Hearty Mixed Bean Soup

Here’s a hearty, comforting bean soup that’s rich, flavourful, and perfect for chilly days

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 6)

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 cups dried mixed beans (or 2 x 400 g cans, drained & rinsed)
• 1 tin (400 g) chopped tomatoes
• 6 cups vegetable or chicken stock
• 1–2 potatoes, diced (optional, for extra heartiness)
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

👩‍🍳 Method

1️⃣ If Using Dried Beans

• Rinse and soak overnight in plenty of water.
• Drain before cooking.

(If using canned beans, skip this step.)

2️⃣ Build the Base

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot.
2. Sauté onion, carrot, and celery for 5–7 minutes until soft.
3. Add garlic, thyme, paprika, and bay leaf. Cook 1 minute.

3️⃣ Simmer

1. Add beans, chopped tomatoes, stock, and potatoes (if using).
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
3. Cover and cook:
   • Dried beans: 60–90 minutes (until tender)
   • Canned beans: 30 minutes

Stir occasionally and add water if needed.

4️⃣ Finish

• Remove bay leaf.
• Lightly blend 1–2 cups of the soup and return to the pot for a thicker texture (optional).
• Season well with salt and pepper.

🍞 Serve With

• Crusty bread
• Buttered toast
• Grated cheese on top
• A drizzle of olive oil

🔥 Flavor Boost Ideas

• Add chopped bacon or ham at the start.
• Stir in a spoon of pesto before serving.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for brightness.
• Toss in chopped spinach in the last 5 minutes.