Description
This hearty and flavorful 15 Bean Soup is a comforting one-pot meal that’s loaded with protein, fiber, and a rich blend of spices. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep, as it tastes even better the next day. Made with a mix of beans, aromatic vegetables, and optional meat, this soup is adaptable for any dietary preference.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 (20 oz) package of 15-bean mix (such as Hurst’s HamBeens), rinsed and sorted
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juice
- 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 cup water (optional, for a thinner soup)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Soak the beans:
- If soaking overnight: Place the beans in a large bowl and cover with water. Let soak for 8-12 hours, then drain and rinse.
- If using the quick soak method: Boil the beans in a large pot of water for 1 minute, then remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 1 hour. Drain and rinse.
- Sauté the aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
- Combine and cook:
- Add the soaked beans, diced tomatoes (with juice), chicken broth, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, oregano, bay leaf, and black pepper. Stir well.
- Simmer the soup:
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 1.5-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender.
- Add protein (optional):
- If using ham, stir in the cooked ham in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Taste and adjust:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or spices as needed.
- Serve:
- Remove the bay leaf and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- For a vegetarian or vegan version, skip the ham and use vegetable broth.
- Add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar at the end for a bright finish.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.