Spanish Bean Soup
Spanish Bean Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring chickpeas, ham, chorizo, and saffron that offers a comforting taste of Spain. Perfect for cozy dinners, it combines savory ingredients with aromatic spices, making it suitable for those who enjoy rich, soulful soups with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oil on medium; sauté onion and garlic for 1 minute.
- Add chicken broth, water, ham, chickpeas, potatoes, chorizo, and saffron (if using).
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a slow simmer for at least 2 hours.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For deeper flavor, consider adding a bay leaf or a pinch of smoked paprika while simmering. If you want a vegetarian option, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and use plant-based sausage. Ensure to soak dried chickpeas overnight if using them instead of canned. Adjust the saffron to your taste; it adds a unique aroma but is optional.
Serving Suggestions
This Spanish Bean Soup is delicious on its own but can be served with crusty bread for dipping or a side salad for a complete meal. Consider pairing it with a light wine or a refreshing iced tea. For an extra touch, sprinkle some fresh parsley or cilantro on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat in the microwave, but be sure to do so in short intervals to prevent overheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spanish Bean Soup contains roughly 1720 calories, with 47g protein, 259g carbohydrates, and 73g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (272% of the Daily Value), iron (203% of the Daily Value), and potassium (106% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1657mg per serving (72% 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 make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead and actually benefits from resting as the flavors meld. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and refrigerating. Reheat before serving.
Is there a way to thicken the soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the chickpeas or potatoes against the side of the pot once cooked. Alternatively, blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in for a creamier texture.
Can I freeze the Spanish Bean Soup?
Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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).