balance to the richness of the soup, cutting through the heaviness.
Cooking Instructions
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s jump into how to bring all of these elements together into the perfect old-fashioned bean soup.
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Prepare The Beans
- Start by sorting through the dried beans to remove any debris or small stones. Rinse them under cold water.
- Soak the beans overnight in a large bowl of water. This step helps to reduce cooking time and also makes the beans easier to digest. If you’re in a rush, you can use the quick soak method by boiling the beans for 2 minutes and then letting them sit, covered, for 1 hour.
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Cook The Vegetables
- In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil (or bacon fat) over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
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Simmer The Soup
- Once the vegetables are ready, add the soaked (and drained) beans to the pot, along with the bay leaves, thyme, and ham bone (if using).
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. The liquid should cover the beans by about an inch, so add extra water or broth as needed.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally and check if you need to add more water.
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Finish The Soup
- Once the beans are soft, remove the ham bone or hock (if using), and shred any meat off the bone. Return the meat to the pot and discard the bone.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and a dash of vinegar. The vinegar will help brighten up the flavors and balance the richness of the beans and ham.
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Serve
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. This soup is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad.
Ingredient Insights
Each ingredient in this soup plays a specific role in creating the overall flavor profile, and understanding their purpose can help you appreciate this dish even more.
- Dried Beans: The core of the soup, providing not only protein and fiber but also a subtle earthiness. Different beans lend different textures and flavors, so don’t be afraid to experiment with varieties.
- Ham: Whether from a bone, hock, or just a few diced pieces, the ham imparts a smoky richness that’s essential to traditional bean soup. The collagen from the bone also helps to thicken the broth.
- Carrots and Celery: These vegetables bring a natural sweetness and crunch to the soup, balancing the heartiness of the beans.
- Herbs and Seasonings: Bay leaves and thyme provide that old-fashioned depth of flavor. Fresh herbs can be added at the end for a pop of freshness, but dried herbs work just as well during the simmering process.
- Vinegar: A surprising yet necessary addition, vinegar helps to cut through the richness and brings all the flavors together in a beautiful balance.
Expert Tips
To make your Old Fashioned Bean Soup even more amazing, try these expert tips:
- Soak Your Beans Properly: If you skip soaking, you risk having beans that are still hard even after hours of cooking. If you forget to soak overnight, the quick soak method works well too.
- Don’t Skip the Vinegar: Adding a small amount of vinegar right at the end is a pro move. It brightens up the flavors and gives the soup a nice tang that balances the richness.
- Let it Rest: Bean soups always taste better the next day. Let the flavors marinate overnight for an even more flavorful dish.
- Use a Ham Bone or Hock: If possible, use a ham bone or hock for an authentic, smoky flavor. You can find them at most butcher shops or grocery stores, especially around the holidays.
- Add Greens for Extra Color: Consider adding some greens like spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for extra color, nutrition, and flavor.
Recipe Variations
While this old-fashioned bean soup recipe is classic, it’s also highly adaptable. Here are a few variations you can try:
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the ham and use a vegetable broth base instead. You can add a little smoked paprika to mimic that smoky flavor.
- Spicy Bean Soup: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick.
- Lemon Zest: For a fresh, zesty twist, try adding a teaspoon of lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving.
- Slow Cooker Version: You can easily adapt this to the slow cooker by adding all the ingredients to the pot and cooking on low for 6-8 hours.
Final Words
Old Fashioned Bean Soup is a true comfort food, rooted in tradition and history. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a rich, hearty soup that will satisfy both your stomach and your soul. Whether you’re following the classic recipe or experimenting with variations, this is one dish that never goes out of style.
FAQs
What Types Of Beans Are Best For Old Fashioned Bean Soup?
Traditional old fashioned bean soup recipes often use dried beans like navy beans, pinto beans, or great northern beans. These beans hold their shape during cooking and absorb flavors well, providing a rich and hearty base for the soup.
Do I Need To Soak The Beans Overnight For This Soup?
Soaking the beans overnight is recommended to reduce cooking time and make the beans more digestible. However, if you’re short on time, you can use the quick-soak method by boiling the beans for a few minutes and letting them sit for an hour.
Can I Make Old Fashioned Bean Soup In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can make old fashioned bean soup in a slow cooker. After soaking and rinsing the beans, add them to the slow cooker with vegetables, broth, and seasonings. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beans are tender.
What Ingredients Are Essential For An Old Fashioned Bean Soup Recipe?
The key ingredients for old fashioned bean soup include dried beans, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, ham or a ham bone for flavor, vegetable or chicken broth, and seasonings like thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
Can I Substitute Fresh Vegetables For The Ones In The Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute fresh vegetables for frozen ones, though fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions will provide more texture and flavor to the soup. Just make sure to chop them evenly for consistent cooking.
What Meats Can I Use In Old Fashioned Bean Soup Besides Ham?
Besides ham, you can use bacon, smoked sausage, or even turkey for a leaner option. Some recipes also include a smoked pork shoulder or a leftover roast for additional flavor.
Can I Freeze Leftover Old Fashioned Bean Soup?
Yes, you can freeze leftover old fashioned bean soup. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stovetop.
What Should I Serve With Old Fashioned Bean Soup?
Old fashioned bean soup pairs well with crusty bread, cornbread, or a simple side salad. You can also serve it with crackers or a slice of toasted garlic bread to enhance the meal.
How Do I Thicken Old Fashioned Bean Soup?
To thicken the soup, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot with a spoon or use an immersion blender. Alternatively, you can add a thickening agent like a cornstarch slurry or make a roux separately and stir it in.
How Long Does Old Fashioned Bean Soup Take To Cook On The Stovetop?
If the beans have been soaked overnight, old fashioned bean soup typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to cook on the stovetop. If you are using unsoaked beans, it may take up to 3 hours for the beans to become tender.