Here’s a simple and hearty bean soup recipe — perfect for a cozy meal!
🥣 Classic Bean Soup
Serves: 4–6
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1–1½ hours (or 30 min if using canned beans)
Ingredients
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2 tbsp olive oil or butter
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1 onion, chopped
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2 carrots, diced
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2 celery stalks, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp smoked paprika (optional but tasty)
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1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
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4 cups (1 L) vegetable or chicken broth
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3 cups cooked beans (any mix — navy, cannellini, kidney, or black beans)
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1 can (14 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes (optional)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 bay leaf
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A handful of chopped parsley or spinach (for garnish)
Instructions
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Sauté veggies:
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery. Cook until softened (about 5–7 minutes). -
Add garlic and spices:
Stir in garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook 1 minute until fragrant. -
Add beans and broth:
Add beans, broth, diced tomatoes (if using), and the bay leaf. Bring to a boil. -
Simmer:
Lower heat and simmer uncovered for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally.-
For a creamier texture, mash some beans against the side of the pot or use an immersion blender for a few seconds.
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Finish and serve:
Remove bay leaf. Adjust seasoning. Stir in chopped parsley or spinach just before serving.
Optional Add-ins
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A diced potato or sweet potato
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A ham bone, sausage, or smoked turkey leg for extra flavor
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A squeeze of lemon juice or splash of vinegar for brightness
Would you like me to give you a vegan version, instant pot version, or a specific cuisine style (like Italian or Cuban)?
