15 Bean Soup Recipe

15 Bean Soup is a wholesome, hearty meal that’s perfect for chilly days or any time you’re craving something comforting. Made with a blend of 15 different beans, this soup has a rich, smoky flavor and is highly customizable. It’s a fantastic way to feed a crowd, using simple pantry ingredients and simmering everything together until tender and flavorful. Great for meal prepping or freezing, this soup is a delicious, budget-friendly dish that you’ll want to make again and again.

Equipment:

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or ladle
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients:

• 1 package (16 oz) 15-bean mix (usually found in the dried beans section)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with liquid)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 ham hock, smoked sausage, or 1 lb diced ham (optional, for smoky flavor)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Soak the Beans
   Rinse the beans and discard any debris. Place the beans in a large bowl, cover with water, and soak for at least 6-8 hours or overnight. Drain and rinse before cooking.
2. Sauté Vegetables
   In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté for 5-6 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add Beans and Liquids
   Add the soaked beans, diced tomatoes with their liquid, tomato paste, and broth to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Add Seasonings and Meat
   Stir in the smoked paprika, cumin, and bay leaf. Add the ham hock, sausage, or diced ham if using. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
5. Adjust Seasoning
   Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. For a thicker texture, use the back of a spoon to mash some of the beans against the side of the pot.
6. Serve
   Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or green onions. Enjoy with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad.

Presentation Ideas:

• Serve in rustic bowls with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color.
• Accompany with cornbread or a crusty baguette for a comforting meal.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for extra creaminess.

Tips:

• Add more broth if the soup thickens too much during cooking.
• For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• This soup freezes well; allow it to cool, then portion into containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
• You can add extra vegetables like carrots or zucchini for more flavor and nutrients.

15 Bean Soup is a cozy, satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. With tender beans, savory spices, and optional smoky ham, it’s the perfect dish for cold days or when you need a comforting bowl of soup. This recipe is versatile, budget-friendly, and ideal for meal prep, making it a must-have in your recipe collection.