Are you ready to dive into a hearty, flavorful bowl of 15 bean soup? This isn't your average, run-of-the-mill bean soup; we're talking about a culinary masterpiece packed with fifteen different types of beans, a symphony of textures, and a depth of flavor that will warm your soul. This comprehensive guide will walk you through creating this incredible soup, addressing common questions and offering tips for ultimate success.
What Beans Go in 15 Bean Soup?
The beauty of 15 bean soup lies in its variety. While the exact combination can vary depending on availability and personal preference, here's a typical blend you can expect to find: kidney beans, pinto beans, black beans, navy beans, great northern beans, lima beans, small red beans, black-eyed peas, cranberry beans, cannellini beans, butter beans, white beans, chickpeas, and possibly a couple more depending on the recipe. The key is to aim for a mix of colors, sizes, and textures for a truly satisfying experience.
How Long Does it Take to Make 15 Bean Soup?
The cooking time for 15 bean soup depends largely on whether you're using dried beans or canned beans. Dried beans require a significantly longer cooking time—often several hours, or even overnight soaking—to achieve optimal tenderness. Canned beans, however, offer a much quicker cooking time, usually around 30-45 minutes. We will focus on a recipe using dried beans for the most authentic and flavorful experience.
What are the Ingredients for 15 Bean Soup?
Beyond the beans themselves, a truly exceptional 15 bean soup relies on a carefully balanced blend of other ingredients. This generally includes:
- Aromatic Vegetables: Onions, carrots, celery (the holy trinity of soup!), garlic, and sometimes bell peppers form the flavorful base.
- Broth: Chicken broth or vegetable broth adds depth and richness.
- Spices: A blend of spices such as cumin, chili powder, oregano, bay leaf, and smoked paprika contribute complex flavors.
- Ham Hock or Smoked Sausage (optional): For a richer, more savory soup, adding a ham hock or smoked sausage significantly elevates the taste.
- Tomato Products: Diced tomatoes or tomato paste provide acidity and sweetness to balance the other flavors.
How to Make 15 Bean Soup from Scratch (using dried beans)
This recipe will guide you through making 15 bean soup from scratch using dried beans for the most intense flavor.
Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus soaking time) Cook Time: 3-4 hours Serves: 6-8
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of each of your chosen 15 bean varieties (dried, sorted, and rinsed)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 lb ham hock or smoked sausage
Instructions:
- Soak the beans: Soak the beans in plenty of water overnight (at least 8 hours) or use the quick-soak method (boil for 2 minutes, then let sit for 1 hour). This helps reduce cooking time and improves digestibility.
- Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened (about 5-7 minutes). Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Bloom the spices: Add cumin, chili powder, oregano, bay leaf, and smoked paprika to the pot and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to release their aromas.
- Add the beans and broth: Drain the soaked beans and add them to the pot along with the crushed tomatoes and broth. If using a ham hock or sausage, add it now.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 3-4 hours, or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally.
- Season and serve: Remove the ham hock (if using) and shred the meat, returning it to the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Can I Use Canned Beans for 15 Bean Soup?
Yes, absolutely! Using canned beans drastically reduces the cooking time. Simply omit the soaking and initial simmering steps, adding the drained canned beans during step 4. Reduce the cooking time to about 30-45 minutes, or until heated through and the flavors have melded.
What to Serve with 15 Bean Soup?
This hearty soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread for dipping, cornbread, or a simple green salad to balance the richness.
How to Store Leftover 15 Bean Soup?
Store leftover 15 bean soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well; allow it to cool completely before freezing in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
This comprehensive guide provides a solid foundation for creating your own delicious 15 bean soup. Remember to experiment with different bean combinations and spices to find your perfect blend. Enjoy!
