Bowl of nutritious vegetarian 15 bean soup with fresh herbs and vegetables.

why make this recipe

Vegetarian 15 Bean Soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any time of the year. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a great choice for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. This soup is also very easy to make and is perfect for batch cooking. You can enjoy it for several days, and it tastes even better the next day!

how to make Vegetarian 15 Bean Soup

Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb boneless chicken or stew beef, cut into bite-size pieces (optional for non-vegetarians)
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
4 cups broth
2 medium potatoes, diced
1 tsp dried thyme
1 bay leaf

Directions:

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it is translucent.
If you are using chicken or beef, add it to the pot along with the minced garlic. Cook until the meat is lightly browned.
Stir in the sliced carrots, celery, diced potatoes, broth, dried thyme, and bay leaf.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a steady simmer.
Cook for about 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables and meat (if used) are tender, and the broth is flavorful.
Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary before serving.

how to serve Vegetarian 15 Bean Soup

Serve Vegetarian 15 Bean Soup hot in bowls. You can top it with fresh herbs or a dollop of cream for extra flavor. It pairs well with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.

how to store Vegetarian 15 Bean Soup

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for about 4-5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, and remember to leave some space for expansion.

tips to make Vegetarian 15 Bean Soup

If you want a thicker soup, you can mash some of the beans with a fork.
Add spices like cumin or smoked paprika for extra flavor.
Use low-sodium broth to control the salt content.

variation

You can customize the vegetable mix by adding bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach. For a spicier version, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this soup without meat?
A: Yes, you can easily make it vegetarian by omitting the chicken or beef. The beans provide plenty of protein.

Q: How can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Simply add all the ingredients to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Q: Can I use dried beans instead of canned beans?
A: Yes, you can use dried beans, but they will need to be soaked overnight and cooked longer in the soup. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.