Southwestern Bean Soup

Southwestern Bean Soup Recipe - Delicious & Easy-to-Make Soup Originating from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: overnight | Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Southwestern Bean Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This soup is packed with protein and fiber from a variety of beans, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal. The addition of Italian sausage adds a savory and rich flavor to the soup, while the blend of spices gives it a delicious Southwestern twist.

History

Southwestern Bean Soup is a popular dish in the Southwestern United States, where beans are a staple ingredient in many traditional recipes. This soup has been enjoyed for generations as a comforting and filling meal that is perfect for chilly evenings. The combination of beans, sausage, and spices creates a delicious and satisfying dish that is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

0.25 cup pinto beans
0.25 cup northern beans
0.25 cup black beans
0.25 cup lentils
0.5 lb (227 g) italian sausage, crumbled
8 cups of water
2 cups of tomato or spaghetti sauce

Seasoning packet

2 tbsp dried basil
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
0.5 tsp garlic powder
2 tbsp veggie bouillon granules

How to prepare

Cover the beans with water and let them soak overnight.
Drain the beans.
In a large pan, brown the crumbled sausage.
Add the beans, water, tomato or spaghetti sauce, and seasoning packet.
Stir well and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 1.5 hours or until the beans are tender.
Stir occasionally.

Variations

Vegetarian option: Omit the Italian sausage and use vegetable broth instead of water for a meat-free version of this soup.
Spicy option: Add a diced jalapeno pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Smoky option: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soaking the beans overnight helps to reduce cooking time and ensures that they cook evenly.

- Browning the sausage before adding it to the soup adds depth of flavor and helps to render out excess fat.

- Stirring the soup occasionally while it simmers helps to prevent sticking and ensures that the flavors are evenly distributed.

- Adjust the seasonings to taste, adding more or less chili powder depending on your preference for heat.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Southwestern Bean Soup with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, and a side of cornbread for a complete and delicious meal.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the soup slowly over low heat helps to develop the flavors and ensures that the beans are tender.

- Stirring occasionally while the soup cooks helps to prevent sticking and ensures that the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any combination of beans that you prefer, such as kidney beans, navy beans, or chickpeas.

- Substitute ground turkey or ground beef for the Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.

- Use chicken or vegetable broth instead of water for a richer and more flavorful soup.

Make Ahead Tips

Southwestern Bean Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Southwestern Bean Soup with a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Southwestern Bean Soup with a side of tortilla chips or a green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Southwestern Bean Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

250

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 28g

- Dietary Fiber: 7g

- Sugars: 4g

Fats

- Total Fat: 10g

- Saturated Fat: 4g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 15g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10%

- Vitamin C: 15%

- Calcium: 6%

- Iron: 15%

Alergens

Contains: Soy

Summary

Southwestern Bean Soup is a nutritious and balanced meal that is rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. This soup is a great option for those looking to enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal.

Summary

Southwestern Bean Soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, this soup is a satisfying and flavorful meal that is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this hearty and comforting soup with your favorite toppings and sides for a complete and delicious meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe is still vivid in my mind. It was a hot summer day in the small town of Santa Fe, New Mexico. I had just finished exploring the local farmer's market, picking up fresh ingredients for dinner. As I strolled through the narrow streets lined with adobe buildings, I came across a quaint little cafe tucked away in a corner.

The aroma of spices and herbs wafted through the air, drawing me in. I decided to take a seat and order a bowl of their famous Southwestern Bean Soup. As soon as I took my first spoonful, I was hooked. The flavors danced on my taste buds, a perfect blend of smoky beans, spicy chilies, and tangy tomatoes.

I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this soup at home. So, I struck up a conversation with the chef, an elderly woman with a kind smile and a twinkle in her eye. She told me that the recipe had been passed down through generations in her family, and she graciously agreed to share it with me.

I spent the next few days in her kitchen, watching her work her magic as she simmered the beans, roasted the chilies, and added a secret blend of spices. She explained each step in detail, sharing stories of her ancestors and the traditions they had passed down.

As the soup bubbled away on the stove, filling the kitchen with its tantalizing aroma, I felt a sense of connection to the past. I could almost imagine the generations of women who had stood in this very spot, stirring pots of beans and sharing laughter and love.

Finally, the soup was ready. I ladled it into bowls and garnished it with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. As I took my first bite, I was transported back to that sunny day in Santa Fe, surrounded by the sights and sounds of a culture rich in history and flavor.

Since that day, Southwestern Bean Soup has become a staple in my kitchen. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on not just a delicious dish, but a piece of my own history and heritage.

Every time I make this soup, I am reminded of the kind chef who shared her family recipe with me, and the generations of women who came before her. I am grateful for the connection to the past that this simple dish provides, and the joy it brings to all who taste it.

As I sit down to enjoy a bowl of Southwestern Bean Soup, I raise my spoon in a silent toast to the traditions that have shaped me, and to the memories that keep me connected to my roots. And I am grateful for the gift of food, which has the power to bring us together, across time and distance, in a celebration of love and history.