16-Bean Soup
A hearty and flavorful 16-bean soup packed with vegetables and spices, perfect for nourishing meals and suitable for vegetarians seeking comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sort and rinse the beans into a large pot.
- Cover the beans with 3 cups of hot water.
- Bring to a boil for 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat, cover, and let stand for 1 hour.
- Optionally, microwave the beans in a covered 2 1/2 to 3-quart pan for 10 minutes.
- Add the prepared beans, canned tomatoes, and spices from the bean mix package to a pot.
- Simmer until the beans are tender and flavors meld, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced onions, garlic, or bell peppers when simmering the soup. If you don't have a 16-bean mix, you can create a similar blend using pinto, black, and kidney beans. To speed up cooking, soak the beans overnight. Adjust the spices to your taste; a pinch of seasoned salt can enhance the dish. This soup is perfect for meal prepping for vegan recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the 16-bean soup with crusty bread for a comforting meal, or over rice for added heartiness. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of Kapusta, making it a hearty, fulfilling meal for family or guests.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw if frozen, and warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 16-Bean Soup contains roughly 108 calories, with 12g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% 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 dried beans instead of a 16-bean mix?
Yes, you can use any dried beans you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the soaking and cooking times accordingly, as different beans may require different cooking times. Soaking them overnight can help reduce cooking time significantly.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes when simmering. You can also serve the soup with hot sauce on the side for those who prefer to customize the spice level individually.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Just make sure it is cooled completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
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).