Hearty Homemade 15 Bean Soup

Hearty 15 Bean Soup Recipe Easy Comfort Food

Recipe Introduction: The Ultimate Comfort Food

Fancy a bowl of something properly warming? Ever wonder what to do with all those random bags of beans hiding at the back of your cupboard? Our 15 bean soup recipe is the answer.

It's hearty, flavorful, and seriously budget friendly. This is more than food; it's a hug in a bowl.

A Bit About This Brilliant Bean Soup

This homemade bean soup is rooted in good ol' American comfort food. Perfect for those chilly British evenings. It's surprisingly easy to make, even if you’re not a whiz in the kitchen.

Give yourself about 20 minutes for prep and 3- 4 hours for simmering. This recipe makes enough to feed a small army (8-10 servings), or have leftovers for days.

Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Soup

Honestly, the best 15 bean soup isn't just delicious; it's secretly good for you. Packed with fiber and protein, it’s a nutritional powerhouse.

I particularly love that you can adapt it according to what’s in your cupboards. It's perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, or a hearty lunch.

Plus, it makes your kitchen smell amazing! What makes this easy 15 bean soup so great? It's the depth of flavor you get from the variety of beans and the smoky goodness of the ham.

Getting Started: What You'll Need

To make the 15 bean soup recipe , you'll need a pound of dried 15 bean mix . Plus, a few basic veggies, some chicken broth, and optional ham hock.

You can always go vegetarian and use vegetable broth instead. For a richer flavour, consider ham hock and bean soup recipes .

For cooking, you'll need a big pot, chopping board, knife, measuring bits and bobs and a wooden spoon. Easy peasy! A top tip is to soak the beans in 8 cups of water the night before, it makes all the difference to make them tender, which helps on the 15 bean soup crock pot recipe and also if you make a 15 bean soup instant pot .

I have my crock pot bean soup recipes that I use and they're all very similar.

Alright, let's talk about what you'll need to make this incredible 15 bean soup recipe . Honestly, it's all pretty straightforward stuff. Anyone can do this.

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Sorted!

So, you're thinking about tackling this amazing 15 Bean Soup Crock Pot Recipe ? Cracking choice! Before you dive in, let's make sure you've got all your bits and bobs ready.

Trust me, being organized makes life so much easier.

Main Ingredients

Right, here's what you need. Don't skimp on the quality where it really matters.

  • 1 pound (450g) dried 15 bean mix: Look for a mix that seems fresh. Avoid dusty looking bags.
  • 8 cups (1.9 liters) water: For soaking those cheeky beans.
  • 8 cups (1.9 liters) chicken broth (or vegetable broth for the Vegetarian 15 Bean Soup Recipe option): Go for a good quality broth. It does make a difference.
  • 2 cups (475ml) water: Just a little extra for simmering.
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil: Standard stuff.
  • 1 large onion, chopped: Brown onions are usually best here
  • 2 carrots, peeled and diced: Choose firm ones, not bendy.
  • 2 celery stalks, diced: Give them a good wash first!
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh is always better!
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a lovely herby depth.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic in soups.
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: A must for that smoky flavour.
  • 1 bay leaf: Don't forget to take it out later.
  • 1 ham hock (about 1 pound/450g ): The star of the show! If you're going down the Bean Ham Soup route, you'll need this! A good one will be firm and have a good amount of meat on it. Smoked sausage is a good substitute too.
  • 1 (14.5 ounce/411g) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Tinned tomatoes are a lifesaver.
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste, of course.
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) cider vinegar: Added at the very end. It brings a brightness to this Homemade Bean Soup .

Seasoning Notes

This is where you can really play around and put your own stamp on things.

  • Essential spice combinations: Thyme, oregano, and smoked paprika are key for that classic ham hock and bean soup recipes vibe.
  • Flavor enhancers and aromatics: Garlic and onions are non-negotiable.
  • Quick substitution options: If you don't have smoked paprika, a pinch of regular paprika and a dash of smoked salt will do in a pinch.

Equipment Needed

Nothing fancy needed here. Just the basics.

  • Large stockpot or Dutch oven: Something with a good heavy bottom.
  • Cutting board: Self explanatory, really.
  • Chef's knife: A decent knife makes all the difference.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: For accuracy, of course.
  • Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring and scraping.

Honestly, this easy 15 bean soup is so forgiving. Don't stress too much about getting everything perfect . Just get stuck in and have a go! It is also possible to create an 15 Bean Soup Instant Pot , in the same way the Crock Pot Bean Soup Recipes are made.

But don't forget, it's all about having a bit of fun in the kitchen.

Let's Get Cooking: Hearty Homemade 15 Bean Soup Recipe

Honestly, there's nothing quite like a steaming bowl of homemade bean soup on a chilly evening. It is a proper hug in a bowl, innit? This 15 bean soup recipe is proper easy.

This Easy 15 Bean Soup is the dish that'll warm you right up. I remember my Nan used to make something similar, and the whole house would smell amazing.

Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place Magic

First things first, the dreaded prep! Don’t skip this. Rinse 1 pound (450g) of that 15 bean mix . Get rid of any rogue stones.

Dice up 1 large onion , 2 carrots , and 2 celery stalks . Mince 2 cloves of garlic . Measure out your spices and broth.

Boom! You're now officially a cooking ninja. This soup is a great way to use up odds and ends. A Ham Hock And Bean Soup Recipes is a super easy option.

step-by-step to Bean Soup Bliss

  1. Soak Those Beans: Rinse the beans well. Cover them with 8 cups of cold water. Let them sit for at least 8 hours , or overnight. Drain and rinse them again.
  2. Sauté the Goodness: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5- 7 minutes till softened. Chuck in the garlic, 1 teaspoon of thyme, 1 teaspoon of oregano, and ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika. Cook for a minute till it smells awesome.
  3. Combine and Conquer: Add the drained beans, 8 cups of chicken broth, 2 cups water, the ham hock (if you're using it), 1 can of diced tomatoes, and 1 bay leaf .
  4. Simmer, Simmer, Simmer: Bring it all to a boil. Then, reduce the heat and simmer for 3- 4 hours , until the beans are tender. Stir it now and then to stop it sticking.
  5. Shred the Hock (if you got it): Take the ham hock out. When it’s cool enough to handle, shred the meat. Get rid of the bone and put the meat back in the pot. This makes an amazing Bean Ham Soup .
  6. Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper. Stir in 1 tablespoon of cider vinegar. Take out the bay leaf. Serve this incredible Homemade Bean Soup .

Pro Tips for Proper Bean Soup

Want to take your Crock Pot Bean Soup Recipes skills to the next level? Soaking the beans is key. Don't skip it unless you want, well, you know.

If the soup gets too thick, just add more broth or water. Don't salt too early because it toughens the beans.

Add it at the end. You can even use your Instant Pot as one of the 15 Bean Soup Instant Pot .

You can make the soup a day ahead. Honestly, it tastes even better the next day. Also, a 15 Bean Soup Crock Pot Recipe is a great idea! I like mine with a bit of crusty bread.

Perfect for dipping.

Recipe Notes: Making Your 15 Bean Soup Recipe Sing!

Right, so you're diving into this 15 bean soup recipe ? Ace! Honestly, it's dead simple. But there's a few bits and bobs to keep in mind to make it truly stellar.

Little tweaks can turn this into your go-to Crock Pot Bean Soup Recipes , or even the Best 15 Bean Soup your mates have ever had.

Let's have a quick run down.

Plating and Presentation: More Than Just a Bowlful!

Listen, we all eat with our eyes first, innit? Think about a swirl of cream, or a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Even a hunk of crusty bread on the side makes it look posh. My nan always said, "Presentation is everything, duck!" Don't forget the crackers, they are amazing!.

To drink? A crisp white wine, or even a sparkling apple cider, cuts through the richness nicely. And some folks even enjoy a light beer!

Storage Secrets: Keepin' it Fresh

Got leftovers? Winner! This soup is amazing the next day. For the fridge, get it cooled down quickly, and stick it in an airtight container.

It'll happily sit there for 3-4 days .

Fancy freezing it? No worries! Portion it out into freezer bags or containers. It'll keep for up to 3 months .

To reheat, just thaw it overnight in the fridge, then gently heat it on the hob, stirring now and then.

Oh, and reheat until piping hot , you know?

Variations: Mix It Up, Buttercup!

Feeling adventurous? Why not try a Vegetarian 15 Bean Soup Recipe ? Just ditch the ham hock and use vegetable broth. Boom! Done!

Or, fancy some spice? Throw in a chopped chili or some smoked paprika . You could adapt the recipe to become Bean Ham Soup , adding some chunks of gammon!.

Nutrition Nuggets: Goodness in a Bowl

This Easy 15 Bean Soup is packed with fibre. I'm talking seriously good for your gut. Loads of plant based protein, too! It's proper comfort food that's actually good for you.

Think of it as a hug from the inside. It's a great way to get your Soup Recipes Beans in.

Right, go on then! Get stuck in and make this 15 Bean Soup Crock Pot Recipe your own. You got this! Who knows?, it will be the Homemade Bean Soup that will make you the star.

Good luck, and happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I really have to soak the beans before making 15 bean soup recipe? It's a right faff!

Yes, soaking the beans is highly recommended! It helps them cook more evenly, reduces cooking time, and makes them easier to digest (less of the… ahem… musical fruit effect!). Think of it as an overnight spa treatment for your beans, prepping them for their starring role.

If you're short on time, you can try a quick soak method boil the beans for 2 minutes, then let them sit for an hour.

My 15 bean soup is too thick! How do I thin it out without ruining the flavour?

No worries, that's easily fixed! Just add more chicken or vegetable broth, or even plain water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Stir it in well and let it simmer for a few minutes to let the flavours meld. Avoid adding too much at once, or you might end up with a soup that's a bit bland.

Can I make this 15 bean soup recipe in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Absolutely! For a slow cooker, sauté the aromatics first, then combine all ingredients (except the cider vinegar) in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

For an Instant Pot, sauté the aromatics, add the remaining ingredients (except cider vinegar) and cook on high pressure for 25-30 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release. Stir in the vinegar right before serving in both cases.

I'm vegetarian, but I want that smoky flavour. How can I make this 15 bean soup recipe vegetarian friendly?

No problem at all! Simply omit the ham hock and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. To get that lovely smoky flavour, add 1-2 teaspoons of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke. You could even add a few smoked sun-dried tomatoes to the soup for an extra layer of flavour. A little goes a long way!

How long does 15 bean soup last, and what's the best way to store it?

Properly stored, 15 bean soup will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Hearty Homemade 15 Bean Soup

Hearty 15 Bean Soup Recipe Easy Comfort Food Recipe Card
0.0 / 5 (0 Review)
Preparation time:20 Mins
Cooking time:03 Hrs 30 Mins
Servings:8-10 servings

Ingredients:

Instructions:

Nutrition Facts:

Calories400
Fat7.5g
Fiber17.5g

Recipe Info:

CategorySoup
CuisineAmerican

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