Name: 15 Bean Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Ingredients: 1 bag of 15 bean soup mix (variety of beans such as pinto, kidney, navy, and lima beans); 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth); 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, peeled and diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 2 bay leaves; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); 1-2 smoked ham hocks or bacon (optional); 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Nothing beats a warm, hearty bowl of soup, especially when it’s packed with flavor and nutritious ingredients. 15 Bean Soup is the ultimate comfort food for chilly days, offering a rich, savory broth brimming with a variety of beans, vegetables, and spices. This hearty soup is filling and deeply satisfying, making it perfect for both lunch and dinner. Whether you’re serving it up to your family or making a big batch for meal prep, this soup will warm you from the inside out.

What makes this dish so wonderful is the combination of textures from the beans, the richness of the broth, and the earthy, smoky flavors that meld together. The versatility of this soup allows you to adjust it to your liking, adding your favorite vegetables or seasoning for that perfect personalized touch. With minimal effort, you can have a wholesome meal that not only tastes amazing but also provides tons of plant-based protein and fiber.

Why You’ll Love This 15 Bean Soup

This 15 Bean Soup offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures in every spoonful. It’s hearty, nourishing, and perfect for anyone looking to add more plant-based meals to their routine. With a rich, flavorful broth and a mix of beans that offer a satisfying bite, it’s not only filling but also great for your health. The inclusion of fresh vegetables and savory herbs elevates the taste while also contributing valuable nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just a fan of wholesome meals, this soup is bound to become a favorite!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

When it comes to making 15 Bean Soup, the key to success lies in having the right tools and equipment. Here are some essential tools to make your cooking experience easier and more enjoyable:

Large Stock Pot or Dutch Oven: This is essential for holding all the beans, broth, and vegetables while simmering. A heavy pot will ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
Colander: You’ll need a colander to rinse the dried beans before cooking to remove any debris.
Wooden Spoon or Ladle: For stirring the soup, a sturdy wooden spoon or ladle helps to prevent scratching your pot and allows for easy stirring of the soup without affecting the consistency.
Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is important for chopping the vegetables and herbs. It will make your prep time faster and more efficient.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: Accurate measurement of ingredients is essential, especially when dealing with spices and seasonings, to ensure the perfect balance of flavors.

Importance of Each Tool

Using the right equipment makes all the difference in terms of the soup’s consistency, flavor infusion, and overall quality. A large stock pot is particularly useful for ensuring all the ingredients are well incorporated and cook evenly. The colander helps prevent any unwanted particles from making their way into your soup, while the wooden spoon is gentle on your pot and ensures you don’t disturb the beans too much. Having a sharp knife means you can quickly chop your vegetables without a lot of effort, and measuring tools guarantee you’re adding the perfect amount of each ingredient, so you get the exact taste you’re hoping for.

Preparation Tips

Soak the Beans: While you don’t necessarily have to soak your dried beans overnight, doing so will speed up the cooking process and ensure your beans cook more evenly. If you’re in a rush, you can also do a quick soak by boiling the beans for 2 minutes, then letting them sit covered for 1 hour.
Use Vegetable Broth for Extra Flavor: While water will work just fine, vegetable broth will add a deeper flavor to the soup. It will enhance the taste of the beans and vegetables, making the soup extra savory.
Add Smoked Meat for Extra Depth: If you’re not strictly vegetarian, smoked ham hocks or bacon can add a rich, smoky flavor to the soup. Add them in early so they have time to infuse the broth with their flavor.
Don’t Skip the Herbs: Fresh thyme, bay leaves, and parsley bring incredible aromatic notes to the soup. Don’t forget to add them early, as they need time to release their flavors into the broth.
Simmer Low and Slow: For the best flavor, let your soup simmer on low heat for a couple of hours. This allows the beans to become tender and the broth to fully develop its rich taste.

Ingredients for this 15 Bean Soup

This 15 Bean Soup is packed with a variety of beans, vegetables, and seasonings that come together to create a rich, hearty dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 bag of 15 bean soup mix (usually contains a variety of beans such as pinto, kidney, navy, and lima beans)
6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth if not vegan/vegetarian)
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 teaspoon dried thyme
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
1-2 smoked ham hocks or bacon (optional for added flavor, or vegan-friendly substitute with liquid smoke)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, but adds a nice touch of acidity to balance the flavors)

Step 1: Rinse and Soak the Beans

Begin by sorting through the 15 bean mix to remove any debris or damaged beans. Once they’re sorted, rinse them thoroughly under cold water using a colander. If you have time, soak the beans overnight in a large bowl with enough water to cover them by about 2 inches. If you’re short on time, you can use the quick soak method: bring the beans to a boil in a large pot of water, then remove from heat, cover, and let them sit for about an hour.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large stock pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Beans and Broth

Once the vegetables are softened, add the rinsed (and soaked) beans to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth. If you’re adding a smoked ham hock or bacon for extra flavor, now is the time to add it in. Stir everything together, ensuring the beans are fully submerged in the broth.

Step 4: Season the Soup

Add the dried thyme, bay leaves, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed throughout the broth. Bring the soup to a boil over high heat.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

Once the soup comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally and check for doneness. The beans should be tender, and the broth should have thickened slightly. If you find the soup too thick, you can add more vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Add the Tomatoes and Final Seasoning

About 15 minutes before serving, add the can of diced tomatoes (with juice) to the soup. Stir to combine and let it simmer for the remaining time. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or paprika to your preference.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Once the soup is ready and the beans are tender, remove the bay leaves and any large pieces of smoked meat (if using). Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a drizzle of lemon juice for a touch of brightness.

Notes

Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier soup, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño during the sauté phase. This will give the soup an extra kick without overwhelming the other flavors.
Beans Can Vary: Since 15 bean mixes often include a variety of beans with different cooking times, some beans may cook faster than others. Make sure to taste-test toward the end of cooking to ensure all the beans are tender and the soup has the right consistency.
Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian or vegan version, omit the ham hock or bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can still achieve a rich flavor by adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that smoky depth.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Skipping the Soaking Step: Although it’s not strictly necessary, skipping the soaking step can result in longer cooking times and potentially unevenly cooked beans. Soaking helps soften the beans and reduces the risk of them remaining hard even after long simmering.
Not Skimming the Foam: When you first bring the beans to a boil, you may notice some foam forming at the top. It’s a good idea to skim this off before reducing the heat, as it can affect the texture of the soup and create a slightly bitter flavor.
Overcrowding the Pot: If you’re making a double batch or using an extra-large pot, be mindful not to overcrowd it. If the beans aren’t fully submerged or if the pot is too small, the soup may not cook evenly. Consider using a larger pot if you’re doubling the recipe.
Not Tasting During Cooking: As the soup simmers, flavors can change. Always taste your soup during the cooking process and adjust the seasoning as needed. If the soup is too bland, it may need more salt or herbs, and if it’s too rich, a squeeze of lemon can brighten things up.
Ignoring the Resting Time: After cooking, let the soup rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to continue to meld together, resulting in a more flavorful and balanced soup.

What to Serve with 15 Bean Soup?

This hearty, flavorful soup can be enjoyed with a variety of side dishes to complement its rich, savory profile. Here are some great options to serve alongside 15 Bean Soup:

1. Crusty Bread

A warm, crusty loaf of bread is always a perfect pairing with soup. It’s great for dipping into the broth and adds a satisfying crunch to each bite. Consider a baguette or sourdough for an extra tangy flavor.

2. Grilled Cheese Sandwich

A classic choice, the crispy and melty grilled cheese sandwich complements the soup’s savory flavors wonderfully. The combination of gooey cheese and crisp bread adds texture and richness.

3. Simple Green Salad

A fresh, light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette will balance the hearty nature of the soup. The acidity of the dressing can help cut through the richness of the beans and broth.

4. Cornbread

Cornbread adds a slightly sweet contrast to the savory, smoky beans. The light crumb and buttery flavor of cornbread create a perfect contrast, making it a favorite choice to serve alongside.

5. Roasted Vegetables

Oven-roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes bring out natural sweetness and earthy flavors that complement the soup’s richness.

6. Pickled Vegetables

Pickled vegetables, such as pickles or pickled onions, provide a tangy contrast that helps balance the rich, smoky taste of the soup. The acidity offers a refreshing bite between spoonfuls.

7. Rice

For a filling and comforting option, serve the soup with a side of fluffy rice. It’s simple, and the rice soaks up the broth beautifully.

8. Steamed Greens

A side of steamed greens, like spinach, kale, or collard greens, adds freshness and nutrients to your meal. The slight bitterness of the greens works nicely with the earthy beans in the soup.

Storage Instructions

15 Bean Soup is perfect for leftovers and can be stored for a few days in the fridge or even frozen for future meals.

In the Refrigerator: Store your soup in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before transferring it to the container.
In the Freezer: If you have extra soup, freeze it in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. It will last for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave some space at the top of the container, as the soup may expand when frozen.
Thawing Frozen Soup: To thaw, simply place the frozen soup in the fridge overnight or reheat it directly from frozen in a pot on low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a little extra broth or water if it’s too thick after freezing.

Reheating Instructions

Stovetop: Reheat the soup over low to medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally. Add extra broth or water if necessary to adjust the consistency. Allow it to simmer for 10-15 minutes or until hot.
Microwave: If reheating a single serving, microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Add a little water or broth to loosen up the soup if it has thickened too much.

Estimated Nutrition

Each serving of 15 Bean Soup is hearty and packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins. Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving (about 1 cup):

Calories: 250-300
Protein: 15-20g
Fiber: 10-12g
Fat: 3-5g
Carbohydrates: 40-45g
Sodium: 500-700mg (can vary depending on broth and added salt)
Vitamin A: 20% of Daily Value
Vitamin C: 10% of Daily Value
Iron: 15% of Daily Value

The soup is also a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, making it a satisfying meal on its own or as part of a larger meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make 15 Bean Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! If you prefer to use a slow cooker, simply sauté the vegetables and garlic as directed, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Add the beans, broth, and seasonings and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beans are tender.

2. Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Absolutely! This soup is very versatile. Feel free to add additional vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just make sure to chop them small and add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent them from getting too soft.

3. What if I don’t have 15 Bean Mix?

If you don’t have the 15 bean mix, you can make a similar soup using a combination of beans like black beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, and navy beans. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time for different types of beans, as some will cook faster than others.

4. Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Yes! This 15 Bean Soup is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free broth and avoid adding any ingredients that contain gluten. It’s a great option for those following a gluten-free diet.

5. How can I make this soup spicier?

To add some heat to the soup, you can include chopped jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a teaspoon of hot sauce. Adjust the spice level to your liking by adding small amounts at a time.

6. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup is perfect for meal prep! In fact, it often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld. Make a big batch and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze for later.

7. What can I serve this soup with besides bread?

Aside from bread, you can pair this soup with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or even cornbread. It’s hearty enough to be a stand-alone meal but also goes great with lighter sides.

8. How can I make this soup more creamy?

For a creamier texture, you can puree a portion of the soup with an immersion blender or regular blender. Just scoop out a couple of cups of the beans and broth, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot to thicken the soup.

Conclusion

15 Bean Soup is a warm, nourishing dish that’s perfect for cold days or any time you want a comforting, filling meal. With its rich flavors, hearty texture, and endless customization options, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re enjoying it with some crusty bread or pairing it with a fresh salad, this soup offers a complete meal that’s satisfying and packed with nutrients.

Don’t forget that this recipe is also highly versatile. You can make it vegan, add different vegetables, or adjust the spice level to suit your tastes. Plus, it’s easy to make in large batches and store for later, making it a convenient and healthy option for meal prepping. So go ahead, whip up a pot of 15 Bean Soup, and enjoy the delicious results!