18 Bean Soup
Hearty 18 Bean Soup combines a medley of beans, ham, barley, and tomatoes for a nourishing, flavorful meal perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cover mixed beans and salt with water and soak overnight. Drain.
- Add 5 more cups of water, meaty ham hock and ham, and barley. Bring to a boil and simmer slowly for 2 1/2 to 3 hours.
- Add tomatoes, salt, pepper, sliced onion, minced garlic, and juice of lemon.
- Continue to simmer for an additional hour before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding chopped carrots and celery along with the onion and garlic. If you're short on time, you can use canned beans instead of dried; just reduce cooking time. To enhance flavor, use a smoked ham hock. If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. It pairs beautifully with Pepperidge Farm Party Sandwiches for a casual meal. Consider offering crusty bread or cornbread on the side for dipping. A light salad can also complement the richness of the soup.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover 18 Bean Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to loosen the consistency, as the soup may thicken. You can reheat it on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 18 Bean Soup contains roughly 325 calories, with 9g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 different types of beans?
Absolutely! While mixed beans are traditional, feel free to experiment with your favorites like black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans. Just ensure the total amount remains around 1 1/2 cups for balanced cooking times.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, consider including diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper when cooking. You can also stir in some hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes before serving to customize the spice level.
Is it possible to freeze the soup?
Yes, you can freeze 18 Bean Soup! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
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).