Aunt Mary'S 15 Bean Soup
A hearty, flavorful bean soup with smoky bacon, aromatic vegetables, and tangy lemon, perfect for comforting family dinners or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the 15 bean soup package thoroughly.
- Place the beans in a pan, cover with water, add 2 tablespoons salt, and soak overnight.
- Drain the beans and add 2 quarts of water.
- Put the beans and water into a crock-pot.
- Add the chopped onion, canned tomatoes, chopped red or green pepper, minced garlic, and raw bacon pieces.
- Squeeze the juice of 1 lemon into the crock-pot.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook on low for 13 to 15 hours or until the beans are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding smoked sausage or ham hocks in place of bacon. You can also use vegetable broth instead of water for a vegetarian version. If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the beans against the side of the crock-pot. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving to enhance the flavors. This hearty soup is often referred to as Depression Treat.
Serving Suggestions
Aunt Mary's 15 Bean Soup is best served hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or cornbread for a comforting meal. For an extra kick, consider serving it with hot sauce on the side. This dish makes a great main course or a hearty side for your favorite Pork recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it has thickened. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Freezing is also an option; just ensure it’s fully cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Mary'S 15 Bean Soup contains roughly 242 calories, with 10g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (17% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 967mg per serving (42% 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 a different type of bean for this soup?
Yes, while the 15 bean mix is traditional, you can substitute with any combination of beans you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of beans used, as some may require longer to soften.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and replace it with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a similar flavor. You can also add more vegetables, such as carrots and celery, to enhance the soup's depth.
What should I do if my beans are still hard after cooking?
If your beans are still hard after the recommended cooking time, it might be due to age or quality of the beans. You can try cooking them longer, adding additional water as needed. Alternatively, you can transfer them to a pot and simmer on the stove until tender.
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).