Ah, the moment I hear “Loaded + Super Satisfying Bean Soup,” my heart does a little happy dance! This soup brings back cozy memories of winter nights spent cuddled up on the couch with a good book and it’s the kind of dish that wraps you in warmth like a comfy blanket.
What I love most about this soup is its versatility. You can play around with the ingredients based on what you have on hand or what you’re craving. Plus, it’s a wholesome meal that is hearty enough to satisfy the hungriest of appetites. I’ll never forget the first time I whipped this up; my household was pleasantly caught off guard by the combination of flavors. Let’s say there were no leftovers that night!
What’s in Loaded + Super Satisfying Bean Soup?
Here’s a little breakdown of each star ingredient in this delightful soup:
Beans: The foundation of this dish! You can use any mix of beans you have on hand, whether it’s black beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas. They’re rich in protein and fiber, making the soup filling and good-for-you!
Vegetables: Think carrots, celery, onions, and any other veggies you want to squeeze into the pot. They enhance the flavor profile while adding nutrients. Personally, I love sneaking in some kale or spinach for an extra greens boost!
Herbs and Spices: Cumin, chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper work wonders here. Not only do they add an incredible depth of flavor, but they also give the soup that delightful warmth that makes you crave it even more.
Broth: Whether you go for vegetable or chicken broth, it’s the heart of the soup. Homemade gives a depth of flavor that’s unbeatable, but store-bought works just as well for saving time.
Acid: A squeeze of lemon or lime at the end brightens everything up! Trust me, that little zing does wonders!
Is Loaded + Super Satisfying Bean Soup Good for You?
Absolutely! This soup is a powerhouse of nutrition.
Beans: Besides being high in protein, they are also loaded with fiber, which keeps you full and satisfied for longer. Win-win!
Vegetables: Packed with vitamins and minerals, a colorful array of veggies boosts your immune system, adds crunch, and keeps everything nice and fresh.
Broth: Choosing a low-sodium broth can help keep your blood pressure in check, making this a heart-healthy option.
So, while it’s deliciously filling, it’s also a great choice for those looking for nutritious comfort food without the guilt!
Ingredients List
– 1 can (15 oz) mixed beans (black, kidney, etc.), drained and rinsed
– 1 cup carrots, diced
– 1 cup celery, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Juice of 1 lime or lemon
– Optional toppings: cilantro, avocado, sour cream, or cheese
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings, perfect for sharing or meal prepping for the week!
How to Make Loaded + Super Satisfying Bean Soup?
1. Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it warm enough to sauté those veggies perfectly.
2. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. This trio is often called the “mirepoix” and will form the flavorful base of your soup. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Toss in the cumin and chili powder, stirring for about a minute to toast the spices and release their aroma. Your kitchen will smell incredible!
4. Add the mixed beans and broth to the pot. Stir everything together, bringing it to a gentle simmer.
5. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. You can adjust the consistency by adding more broth if desired.
6. Before serving, squeeze in the lime or lemon juice, and give it a taste. Adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Ladle the soup into bowls and top it with your choice of cilantro, avocado, sour cream, or cheese.
Delicious Variations and Tips
If you want to spice things up, how about adding some diced tomatoes or corn? You can even play with different herbs like thyme or oregano for a new flavor twist.
For a lighter version, skip the oil entirely and use a non-stick pot, or swap heavy toppings for fresh veggies like diced radishes or cucumber for crunch.
And I can’t stress this enough: this soup stores great! Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for those days when cooking seems like too much effort—just heat it up and enjoy!
So, why not bring some warmth to your kitchen with this Loaded + Super Satisfying Bean Soup? I can’t wait for you to try it! I’m sure you’ll fall in love, just like I did. Let me know how it turns out and any tweaks you make to the recipe! Happy cooking!
