Bean Soup

Introduction

History

The tradition of making bean soup spans across many cultures and continents, often reflecting the local ingredients and culinary practices of the region. This recipe, with its use of navy beans, steak, and a ham bone, has roots in American cooking, drawing on the country's love for hearty, meat-based dishes. The inclusion of tomato sauce adds a touch of acidity and richness, making this version unique and flavorful.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your bean soup is as flavorful as possible, consider soaking the navy beans overnight before cooking. This not only shortens the cooking time but also makes the beans more digestible. Additionally, don't hesitate to brown the steak cubes before adding them to the pot, as this will add depth to the soup's flavor. Lastly, remember to check the seasoning towards the end of cooking and adjust the pepper to your taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this bean soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. A side of crusty bread or cornbread makes an excellent accompaniment, perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe utilizes slow baking in the oven, a technique that allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and the beans to become perfectly tender. For a quicker version, you can use a pressure cooker or slow cooker, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have navy beans on hand, other white beans like cannellini or great northern beans can be used as substitutes. Similarly, if you're out of steak, ground beef or even chicken can be used as alternatives, though the flavor profile will change slightly.

Make Ahead Tips

This bean soup tastes even better the next day, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. Simply prepare the soup as directed, allow it to cool, and then store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl. Garnish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch of flavor and sophistication.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp salad with a vinaigrette dressing makes a refreshing side to this hearty soup. For wine enthusiasts, a medium-bodied red wine such as a Merlot or a Chianti pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the steak and beans.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover bean soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm the soup over medium heat on the stove, adding a little water or broth if it has thickened too much. The soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of this bean soup is relatively low in calories considering its richness and depth of flavor. On average, a serving can contain about 250-300 calories, making it a great option for those looking for a filling yet calorie-conscious meal.

Carbohydrates

This bean soup is a good source of carbohydrates, primarily from the navy beans, which are rich in fiber and provide a slow release of energy. A serving of this soup can contain approximately 30-40 grams of carbohydrates, making it a satisfying meal that can help fuel your day.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come mainly from the steak and the ham bone. While these ingredients add flavor and richness to the soup, they also contribute to the overall fat content. A serving of this soup may contain about 10-15 grams of fat, depending on the cut of steak used and the amount of fat trimmed from the meat.

Proteins

Protein is a key component of this bean soup, with contributions from both the navy beans and the steak. Together, these ingredients make the soup a great option for those looking to increase their protein intake. A serving can provide approximately 20-25 grams of protein, supporting muscle repair and growth.

Vitamins and minerals

Navy beans are an excellent source of various vitamins and minerals, including folate, iron, and magnesium. The vegetables in this soup, such as carrots and celery, contribute additional vitamins like vitamin A and vitamin K. Together, these ingredients make the soup not only tasty but also nutritionally balanced.

Alergens

This recipe is free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten. However, those with specific food sensitivities should check the ingredients list carefully, especially the tomato sauce, for any hidden allergens.

Summary

Overall, this bean soup is a nutritious and balanced meal, offering a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a hearty dish that can fit into various dietary needs while providing comfort and satisfaction.

Summary

This bean soup recipe is a testament to the comforting and nourishing power of simple ingredients. With its rich flavors, nutritional benefits, and versatility, it's a dish that can be enjoyed in countless ways, making it a valuable addition to any cook's repertoire. Whether you're looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening or a nutritious option for your weekly meal plan, this bean soup is sure to satisfy.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was hooked. It was a chilly autumn day and my dear friend Martha invited me over for lunch. As soon as I walked into her cozy kitchen, the aroma of simmering beans and fragrant spices filled the air.

Martha greeted me with a warm smile and a steaming bowl of bean soup. As I took my first spoonful, I knew I had to learn how to make this delicious dish. The tender beans, the savory broth, the hint of garlic and herbs – it was a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds.

I begged Martha to teach me her secret recipe, and she happily obliged. She explained that the key to a perfect bean soup was to start with high-quality ingredients and to cook it low and slow. She showed me how to soak the beans overnight, how to sauté the onions and garlic until they were golden brown, and how to add the herbs and spices at just the right moment.

I watched and listened intently, taking notes and asking questions along the way. Martha’s hands moved with practiced ease as she stirred the pot, tasting and adjusting the seasonings until the flavors were just right. I could see the love and care she put into every step, and I knew that this was more than just a recipe – it was a labor of love.

After several hours of simmering on the stove, the bean soup was finally ready. Martha ladled generous portions into bowls and we sat down at the table to enjoy our meal. As I took my first bite, I was transported back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where she would cook up hearty soups and stews to warm our bellies on cold winter nights.

The memories flooded back as I savored each spoonful of Martha’s bean soup. I could almost hear my grandmother’s voice, encouraging me to keep cooking and experimenting with new recipes. And so I did, adding my own twist to Martha’s recipe by incorporating some of the flavors and techniques I had learned from my grandmother over the years.

As I honed my skills in the kitchen, I often thought back to that fateful day in Martha’s kitchen, where I first fell in love with bean soup. It became a staple in my own repertoire, a dish that I would make for family gatherings, dinner parties, and quiet nights at home. Each time I cooked it, I felt a sense of connection to the women who had passed down their culinary wisdom to me – Martha, my grandmother, and all the others who had shared their recipes and stories with me over the years.

And so, as I sit here now, writing down this recipe for bean soup, I can’t help but feel grateful for all the lessons I have learned and all the memories I have made in the kitchen. Cooking has always been more than just a way to feed my body – it is a way to nourish my soul, to connect with loved ones, and to carry on the traditions of those who came before me.

So here it is, my dear readers – the recipe for bean soup that has been passed down through generations, enriched with love, history, and a pinch of nostalgia. May it warm your hearts as it has warmed mine, and may you always remember the power of a good meal shared with good company. Bon appétit!

Categories

| American Recipes | Bean Soup Recipes | Beef Steak Recipes | Carrot Recipes | Cathy's Recipes | Celery Recipes | Ham Recipes | Navy Bean Recipes | Onion Recipes | Tomato Sauce Recipes |

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