Why You’ll Love This Spanish Bean Soup Recipe
When you plunge into this Spanish Bean Soup recipe, you’ll quickly discover why it’s a favorite in my kitchen. The rich blend of spices and wholesome ingredients creates a comforting dish that warms both body and soul.
I love how it’s incredibly versatile; you can easily adapt it to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep, as it tastes even better the next day!
Each spoonful is a delightful journey through flavors, making it a go-to for cozy nights or gatherings. Trust me, you’ll want to make this soup again and again!
Ingredients of Spanish Bean Soup
When it comes to whipping up a comforting dish, the ingredients for Spanish Bean Soup play a crucial role in creating that rich, hearty flavor. You might be surprised at how many wholesome goodies come together to make this soup a real crowd-pleaser.
Trust me, once you have these ingredients in your kitchen, you’ll be tempted to make this soup again and again. And if you’re anything like me, you might find yourself rummaging through your pantry, hoping you have everything on hand. Spoiler alert: you probably do!
Here’s what you’ll need to make your very own Spanish Bean Soup:
- 1 cup dried beans (like pinto or black beans)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color will do)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
Now, before you start throwing everything into a pot, let’s chat about some ingredient considerations. First off, dried beans are the star of the show, but if you’re in a pinch, canned beans work too—just rinse them off and toss them in.
And if you want to pack in more nutrients, feel free to add in some extra veggies, like zucchini or spinach. Don’t be shy! The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. You can play around with spices as well; if you love heat, throw in some red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce.
Just remember, cooking is all about experimenting and making it your own. So, gather these ingredients and get ready for a delightful cooking adventure!
How to Make Spanish Bean Soup
Alright, let’s explore the delightful world of making Spanish Bean Soup. First things first, you need to start by preparing your 1 cup of dried beans. If you’re like me and sometimes forget to soak them overnight, don’t panic! You can do a quick soak by boiling them for about 5 minutes and then letting them sit for an hour.
Once your beans are ready, it’s time to get that pot sizzling with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add your chopped onion, and let it sauté until it’s soft and translucent—this usually takes about 5 minutes. As the aroma of the onion fills your kitchen, you might just find yourself daydreaming about cozy evenings ahead.
Next up, let’s add in those flavor-packed ingredients. Toss in the 3 cloves of minced garlic, along with 2 diced carrots, 2 diced celery stalks, and 1 diced bell pepper. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 5 minutes, allowing those veggies to soften and mingle.
Now, here comes the fun part: add the can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz) along with 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth. Oh, and don’t forget the spices! Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and 1 teaspoon of oregano. Stir it all together, and let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the beans are tender. You’ll want to keep an eye on it, maybe even taste it along the way. Is it too bland? A pinch of salt and pepper can do wonders.
While your soup is bubbling away, you might want to think about your garnish. Fresh cilantro or parsley adds that perfect pop of color and freshness.
Once everything is cooked to perfection, ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle some herbs on top. Take a moment to appreciate your creation. You’ve just made Spanish Bean Soup, and trust me, your taste buds are in for a treat.
Spanish Bean Soup Substitutions & Variations
While crafting your Spanish Bean Soup, don’t feel boxed in by the ingredients—there are plenty of substitutions and variations to explore.
For instance, if you don’t have pinto beans, black beans work beautifully, too. You can swap out chorizo for turkey sausage or even leave it out for a vegetarian option.
Adding kale or spinach can boost the nutrition, while smoked paprika brings a deeper flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, toss in a diced jalapeño.
Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or parsley to personalize your soup. Get creative, and make it your own!
What to Serve with Spanish Bean Soup
To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing Spanish Bean Soup with complementary sides that enhance its rich flavors.
I love serving it alongside crusty bread or warm tortillas, perfect for dipping. A light, invigorating salad with citrus vinaigrette adds a nice contrast, balancing the soup’s heartiness.
You might also enjoy some grilled vegetables or a simple avocado salad for added texture. For a special touch, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro can bring out the soup’s spices beautifully.
These sides not only complement the soup but also make for a satisfying meal. Enjoy!
Additional Tips & Notes
Pairing Spanish Bean Soup with the right sides can elevate your meal, but there are also some tips and notes that can enhance the soup itself.
First, don’t hesitate to experiment with spices; a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne can add depth. If you have leftover ham or chorizo, toss it in for extra flavor.
For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup before serving. Finally, letting the soup sit overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully.