Hearty and Healthy 15 Bean Soup in the Slow Cooker
Warm up with Hearty and Healthy 15 Bean Soup, a nutrient-packed slow cooker dish with colorful beans and savory veggies. This wholesome, easy recipe delivers comforting flavors, perfect for cozy weeknight dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Hearty and Healthy 15 Bean Soup in the Slow Cooker is a nourishing, protein-rich meal that transforms a vibrant blend of beans and vegetables into a warm, satisfying soup with minimal effort. Ideal for busy evenings or chilly nights, this budget-friendly recipe lets the slow cooker meld robust flavors, creating a comforting dish that’s both delicious and nutritious. Its versatility allows for easy customization to fit dietary preferences, making it a family favorite. Packed with fiber and wholesome ingredients, this soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a fresh salad, offering a wholesome, heartwarming dinner that everyone will love.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Soak Beans: Soak beans overnight to reduce cooking time and enhance digestibility; rinse thoroughly before use.
- Layer Strategically: Place denser veggies like carrots at the bottom for even cooking in the slow cooker.
- Skim Foam: Check for foam during the first hour and skim for a clearer, cleaner broth.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt or spices near the end, as beans absorb flavors.
- Use Low Heat: Cook on low for tender beans and deeper flavor development.
- Blend for Texture: Blend a portion of the soup for a creamier consistency if desired.
Hearty and Healthy 15 Bean Soup in the Slow Cooker
Hearty and Healthy 15 Bean Soup, a wholesome slow cooker dish, perfect for cozy, nutritious dinners.
Ingredients
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 lb 15 bean soup mix, rinsed and soaked
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Soak Beans: Rinse and soak the 15 bean mix overnight in water; drain and rinse before cooking.
- Prep Veggies: Slice carrots and celery, and dice onion for a vibrant, savory base.
- Mince Garlic: Finely mince garlic to infuse the soup with bold, aromatic flavor.
- Grease Crockpot: Lightly oil a 6-quart slow cooker or use a liner for easy cleanup.
- Layer Ingredients: Place carrots, celery, and onion at the bottom, followed by soaked beans.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in diced tomatoes and vegetable broth, stirring gently to combine.
- Season the Soup: Add thyme, salt, and pepper; stir to distribute flavors evenly.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until beans are tender.
- Adjust Consistency: Stir and adjust seasoning; blend a portion for a thicker texture if desired.
- Serve with Flair: Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley, and enjoy this hearty, wholesome soup!
Notes
- Soaking beans reduces cooking time and improves digestibility; quick-soak by boiling for 2 minutes and resting for 1 hour if needed.
- Leftovers deepen in flavor, making them ideal for next-day meals or freezing.
- Blend a portion for a creamier soup, leaving some beans whole for texture.
- Serve with cornbread, crusty bread, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients Notes
- 15 Bean Mix: A colorful blend of beans provides variety and nutrition; any multi-bean mix works.
- Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and texture; baby carrots are a convenient alternative.
- Celery: Fresh celery stalks contribute a savory, aromatic base; ensure freshness for best flavor.
- Onion: Yellow onion offers a savory-sweet foundation; red onion provides a milder option.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances aroma; garlic powder is a quick substitute.
- Vegetable Broth: Low-sodium broth keeps it vegetarian; chicken broth adds richness for non-vegetarian diets.
- Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes add tangy depth; fire-roasted tomatoes enhance smokiness.
- Thyme: Dried thyme brings earthy warmth; fresh thyme or rosemary can elevate flavor.
Variations and Substitutions
- Protein Boost: Add smoked sausage, ham, or bacon for a heartier, non-vegetarian version.
- Bean Alternatives: Use navy, pinto, or a single bean type if a 15-bean mix isn’t available.
- Veggie Add-Ins: Incorporate kale, zucchini, or green beans for extra nutrition and variety.
- Vegetarian Option: Naturally vegetarian; use plant-based broth for vegan diets.
- Spicy Twist: Add chili powder, cayenne, or jalapeños for a fiery kick.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free; ensure broth and bean mix are gluten-free certified.
- Herb Variations: Swap thyme for oregano, rosemary, or bay leaf for different flavor profiles.
Storage Options
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days; reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm with a splash of broth to restore consistency; stir well to combine.
- Meal Prep: Portion into containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
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