Bean Jars And Soup
A hearty and nutritious bean jar mix perfect for gifting or meal prep. Bright flavors from a variety of dried beans and peas make this soup versatile and satisfying. Ideal for those who enjoy comforting, plant-based dishes with a touch of tradition, especially for New Year's celebrations or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Carefully place the dried beans and peas in layers in a clean quart jar.
- Place a canning lid on the jar.
- Give as a gift or store for later use.
- To prepare the soup, combine the contents of the jar with water or broth and cook until beans are tender, about 1-2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your soup, consider adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika. If you don't have all the beans listed, feel free to substitute with your favorites or use canned beans for quicker prep. For a heartier dish, add diced vegetables such as carrots and celery. Ensure you soak the beans overnight for better texture and cooking time, especially if you're using dried beans.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a fresh touch. It pairs beautifully with Norwegian Slaw for a crunchy contrast or a slice of crusty bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a salad or roasted vegetables. You can also top with avocado slices for creaminess.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bean Jars And Soup contains roughly 266 calories, with 17g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), protein (34% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. At about 266 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 beans, add them in the last 15-20 minutes of cooking to heat through, as they are already cooked. Adjust the liquid in the recipe since canned beans come in liquid, and be sure to drain and rinse them to reduce sodium content.
How do I make this soup thicker?
To thicken the soup, you can mash a portion of the beans with a fork or an immersion blender, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water) and stir until it thickens. Adding diced potatoes or more lentils can also enhance the thickness and creaminess of the soup.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Absolutely! For a heartier version, you can add cooked sausage, ham, or shredded chicken to the soup. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to heat the meat through. This addition can provide extra flavor and protein, making it a more filling meal.
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).