13 Bean Soup
A hearty and flavorful bean soup featuring a mix of dried beans, ham hocks, and aromatic vegetables, perfect for comforting family meals and cold evenings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sort and rinse the dried beans; soak if desired for quicker cooking.
- In a large pot, add the dried beans, ham hocks, minced garlic, chopped onion, and canned tomatoes.
- Add enough water or broth to cover the ingredients completely.
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer.
- Cook uncovered for approximately 2 hours, or until beans are tender and flavors meld.
- Season with salt to taste before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a bay leaf or smoked paprika to the pot. If you don’t have ham hocks, diced bacon or smoked sausage can serve as a great substitute. Soaking the beans overnight can help reduce cooking time and improve texture. Remember to taste as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the 13 Bean Soup with crusty bread or over rice for a hearty meal. A side of green salad can add freshness to the dish. For a comforting twist, pair it with Broiled Sandwiches for a delightful dinner combo. Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 13 Bean Soup contains roughly 314 calories, with 8g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (19% of the Daily Value), protein (16% of the Daily Value), and iron (16% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 823mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
Yes, you can use canned beans to save time. If using canned, reduce the cooking time significantly, as they are already cooked. Add them towards the end of the cooking process, just enough to heat through and meld the flavors.
What should I do if the beans are still hard after cooking?
If the beans are still hard after the suggested cooking time, add a bit more water and continue simmering. It’s essential to check the beans periodically, as cooking times can vary based on the type and age of the beans.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make the soup vegetarian, omit the ham hocks and use vegetable broth instead of water. You can add additional vegetables like carrots and celery for added flavor and nutrition, making it a hearty option for all.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).