As the temperature drops and the days become shorter, there’s no better way to warm up than with a piping hot bowl of five-bean soup. Whether you’re serving it as your main course or as an appetizer, this hearty dish is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. Here’s everything you need to know about making the perfect five-bean soup.
Contents
Ingredients
The beauty of this dish is that you can customize it as much as you like. The base of the soup is five types of beans, but you can easily swap out one for another to suit your taste. The most popular combination is:
| Bean | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cannellini beans | 1 can |
| Lima beans | 1 can |
| Great Northern beans | 1 can |
| Chickpeas | 1 can |
| Black beans | 1 can |
In addition to the beans, you’ll also need some onion, garlic, celery, carrots, olive oil, and vegetable broth. You can also add whatever spices you like, such as cumin, paprika, oregano, and chili powder.
Instructions
Making five-bean soup is surprisingly easy. Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrots and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
Stir in the beans, vegetable broth, and all of your desired spices. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 20 minutes. Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed.
Now it’s time to get creative! You can add whatever vegetables you like, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or potatoes. You can also add some cooked ground beef or sausage for an extra protein boost. Simmer for another 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are cooked through.
Serving Suggestions
Five-bean soup is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of crusty bread or a green salad. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a nice tangy contrast to the soup. If you want to make it a bit more filling, serve it over cooked rice or quinoa.
Storage
Leftover five-bean soup will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It also freezes well, so you can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Five-bean soup is the perfect way to warm up on a chilly day. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a hearty and flavorful soup in no time. So grab your pot and get cooking! You’ll be singing “Beans, beans, the magical fruit, the more you eat, the more you’ll toot!” in no time.
