Amish Bean Soup

Amish Bean Soup: A Cozy Taste of Tradition

There’s something deeply comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s something as nourishing and hearty as Amish Bean Soup. Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, the sky a canvas of muted grays, and inside, your home is filled with the enticing aroma of simmering beans and spices. Gathered around the table, your family’s faces light up as they take their first spoonful, and you feel that warm glow of connection and joy. This dish isn’t just soup; it’s a celebration of togetherness, a nod to tradition, and a reminder that the simplest meals often make the biggest memories.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Amish Bean Soup is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Here are a few reasons why this recipe will capture your heart:

• Comforting Nourishment: Rich in protein and fiber, this soup warms the soul and fills you up without weighing you down.
• Flavorful Blend: The combination of spices and vegetables creates a symphony that dances on your taste buds.
• Family Tradition: Passed down through generations, this soup embodies the warmth and love of home.
• Quick and Easy: Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe can be whipped up in less time than it takes to order takeout.
• Versatile and Customizable: Whether you want to add your twist or keep it classic, this soup welcomes creativity.

Ingredients

To make your pot of Amish Bean Soup, gather these nourishing ingredients:

• Dried Beans (1 cup): A blend of navy or great northern beans works beautifully for texture and taste.
• Carrots (2 medium): They add sweetness and color, making each bowl vibrant.
• Celery (2 stalks): For that trademark crunch and flavor.
• Onion (1 medium): The aromatic base that ties everything together.
• Garlic (2 cloves): Adding a touch of depth and warmth.
• Vegetable Broth (4 cups): The liquid gold that forms the soup’s heart.
• Bay Leaf (1): Enhances flavor—don’t forget to remove it before serving!
• Thyme (1 teaspoon): Earthy and aromatic, it brings a comforting essence.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste): For seasoning, adjusting to your palate.

Substitutions: If you don’t have dried beans, canned beans can be used—just adjust the cooking time. You can also include meats such as ham or bacon for added heartiness!

Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

This simple recipe comes together faster than a Netflix episode, leaving you plenty of time to bask in the cozy atmosphere it creates.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Soak the Beans: If using dried beans, soak them overnight or at least 6 hours in water. This step helps them cook faster and adds to the creaminess of the soup.

2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until they soften—around 5 minutes—until they start to caramelize and release their wonderful scents.

3. Stir in Garlic: Once the vegetables are tender, add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Your kitchen will smell amazing at this point!

4. Add Beans & Broth: Stir in the soaked beans, vegetable broth, bay leaf, and thyme. If you’re using canned beans, wait until after the next step to add them.

5. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 45 minutes, or until the beans are tender. Check occasionally and add water if it gets too thick.

6. Season and Serve: Before serving, taste and adjust salt and pepper. Remove the bay leaf, and ladle the warm soup into bowls. Revel in the delightful aroma and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a couple of diced jalapeños for a kick.
• Herb Variations: Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can add a fresh, vibrant flavor.
• Creamy Texture: Blend a portion of the soup for a creamy consistency while leaving chunks for that hearty feel.

Serving Suggestions

Amish Bean Soup is a meal in itself but pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh side salad. Picture a rustic loaf of sourdough, perfect for dipping, or a zesty coleslaw that contrasts with the warmth of the soup. For drink options, consider a chilled iced tea or a robust glass of red wine for the adults—perfect for gathering friends and family.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This soup makes wonderful leftovers, and flavors only deepen with time. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, cool the soup completely and freeze in airtight containers for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Pro Tips from the Kitchen

• Check your Beans: Old beans may take longer to cook, so make sure they are fresh for the best results.
• Slow Cooker Option: This dish is excellent in a slow cooker; just toss everything in and set it on low for 6-8 hours.
• Make it Vegetarian: Swap vegetable broth for chicken broth to keep it vegetarian without losing flavor.

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FAQs

1. Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
Absolutely! Canned beans cut down cooking time significantly. Just add them during the last 15 minutes of cooking.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days or freeze it for later enjoyment.

3. What can I serve with Amish Bean Soup?
Crusty bread, cornbread, or a fresh green salad are perfect companions to this hearty soup.

4. Can I add meat to this recipe?
Yes! Diced ham or bacon can add a wonderful layer of flavor. Just sauté with the vegetables.

5. How long does it take to make from start to finish?
Total time is about 1 hour and 15 minutes, with minimal prep involved!

Conclusion

Amish Bean Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace on a chilly night, a gathering around the table filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Whether you’re making it for your family or sharing it with friends, this recipe is sure to find a place in your heart and your home. So grab your ingredients, simmer together, and let the warmth of this dish inspire connection and joy. You’ll soon find that this humble soup becomes a beloved family favorite, a tradition passed down through generations. Embrace the experience, and happy cooking!

Contents

• 1 Amish Bean Soup
  • 1.1 Ingredients  
  • 1.2 Method 
  • 1.3 Notes

Amish Bean Soup

A hearty and comforting soup made with a blend of beans, vegetables, and spices, perfect for chilly evenings.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Main Course, Soup

Cuisine: American

Calories: 200

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup Dried Beans A blend of navy or great northern beans works beautifully.
• 2 medium Carrots Adds sweetness and color.
• 2 stalks Celery Provides crunch and flavor.
• 1 medium Onion Aromatic base for the soup.
• 2 cloves Garlic Adds depth to the flavor.
• 4 cups Vegetable Broth The base liquid for the soup.
• 1 leaf Bay Leaf Enhances flavor; remove before serving.
• 1 teaspoon Thyme Brings an earthy aroma.
• to taste Salt and Pepper Adjust to your preference.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Soak the beans overnight or at least 6 hours in water.
2. In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for around 5 minutes until soft.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Stir in the soaked beans, vegetable broth, bay leaf, and thyme.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 45 minutes, or until beans are tender.
6. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Remove the bay leaf and serve the warm soup.

Notes

This soup can be customized with spices like cayenne for a kick or blended for a creamy texture. Pairs well with crusty bread or a salad.