There’s something about a warm bowl of soup that just makes everything feel right in the world, don’t you think? I absolutely adore my Hearty 3 Bean Soup – it’s like a warm hug on a chilly day! This recipe holds a special place in my heart; I vividly remember making it for the first time during a camping trip with friends. We had just gotten caught in a downpour and desperately needed something comforting. I whipped this up using a camping stove, and let me tell you, it was a hit! It warmed our souls and our bellies while we shared stories by the fire.
What makes this soup unique is not just the delightful combination of three different beans—black, kidney, and pinto—but also all those colorful veggies that add a fresh crunch! Plus, it’s the epitome of comfort food that is surprisingly healthy without sacrificing any of that glorious flavor.
What’s in Hearty 3 Bean Soup?
Now let’s chat a bit about the stars of this recipe. Each ingredient plays its own essential role, making the soup a savory delight.
Dried Black Beans: These little powerhouses are not only tasty but also packed with protein and fiber. I love using dried beans because they give the soup a remarkable depth of flavor.
Dried Kidney Beans: With their beautiful color and creamy texture, kidney beans add heartiness to this dish. Just make sure to cook them thoroughly since they can be a bit toxic if undercooked!
Dried Pinto Beans: Pinto beans add a lovely creaminess as they cook. They blend beautifully with the other beans, giving a perfect mix of flavors.
Vegetable Broth: This is the soul of the soup! A good-quality vegetable broth adds richness and depth. I usually opt for a low-sodium kind to control the saltiness.
Onion and Garlic: A classic duo that creates the base of many great dishes! They add a lovely aromatic flavor that fills the kitchen with warmth.
Carrots and Celery: These veggies not only add some color but also a lovely crunch and sweetness. They’re such a classic combo in soups!
Yellow Squash: I love the addition of yellow squash for a pop of color and its mild flavor. It adds a delightful creaminess without overwhelming the soup.
Canned Diced Tomatoes: These add a bit of acidity and sweetness, creating a perfect balance with the richness of the beans.
Spices (Cumin, Thyme, Paprika): These spices elevate the dish with their aromatic qualities. Cumin adds warmth, thyme brings a hint of earthiness, and paprika gives just a touch of smokiness.
Olive Oil: A little drizzle for sautéing veggies, enhancing the flavors beautifully!
Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out the best in your soup.
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley on top not only looks gorgeous but adds a fresh finish that brightens the flavors.
Is Hearty 3 Bean Soup Good for You?
Let’s talk benefits! This delicious soup is loaded with good-for-you ingredients.
– **Protein-Packed Beans:** The mix of black, kidney, and pinto beans provides a healthy dose of plant-based protein, perfect for keeping you full and satisfied.
– **Vitamins and Minerals:** With all those veggies, you get a range of vitamins and minerals – particularly from carrots (great for vision!) and squash (rich in vitamins A and C).
– **Fiber-Rich:** Muscling through a large bowl of this soup will definitely up your fiber intake, promoting good digestion.
– **Heart-Healthy:** Olive oil and beans can contribute to heart health, making this not just tasty but also a smart choice.
However, the only consideration is to ensure the dried beans are properly cooked, as undercooked beans can be harmful.
Ingredients List
This recipe makes a hearty serving for about 6-8 people, perfect for a gathering or for meal prepping throughout the week! Here’s what you’ll need:
– 1 cup dried black beans
– 1 cup dried kidney beans
– 1 cup dried pinto beans
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery sticks, diced
– 1 medium yellow squash, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Hearty 3 Bean Soup?
Get ready to enjoy some wonderful aromas as you prepare this soup! Here’s how to whip it up:
1. Rinse and soak the dried beans in water overnight or for at least 6-8 hours. After soaking, drain and set them aside.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced carrots and celery, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until softened.
4. Add the diced yellow squash to the pot and let it cook for about 3 more minutes.
5. Now, toss in the soaked beans, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), cumin, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally and feel free to add more broth or water if it looks too thick.
7. Taste midway and adjust the seasonings as needed – it’s your soup after all!
8. Serve hot and don’t forget to garnish with fresh chopped parsley if you desire. Enjoy every spoonful!
Serve it Up! A Few Tips and Tricks
If you’re looking for ways to enjoy your soup even more, I’ve got you covered!
– **Serve with Crusty Bread:** A warm loaf of fresh bread is perfect for dipping into this hearty soup and soaking up all that flavor.
– **Spice it Up:** If you like a little kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
– **Top with Cheese:** A sprinkle of shredded cheese can add a rich creaminess that contrasts nicely with the dish.
– **Make It Ahead:** This soup actually tastes better the next day, as the flavors meld together beautifully! It’s great for meal prep.
So, my friend, I really hope you give this Hearty 3 Bean Soup a try! Let me know how it turns out; I would love to hear about your cozy cooking sessions and possible kitchen shenanigans. Happy cooking!
