There’s something incredibly comforting about a steaming bowl of soup, and when it comes to wholesome and hearty dishes, few can rival the rich and satisfying experience of a 15 Bean Soup. This classic American recipe is perfect for chilly evenings or as a nourishing meal that brings a smile to everyone’s face.
With its medley of beans, aromatic vegetables, and a deeply flavorful broth, this soup is not just a meal—it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing a batch to enjoy throughout the week, this 15 Bean Soup is a delicious and fulfilling choice.
Ingredients
- 15 Bean Soup Mixture: 10 ounces
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Yellow Onion: 1 large, diced
- Celery: 3 ribs, chopped
- Smoked Sausage: 1 lb, sliced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Smoked Paprika: 2 teaspoons
- Ground Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon
- Dried Marjoram (or oregano): 1 teaspoon
- Ground Cayenne Pepper: ¼ teaspoon
- Low Sodium Chicken Broth (or vegetable broth): 6 cups
- Fire Roasted Diced Tomatoes: 1 can (15 ounces)
- Carrots: 4, peeled and chopped
- Bay Leaf: 1
- Kosher Salt and Fresh Ground Black Pepper: to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Beans: Start by rinsing the 15 bean mixture in a colander under cold water. Sort through the beans, removing any debris. Transfer the beans to a large pot, cover with cold water, and let them soak overnight or for at least 8 hours. After soaking, drain and rinse the beans thoroughly.
- Cook the Vegetables and Sausage: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion, chopped celery, and sliced smoked sausage. Sauté until the onion and celery become tender and the sausage is nicely browned.
- Season the Base: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground chili powder, dried thyme, dried marjoram (or oregano), and ground cayenne pepper. Cook the mixture for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. If the mixture appears too dry, add an additional tablespoon of olive oil.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the soaked beans, chicken broth, fire roasted diced tomatoes, chopped carrots, and bay leaf to the pot. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the soup to a low boil.
- Simmer to Perfection: Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer until the beans and carrots are tender, about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Taste and adjust seasoning with kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper as desired. Remember to remove the bay leaf before serving, as it has sharp edges.
Notes
- Advance Preparation: Remember to soak the beans overnight for the best texture and flavor. This step is crucial for achieving the creamy consistency that defines a great bean soup.
- Bean Mix: The 15 bean soup mix is readily available in grocery stores, often found alongside other dried beans. You only need half the bag for this recipe, so save the rest for another delicious batch. Discard any included seasoning packets, as the herbs and spices in this recipe provide all the flavor you need.
- Carrot Aesthetics: For a vibrant appearance, peel the carrots to highlight their beautiful orange color.
- Herb Substitutions: If marjoram isn’t available, oregano can be used as a substitute. However, marjoram adds a milder, sweeter flavor with a woodsy citrus note that enhances the soup’s depth.
- Alternative Meats: If preferred, ham hocks, ham shanks, or ham bones can replace the smoked sausage. These alternatives require a longer cooking time and no browning. Add them with the broth, and after simmering for about 2 hours, incorporate the carrots. Remove the ham, shred the meat, and discard the bones and fat before serving.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in a heavy-duty freezer bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
Conclusion
This Hearty 15 Bean Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a testament to the comfort of home cooking. Packed with a variety of beans, fresh vegetables, and savory spices, it delivers a deliciously satisfying experience in every spoonful. Whether enjoyed on a cozy night in or served as a hearty dish for a gathering, this soup is sure to become a cherished recipe in your kitchen.
Pair it with a batch of warm corn muffins, and you have a meal that’s both nourishing and delightfully indulgent. Enjoy the flavors of this timeless dish and savor the comfort it brings with each serving.
Source of the picture : smalltownwoman.
