Introduction
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially on a chilly evening when you’re gathered around the table with family. The rich aroma wafts through the air, inviting everyone to come closer and fill their bowls. One dish that embodies this comfort is Amish Bean Soup. This humble yet hearty recipe is steeped in tradition, bringing with it both nostalgia and a sense of belonging. Whether it’s a quick dinner idea after a long day or a festive meal to share with loved ones, Amish Bean Soup holds a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of many.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
When you dive into the world of Amish Bean Soup, you’ll find more than just a recipe; you’ll discover comfort, flavor, and a little piece of history.
- Comforting Food: Perfect for chilly nights, this soup warms you from the inside out.
- Easy Recipe: With quick prep and minimal fuss, this soup is a great go-to for busy weeknights.
- Family Favorite: Loved by kids and adults alike, it’s a dish that brings everyone to the table.
- Nutritious Option: Packed with beans and vegetables, it’s a healthy choice that doesn’t compromise on taste.
- Versatile: Personalize it with your favorite ingredients or whatever you have on hand.
Ingredients
To make this delightful Amish Bean Soup, gather the following ingredients:
- Dried Great Northern beans – the star of the dish, providing a creamy texture and rich flavor.
- Carrots – for a touch of sweetness and color.
- Celery – adds crunch and depth.
- Onion – a cornerstone for making the broth aromatic and savory.
- Garlic – a little bit of garlic brings a warm, inviting flavor.
- Vegetable broth – or use chicken broth for an extra layer of deliciousness.
- Bay leaves – enhances the soup with a subtle earthiness.
- Salt and pepper – to taste, allowing all the flavors to shine.
- Thyme – fresh or dried thyme adds aromatic herbaceous notes.
For substitutions, you can use canned beans instead of dried; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Timing
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 1 hour
- Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
This warm, comforting dish is ready quicker than takeout and is worth every minute spent simmering on the stove.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Soak the beans: Place dried Great Northern beans in a bowl of water and soak them overnight. Rinse and drain before cooking. This step is optional but helps in making them easier to digest.
- Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, around 5-7 minutes. Your kitchen will smell amazing at this point!
- Add garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute to release its flavor.
- Combine ingredients: Add the soaked beans, vegetable broth, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the soup simmer, covered, for about 1 hour, or until the beans are tender.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste your soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Remove bay leaves before serving and ladle soup into bowls. Add a sprinkle of fresh thyme for garnish.
Tips and Variations
- Add diced ham or bacon: For those who enjoy meaty dishes, adding ham or crispy bacon can provide an indulgent twist.
- Make it spicy: Throw in a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Incorporate greens: Spinach or kale can be a nutritious boost added in the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Creamy consistency: Blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender for a creamier texture while leaving some beans whole for bite.
Serving Suggestions
Imagine sitting at your dining table, a steaming bowl of Amish Bean Soup in front of you. A side of crusty homemade bread or cornbread is perfect for dipping. Pair it with a light salad drizzled with vinaigrette, and for a drink, a glass of chilled iced tea or a warm herbal tea can complement this comforting meal beautifully. This dish is not just for everyday dinners; serve it at family gatherings or cozy evenings by the fire.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftovers of this hearty dish only get better as the flavors meld over time! Store any excess soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stove until warmed through—adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens up too much.
Pro Tips from the Kitchen
- Plan your meals: Soaking beans ahead of time can save time when preparing this dish on a busy day.
- Layer flavors: Don’t skip on onions and garlic; they are the foundation for incredible soup.
- Taste as you go: Always taste and adjust seasonings throughout cooking to ensure the best flavor balance.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
Yes, you can substitute canned beans for dried. Just rinse them and add them in the last 20 minutes of cooking to heat through.
2. Is this soup vegan?
Absolutely! It’s a wholesome vegan dish, especially when using vegetable broth.
3. Can I make Amish Bean Soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can toss all the ingredients into a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. What should I serve with this soup?
Pair it with bread, cornbread, or a side salad. It also goes well with pickles for some tang!
5. How can I make this soup thicker?
To thicken the soup, mash some beans against the side of the pot and stir them in, or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
Conclusion
Amish Bean Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a comforting tradition that invites warmth and connection into your home. The act of preparing this dish is a reminder of the simple joys of sharing meals with loved ones. I encourage you to try making this easy recipe and perhaps even share it with someone special. Let it become part of your traditions—an indulgent treat that warms hearts and bellies alike. Enjoy your time in the kitchen, and let the love pour into every spoonful!
Contents
Amish Bean Soup
Ingredients
Beans and Broth
- 1 cup Dried Great Northern beans Soaked overnight, can use canned beans as a substitute
- 4 cups Vegetable broth Can substitute with chicken broth
- 2 bay leaves Bay leaves Enhances the flavor
Vegetables and Seasoning
- 2 medium Carrots, chopped Adds sweetness and color
- 2 stalks Celery, chopped Adds crunch and depth
- 1 medium Onion, chopped Aromatic base for the soup
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced Brings warm flavor
- 1 teaspoon Thyme, fresh or dried Adds herbaceous notes
- to taste Salt and pepper To season to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Soak the beans: Place dried Great Northern beans in a bowl of water and soak them overnight. Rinse and drain before cooking.
- Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, around 5-7 minutes.
- Add garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Combine ingredients: Add the soaked beans, vegetable broth, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the soup simmer, covered, for about 1 hour, or until the beans are tender.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste your soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Remove bay leaves before serving and ladle soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh thyme.
Notes
Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.
📩 admin@tastysunrise.com • Pinterest