Grandma B's Bean Soup is a classic American recipe that has been passed down through generations. This hearty and nourishing soup is perfect for cold winter nights or anytime you need a comforting meal. Made with a variety of beans, vegetables, and savory herbs, this soup is packed with flavor and will leave you feeling satisfied. It's also a versatile recipe that can easily be customized to fit your preferences. Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a bowl of comforting goodness.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried navy beans
- 1 cup dried pinto beans
- 1 cup dried black beans
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 4 cups water
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Rinse the dried beans under cold water and remove any debris. Soak the beans overnight in a large bowl filled with water.
- In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Drain the soaked beans and add them to the pot with the cooked vegetables. Stir to combine.
- Add the vegetable broth, water, bay leaves, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and paprika to the pot. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 1 hour or until the beans are tender.
- Once the beans are cooked, remove the bay leaves from the soup. Use an immersion blender or blend a portion of the soup in a regular blender until creamy. This step is optional and can be skipped if you prefer a chunkier texture.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Bean soup has been traditionally enjoyed in American households as a frugal and hearty meal.
Beans are a great source of protein, fiber, and vitamins, making this soup a nutritious option.
This recipe can easily be adapted to include other vegetables or meats, such as ham or bacon, for added flavor.