Cozy Bean Soup

Why make this recipe

This Adaptable Bean Soup is a wonderful choice for many reasons. First, it is easy to make and uses simple ingredients that are often found in the pantry. Second, it is flexible, allowing you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it perfect for cleaning out your fridge. Finally, this soup is hearty, nutritious, and great for warming you up on a cold day.

How to make Adaptable Bean Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 onions
• 2 carrots
• 2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
• 3-4 ripe tomatoes
• 1 bay leaf
• A few large handfuls of pre-cooked cannellini beans
• Vegetable stock (enough to cover the beans and veggies)
• A few slices of orange peel
• 1 parmesan rind, or vegetarian alternative (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 handful chard stalks (and leaves if young)
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• French stick, to serve

Directions:

1. Start by roughly chopping the onions and carrots into small pieces.
2. Warm a little olive oil in a large pan over low heat. Add the chopped onions and carrots and cook until soft.
3. While the onions and carrots cook, chop the tomatoes and add them to the pan along with a bay leaf.
4. Add the pre-cooked cannellini beans to the pan. Then, pour in enough vegetable stock to cover all the ingredients.
5. If you enjoy a hint of sweetness, add a couple of slices of orange peel at this stage. Then, toss in the parmesan rind if you like.
6. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let the soup bubble gently for a while.
7. Chop the chard stalks and add them to the soup. If you have young chard leaves, you can add those too.
8. Finish with plenty of chopped parsley, and then add the chard leaves just before serving.
9. Serve the soup hot with some toasted French stick or ciabatta and a drizzle of olive oil on top.

How to serve Adaptable Bean Soup

Serve this hearty soup hot in bowls. You can garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a splash of olive oil. Pair it with toasted French stick or ciabatta for a complete meal. This soup also goes well with a nice salad on the side.

How to store Adaptable Bean Soup

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The soup will keep well for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to the freezer.

Tips to make Adaptable Bean Soup

1. Feel free to swap the vegetables based on what you have at home. Spinach, kale, or even zucchini can work well.
2. For an added flavor boost, sauté garlic with the onions and carrots.
3. If you like a thicker soup, puree some of the soup and then mix it back in.

Variation

You can make a spicy version of this soup by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking, or even chopped chilis for more heat. Additionally, you could use different types of beans or lentils for diverse flavors and textures.

FAQs

1. Can I use dried beans instead of pre-cooked ones?
Yes, you can use dried beans, but you’ll need to cook them separately beforehand or soak them overnight for best results.

2. Is it necessary to use parmesan rind?
No, it is not necessary. You can omit it or use a vegetarian alternative if you prefer.

3. Can I add other spices to the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add herbs like thyme or spices like cumin to enhance the flavor to your liking.