This Vegan 15 Bean Soup Recipe is the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings or any day you crave a warm and satisfying meal. Bursting with flavor and packed with plant-based protein, this hearty soup is surprisingly simple to make and easily customizable to your liking.
Gathering Your Ingredients for Vegan 15 Bean Soup
This recipe calls for a delightful mix of beans, vegetables, and spices that create a symphony of flavors in every spoonful. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 (16-ounce) package of 15 bean soup mix
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 4 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups vegetable broth
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Vegan 15 Bean Soup Ingredients
Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps to create a pot of delicious vegan 15 bean soup:
- Rinse and sort the beans: Empty the 15 bean soup mix into a colander and rinse thoroughly under cold water. Pick out any debris or broken beans.
- Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until softened.
- Add aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, and smoked paprika and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Combine all ingredients: Pour in the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and rinsed beans. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Simmer to perfection: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
- Adjust consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, use a potato masher to lightly mash some of the beans against the side of the pot.
Vegan 15 Bean Soup Simmering
Tips for a Flavorful Vegan 15 Bean Soup
- Soaking the beans: While not mandatory, soaking the bean mix overnight can help reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.
- Spice it up: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño pepper along with the other vegetables.
- Fresh herbs: Enhance the flavor profile by stirring in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro just before serving.
- Serving suggestions: This soup can be served with a side of crusty bread, cornbread, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
“Using smoked paprika in this vegan 15 bean soup recipe adds a wonderful depth of flavor that complements the earthy beans beautifully,” says renowned vegan chef, Anya Green.
Vegan 15 Bean Soup FAQs
Can I freeze leftover soup?
Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool completely and store in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I substitute for vegetable broth?
If you don’t have vegetable broth, you can use water, but the flavor of the soup may be less intense. You can also use vegetable bouillon cubes or powder dissolved in water according to package instructions.
Can I use canned beans instead of the bean mix?
Yes, you can use an assortment of your favorite canned beans. Aim for about 6 cups of cooked beans total.
How can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Follow steps 1-4 in the instructions above. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the beans are tender.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. However, be sure to check the label of your 15 bean soup mix and other ingredients to ensure they are certified gluten-free if necessary.
Vegan 15 Bean Soup Served
This vegan 15 bean soup is not only delicious and fulfilling but also incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, and vegetables to create your own unique variations. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful soup as a healthy and satisfying meal any day of the week!
