Glenda'S 16 Bean Soup Recipe
Glenda's 16 Bean Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring a medley of beans simmered with ham or chicken, tomatoes, and spices. Its rich taste and comforting warmth make it perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a nutritious and satisfying meal with a hint of citrus brightness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place beans in a large kettle and cover with water.
- Add salt to the beans and water; soak overnight.
- Next morning, drain the beans and add 2 quarts of water.
- Add some ham or chicken pieces to the kettle.
- Bring to a boil and cook slowly for 2 1/2 to 3 hours.
- Add sliced onion, canned tomatoes, red pepper, chili powder, lemon juice and peel, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer the soup for another 30 minutes and serve with cornbread or crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding smoked sausage or a ham hock in place of chicken. You can also mix in vegetables like carrots and celery for more depth. If using canned beans, reduce the cooking time significantly. Soaking the beans overnight helps reduce cooking time and enhances digestibility, making this dish a great option for hearty meals like American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Glenda's 16 Bean Soup with a side of cornbread or crackers for a comforting meal. A fresh green salad or a slice of crusty bread also makes a great accompaniment. This versatile soup can be topped with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream for added richness. It pairs beautifully with Lotsa Layers Salad for a complete dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to maintain the desired consistency. This soup can be even tastier the next day as flavors meld.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Glenda'S 16 Bean Soup Recipe contains roughly 77 calories, with 3g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (15% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 581mg per serving (25% 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 canned?
Yes, using dried beans is ideal for this recipe. Just soak them overnight to reduce cooking time and improve texture. Dried beans will provide a fresher taste compared to canned options, allowing the flavors of the soup to shine through.
What can I substitute for ham?
If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of water. For a similar flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke. You could also use mushrooms to create a hearty texture, making it suitable for both vegetarians and those looking for lighter pork recipes.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To make the soup milder, reduce the amount of red pepper and chili powder. Conversely, to increase the heat, add more red pepper or a dash of hot sauce. Always taste as you go to achieve the perfect balance for your palate.
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).