Four Bean Soup
A hearty, flavorful four bean soup combining a variety of beans and vegetables, perfect for a comforting vegetarian meal that is rich in protein and savory herbs.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place all ingredients except tomatoes in a large pot.
- Add 5 cups of water.
- Bring to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer.
- Cook until the beans are soft.
- Add blended tomatoes and additional water to reach desired consistency.
- Season with salt to taste and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider blending a portion of the soup before adding the tomatoes. If you don't have summer savory, thyme or oregano can be used as a substitute. To speed up cooking, soak the beans overnight. If you're short on time, canned beans can be used, but reduce the cooking time accordingly. This recipe is also excellent for meal prep, making it a great choice for busy weeks.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Boston Lettuce And Mandarin Salad, which adds a refreshing contrast. Consider topping with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dollop of vegan sour cream for added flavor. This soup also freezes well, making it perfect for future meals.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Four Bean Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. You can also reheat it in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Four Bean Soup contains roughly 555 calories, with 21g protein, 117g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (154% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (125% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1511mg per serving (66% 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 different types of beans in this recipe?
Absolutely! This Four Bean Soup is versatile, allowing you to mix and match beans based on your preference or what you have on hand. Just ensure that the cooking times of the beans you choose are similar to maintain a uniform texture in the soup.
Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this soup is perfect for meal prep! It stores well and can be made in advance. The flavors often deepen after a day or two in the fridge, making it even tastier. Just reheat and enjoy throughout the week for easy, nutritious meals.
Can I make this soup spicy?
Certainly! If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce during the cooking process. Adjust the spice level to your preference to create a comforting yet zesty bowl of soup.
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).