15 Bean Soup in a Crock Pot

Enjoy cozy Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup in just 8 hours! This easy recipe features nutritious beans, veggies & spices. Perfect for family dinners!

about introduction

welcome to the world of 15 bean soup crock pot . this delightful dish, rich in history and flavor, has been a staple in american kitchens for generations, originating from various bean varieties cultivated across the globe, this soup not only warms your soul but also embodies a culinary tradition that brings families together, the unique selling point of this recipe lies in its versatility; whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or a meat lover, there are countless ways to tailor it to your taste buds .

not only is 15 bean soup hearty and delicious, but it also packs an impressive nutritional punch, each bowl is filled with protein - rich beans and an array of vegetables, making it perfect for anyone looking to enjoy balanced meals without sacrificing flavor, plus, cooking this soup in a crock pot means you can set it and forget it how much easier could home - cooking get ?

the complete guide to authentic 15 bean soup crock pot

the culinary heritage behind 15 bean soup is as diverse as the beans themselves, with roots tracing back centuries, beans have been celebrated across cultures for their affordability and nutritional value, this soup tells a fascinating origin story : it's believed that early settlers combined dried beans with whatever fresh ingredients they had on hand, today’s version embraces modern flavors while still honoring traditional techniques .

culturally speaking, bean soups hold significant importance in many regions worldwide from latin america to europe, they've evolved into comforting dishes served during family gatherings or festive occasions, modern - day popularity has surged due to increased awareness around plant - based diets and health - conscious eating habits .

why you'll love this version

what makes my 15 bean soup crock pot recipe stand out ? it's all about those unique flavor combinations. from smoky paprika to zesty garlic, each ingredient works harmoniously together creating mouthwatering layers of taste you won't want to miss out on .

foolproof techniques are at the heart of this recipe; you don’t need fancy cooking skills here. i’ve streamlined every step based on expert - tested methods that promise consistent results every time you make it no more guesswork involved.

and let’s not forget about time - saving tips : prep ahead by soaking your beans overnight or use the quick - soak method if you're short on time, just toss everything into the crock pot before heading out for work or errands come home to an inviting aroma filling your kitchen.

health & nutrition highlights

now onto one of my favorite topics : health benefits. the key nutritional highlights of 15 bean soup include high protein content from various legumes along with essential vitamins from added veggies like carrots and celery, it’s naturally low in fat while delivering hearty fiber which keeps you feeling full longer .

for those mindful about dietary considerations this soup accommodates gluten - free diets easily (just check your broth.), plus it's totally customizable based on personal preferences. wellness advantages abound here too; consuming legumes regularly supports heart health while aiding digestion thanks to their fiber richness .

as far as balanced nutrition facts go ? you can expect approximately 210 calories per serving packed with around 12 grams of protein that's pretty impressive for comfort food.

recipe at a glance

ready for some practical details ? here’s what you need :

• total preparation time : just about 20 minutes (not including soaking time.)
• skill level required : easy peasy – suitable even for novice cooks.
• serving size details : this recipe serves between 6 - 8 people; perfect when feeding family or friends .
• cost efficiency : using dried beans makes this dish super budget - friendly compared other meal options you’ll be impressed at how little you'll spend versus how much deliciousness you'll get.

so grab yourself some dried beans and dive into making scrumptious 15 bean soup crock pot , where tradition meets innovation right from your kitchen.

premium ingredients guide

premium core ingredients

1, 15 bean soup mix (16 oz)

• measurement : one package .
• quality indicators : look for a variety of beans that include great northern, kidney, and pinto among others in the mix, the beans should be whole with no signs of decay or discoloration .
• selection tips : check the expiration date on the package to ensure freshness, opt for organic if possible for better quality and taste .
• storage guidance : store unopened packages in a cool, dry place, once opened, transfer to an airtight container to maintain freshness .

1, medium onion (1)

• measurement : one medium - sized onion, diced .
• quality indicators : choose firm onions with smooth skin and no soft spots or sprouting .
• selection tips : yellow onions are versatile for cooking; however, sweet onions can add a milder flavor if preferred.
• storage guidance : keep onions in a well - ventilated area away from potatoes to prevent sprouting .

1, garlic cloves (2)

• measurement : two cloves minced .
• quality indicators : look for plump bulbs with tight skins; avoid any that feel soft or have dark spots .
• selection tips : fresh garlic will have more robust flavor compared to pre - minced varieties in jars .
• storage guidance : unpeeled cloves can last weeks at room temperature; once peeled or chopped, store them in the fridge .

1, carrots (2) & celery stalks (2)

• measurements : diced carrots and celery stalks both need two of each .
• quality indicators : pick firm carrots without wrinkles or blemishes; celery should be crisp with vibrant green leaves intact .
• selection tips : baby carrots are convenient but may lack some flavor go for whole ones when possible. – storage guidance : store uncut vegetables in crisper drawers of your fridge wrapped loosely in plastic .

1, canned diced tomatoes (14 .5 oz) – measurement : one can undrained – quality indicators : select cans free from dents or rust; choose “no salt added” varieties if you’re watching sodium intake . – selection tips : fire - roasted tomatoes offer a smoky depth that elevates flavors. – storage guidance : unused canned tomatoes can stay fresh until their best - by date as long as they remain sealed .

1, * vegetable broth/chicken broth (6 cups) measure six cups total quality indicators depend on low - sodium options being available without preservatives always check labels. store opened broth containers tightly sealed

signature seasoning blend

1, * ground cumin (1 tsp) measurement is one teaspoon quality indicators include rich aroma rather than stale odors selection tips involve looking at packaging dates closely. storage guidance suggests keeping it airtight away from sunlight

2 .* smoked paprika (1 tsp) use one teaspoon measurement again here choose deep red color indicating freshness.

3 .* dried thyme & black pepper ( ½ tsp each ) + for thyme’s measure just half - a - teaspoon suffices while also using black pepper too likewise; + selecting dried herbs means ensuring they smell aromatic.

4 .* salt to taste ( start with about ½ tsp ) + start small then adjust according to preference after the soup cooks down nicely.

smart substitutions

you might not always have every ingredient on hand when cooking this delicious "15 bean soup crock pot ." luckily there are plenty of alternatives :

• swap out vegetable broth with water plus additional seasonings like bay leaves if necessary.
• if you don’t have kale/spinach handy use swiss chard instead it works wonders too during colder months.

dietary swaps :

• for gluten - free variations make sure your broth remains certified gluten - free too before using it here.

emergency replacements :

• in case you're missing cumin try chili powder instead it’ll give it some kick.

seasonal variations :

• use fresh garden veggies whenever possible zucchini and bell peppers complement beautifully as substitutes during summer harvests.

kitchen equipment essentials

to whip up this hearty meal smoothly you'll need some trusty tools :

• a reliable crock pot is crucial you want one that’s roomy enough. aim for something between four - quart minimum size wise towards larger models depending upon family size needs . . .

recommended appliances ? well . . .

• consider investing into immersion blenders they’ll help thicken soups perfectly by blending right inside pots themselves effortlessly . . .

helpful gadgets ? oh yes…

don’t forget those measuring spoons. accurate measurements save so much headache later trust me on this . . .

home alternatives could do magic such as using basic stockpots over crock pots directly but beware timing varies drastically here which leads us back into patience territory . . .

pro ingredient tips

picking premium ingredients doesn’t mean breaking bank accounts either

look closely. fresh produce often found locally tends toward better prices especially farmers’ markets nearby offer unbelievable selections throughout seasons whilst supporting local businesses simultaneously..

don’t skip inspections. when buying bulk items look out mostly concerning consistency across all bags chosen carefully through visual checks leading directly towards fresher choices ultimately…

keep spices stored properly dark cabinets work wonders preventing fading flavors over time while also prolonging shelf lives significantly longer than average otherwise…

expert cooking method for 15 bean soup in a crock pot

making the perfect 15 bean soup in a crock pot is all about preparation and technique, with just a few simple steps, you'll have a delicious meal that warms your soul, let’s dive right into it.

essential preparation steps

mise en place details

start by gathering all your ingredients : one package of 15 bean soup mix, diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrots and celery, canned tomatoes, vegetable or chicken broth, and spices, having everything ready makes cooking smoother .

prep techniques

rinse the beans under cold water to remove any debris, if you have time (and patience), soak them overnight in enough water to cover them by two inches; this helps with even cooking, if you're short on time hey, life happens. you can quick - soak them by boiling for five minutes and letting them sit for an hour .

while those beans are soaking away, chop your veggies. dice one medium onion and mince two cloves of garlic, then get to chopping two carrots and two celery stalks. you might want to put on some music i always find i chop quicker with my favorite tunes playing .

time management

you’ll need about 20 minutes for prep work before diving into the actual cooking process, this includes sorting through your beans and prepping your veggies like a pro.

organization tips

keep everything organized. it really helps if you have bowls or containers set up for each ingredient as you prep, this way it’s easy when you move on to assembling everything later it’s almost like having an assembly line in your kitchen.

professional cooking method

step - by - step process

1, once soaked (or quick - soaked), drain the beans if necessary . 1, add all the soaked beans into your crock pot . 1, toss in those chopped onions, minced garlic, diced carrots and celery along with one can of undrained diced tomatoes . 1, pour six cups of vegetable broth over everything you want it nice and soupy. 1, stir in spices : add cumin (1 tsp), smoked paprika (1 tsp), thyme (½ tsp), black pepper (½ tsp) plus salt to taste .

temperature control

set your crock pot to low heat for about eight hours or high heat for four hours; both ways yield tender beans full of flavor .

timing precision

if you're using kale or spinach as optional add - ins which i highly recommend because they’re super nutritious add these during the last half - hour of cooking so they don’t get mushy .

expert techniques

professional methods

when adding ingredients into the crock pot, layer them thoughtfully; start with dry items at the bottom followed by wet ones on top the buildup creates better flavors during cooking.

critical steps

always check towards the end taste testing is key. you may need more seasoning depending on how salty your broth was initially .

precision points

for thicker consistency ? blend a cup of soup mixture then return it back into the pot before serving a little magic trick that packs extra flavor while thickening things up nicely.

success strategies

troubleshooting tips

if you notice too much liquid after cooking ? simply let it simmer uncovered for another 30 minutes until desired thickness is achieved; no harm done there.

also keep an eye out during cooking you don’t want things burning around edges; sometimes moving things around gently will help avoid sticking issues .

quality assurance

make sure every bite has balanced flavors from spices if something feels off when tasting adjust accordingly but do remember less is more at first; you can always add more salt/hot sauce later if needed.

perfect results guide

after hours spent letting this simmer away oh - so - deliciously . ., trust me it’ll be worth every second. serve hot alongside crusty bread or fresh salad it pairs perfectly together giving that cozy feel we all crave especially as temperatures drop outside.

enjoy every spoonful knowing you've mastered making this comforting "15 bean soup" effortlessly thanks to these expert tips from prep through serving and hey don't forget there's plenty left over too which means lunch tomorrow sorted without lifting another finger. happy cooking..

success guaranteed tips

when making your 15 bean soup in a crock pot , a few tried - and - true tips can elevate your dish to the next level, first off, soaking the beans overnight is crucial, it not only helps soften them but also reduces cooking time, if you’re in a hurry, quick - soaking works just as well.

sautéing onions and garlic before adding them to the pot gives an extra layer of flavor that’s simply divine, i learned this the hard way after my first batch came out . ., well, let’s just say it was "a bit bland ." also, taste as you go. this will help you adjust seasonings based on personal preference or broth saltiness .

finally, if you want to make sure every bite is packed with flavor, consider blending a portion of the soup for a creamy texture before serving, trust me; these little tricks guarantee success.

perfect presentation

now that you've mastered cooking, let’s talk about how to serve up that beautiful bowl of 15 bean soup . plating doesn't have to be fancy; sometimes simplicity speaks volumes, a deep bowl showcasing vibrant colors always catches the eye .

for garnishing ideas, fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley sprinkled on top add both color and freshness, you could even throw in some sliced avocado or crumbled tortilla chips for an extra crunch yum.

pair your soup with crusty bread or cornbread on the side for something hearty and satisfying, you could also serve it alongside a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance flavors beautifully .

storage & make - ahead

if you're looking to prepare meals ahead of time (who isn’t ?), this is where 15 bean soup shines. store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 5 days just make sure they cool down completely first.

to freeze it ? just pour into freezer - safe bags or containers and label them with dates you’ll thank yourself later when you have homemade comfort food at your fingertips. when reheating from frozen ? let it thaw overnight in the fridge and heat gently on low until warmed through .

remember soup often tastes even better after sitting for a day because all those flavors get cozy together.

creative variations

the beauty of crock pot 15 bean soup lies in its versatility. want more spice ? toss in some diced jalapeños or hot sauce when cooking, prefer something heartier ? adding cooked sausage or shredded chicken transforms this into an entirely new dish .

thinking seasonal ? in winter months, root veggies like sweet potatoes can give added sweetness while during summer months fresh zucchini adds brightness without overpowering other flavors .

don't forget regional variations too think about incorporating ingredients from different cuisines : maybe cumin and coriander for mexican flair or bay leaves and thyme for classic french vibes.

expert faq solutions

got questions about making your bean soup ? no worries i’ve got answers. one common concern is whether it's okay if beans are slightly undercooked at first; they’ll continue softening as they simmer away throughout the day .

another question often raised involves seasoning : what do i do if it's too salty ? try adding more water/broth along with some additional vegetables it balances everything out nicely.

lastly, don’t stress over leftovers getting thick after refrigeration; simply stir in some vegetable broth while reheating until desired consistency returns .

complete nutrition guide

let’s break down what makes this humble yet delicious 15 bean soup so nutritious : per serving (about one cup), we’re looking at around 210 calories packed full of protein (~12g) thanks largely due its variety beans which contribute dietary fiber (~10g) essential for digestive health too.

this recipe fits well within many diets since it's naturally vegetarian/vegan unless modified otherwise by adding meats a solid choice whether you're counting macros or just want good - for - you comfort food without compromising taste.

as far as portion guidance goes : one serving tends toward being filling enough alone but feel free double - up servings depending upon hunger levels or those grumbling stomachs around dinner table . . .

happy cooking everyone can’t wait to hear how yours turns out.

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