15 Bean Soup: A Cozy Recipe to Warm Your Soul

Name: 15 Bean Soup: A Cozy Recipe to Warm Your Soul
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup 15 bean mix; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups vegetable broth; 1 can diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

September 14, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite cozy dish: 15 bean soup! This hearty, nutritious soup is like a warm hug in a bowl, packed with flavors and a rainbow of beans that not only taste amazing but are also super good for you. I remember the first time I made this – my kitchen smelled incredible with all those aromatic vegetables and spices mingling together. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to whip up a big pot every week!

15 bean soup - detail 1

What I love most about this 15 bean soup is how versatile it is. You can enjoy it as a main dish or a delightful side, and it’s perfect for meal prepping. Plus, it’s vegan and loaded with protein, thanks to all those beans, making it a fantastic option for anyone looking to eat healthier. Seriously, it’s a win-win! So, if you’re ready to take your taste buds on a hearty adventure, let’s dive right into the ingredients and get cooking!

Ingredients for 15 Bean Soup

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious 15 bean soup. I promise, you won’t need anything too fancy!

1 cup 15 bean mix
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups vegetable broth
1 can diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

That’s it! Just a handful of wholesome ingredients to whip up a big, comforting pot of soup. Make sure to rinse and soak those beans overnight for the best results. You’ll be amazed at how everything comes together!

How to Prepare 15 Bean Soup

Alright, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making this incredible 15 bean soup! It’s super straightforward, and I promise, you’ll feel like a culinary rockstar by the end. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a big, hearty pot of deliciousness to enjoy!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, you’ll want to rinse your 15 bean mix under cold water to get rid of any dust or debris. Then, soak those beans in a large bowl of water overnight. This helps them cook evenly and really brings out their flavor. Don’t skip this step!
When you’re ready to cook, heat a large pot over medium heat. Add a splash of oil, then toss in your diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they’re nice and soft. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, and it’s pure bliss!
Next, add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for just another minute. You want to release that garlicky goodness without burning it. Wow, the smell is heavenly!
Now it’s time to drain your soaked beans and add them to the pot. Stir everything together so the beans get to know those veggies a bit.
Pour in the 6 cups of vegetable broth and the can of diced tomatoes. Give it a good stir, and let’s spice things up! Sprinkle in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. You can adjust the seasonings later, so don’t stress too much about it now.
Bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1.5 hours. This is where the magic happens! You’ll want to stir it occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom.
After 1.5 hours, check the beans for doneness. They should be tender and delicious! If you like a thicker soup, feel free to mash some beans against the side of the pot with a spoon to create a creamier texture.
Before serving, taste your soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. Maybe a pinch more salt or a dash of pepper? You know what you like!

And that’s it! You’ve just made a fabulous 15 bean soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Serve it warm, and enjoy every comforting spoonful! I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s incredibly hearty and filling, making it perfect for chilly nights or when you need a cozy meal.
Loaded with plant-based protein and fiber, this soup is a nutritional powerhouse that keeps you satisfied.
The preparation is super simple and quick, especially if you soak the beans overnight—just chop, sauté, and simmer!
It’s versatile! You can enjoy it as a main dish or a side, and it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
This 15 bean soup freezes beautifully, so you can make a big batch and have meals ready to go for busy days.
The flavors are customizable; you can easily add your favorite spices or veggies to make it your own.
It’s a one-pot wonder, which means less cleanup—yay for that!
Every bite is packed with heartwarming goodness, making it a delightful dish to share with family and friends.

Tips for Success

Now that you’re ready to create your 15 bean soup masterpiece, I’ve got a few handy tips to ensure it turns out just right! These little secrets will help you nail the flavors and texture every time.

Adjusting Spices: Don’t be afraid to play around with spices! If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños. For a smokier flavor, a dash of smoked paprika works wonders. Just remember to add spices gradually, tasting as you go!
Thickness Matters: If you prefer a thicker soup, mashing some of the beans against the pot’s side is a great trick. Alternatively, you can remove a cup of the soup, blend it until smooth, and then stir it back in. This gives you that creamy texture without losing any of the heartiness!
Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs at the end of cooking can elevate your soup to the next level. A handful of chopped parsley or cilantro just before serving adds a burst of freshness that’s simply delightful!
Acidity is Key: A splash of lemon juice or vinegar just before serving brightens up the flavors beautifully. It’s amazing how a little acidity can enhance the overall taste of your soup!
Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to throw in other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even sweet potatoes for added nutrition and flavor. Just remember to chop them into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
Don’t Rush the Simmer: Allowing your soup to simmer for the full 1.5 hours really helps the flavors meld together beautifully. Patience is key here, so resist the urge to skip this step!
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers (which I doubt because it’s so good!), let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for about 5 days or you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just remember to label your containers!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to making the best 15 bean soup ever. Enjoy the process and happy cooking!

Variations of 15 Bean Soup

One of the best things about 15 bean soup is how adaptable it is! I love to switch things up depending on what I have in my kitchen or what I’m craving. Here are some fun and delicious variations that’ll keep your soup exciting and flavorful!

Veggie Delight: Toss in a handful of chopped spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for a nutritious boost. You can also add bell peppers, zucchini, or corn to bring in some color and sweetness!
Smoky Bean Soup: For a smoky twist, throw in some diced smoked sausage or bacon. Just sauté them with the veggies at the beginning to infuse that rich flavor throughout the soup.
Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. You could even stir in some chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for that smoky, spicy goodness.
Herbed Up: Fresh herbs can take your soup to the next level! Try adding thyme or oregano while it simmers, or sprinkle some fresh basil or cilantro right before serving for a burst of freshness.
Creamy Comfort: For a creamy version, blend a portion of the soup after it’s cooked and stir it back in. Alternatively, add a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of sour cream just before serving for a luscious finish.
Seasonal Veggies: Keep it seasonal! In the fall, add some diced butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness. In the summer, fresh tomatoes or summer squash can brighten up the soup beautifully!
Protein Boost: Add some cooked quinoa or lentils for an extra protein punch. They’ll blend in perfectly with the beans and make your soup even heartier!

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create a version of 15 bean soup that’s uniquely yours. It’s all about experimenting and finding what you love best. Happy cooking, and enjoy the adventure of flavors!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Okay, let’s talk about what to do with any leftovers from your delicious 15 bean soup—if there are any! I mean, who wouldn’t want to savor this hearty goodness more than once? Storing it properly is key to keeping all those amazing flavors intact.

First off, let your soup cool completely before you transfer it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation, which can make your soup watery. I usually use glass containers because they’re easy to clean and don’t retain odors. You can keep your soup in the fridge for about 5 days, so it’s perfect for meal prep! Just make sure to label it with the date so you know when to enjoy it by.

If you want to store it for longer, freezing is a great option! You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave a little room at the top of the container or bag since liquids expand when frozen. I like to portion it out into single servings so I can grab a quick meal whenever I need one. Just remember to label those containers too—trust me, it helps!

When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, you’ve got a couple of options for reheating. If you’re in a hurry, you can pop it in the microwave! Just heat it in short intervals, stirring in between, until it’s heated through. If you prefer the stovetop, pour the soup into a pot and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally. It should heat up nicely in about 10-15 minutes. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning if needed before serving!

And there you have it! Easy storage and reheating tips to make sure your 15 bean soup stays flavorful and delicious. Enjoy every comforting spoonful again and again!

Nutritional Information for 15 Bean Soup

Alright, let’s break down the goodness packed into each serving of this incredibly hearty 15 bean soup! Knowing the nutritional value really helps when you’re trying to balance your meals. Here’s what you can expect:

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 220
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Sugar: 3g
Fiber: 12g
Protein: 12g
Sodium: 400mg
Cholesterol: 0mg

This soup is not just filling; it’s also a fantastic source of protein and fiber, making it perfect for keeping you satisfied and energized throughout the day. Plus, with its low fat and cholesterol-free profile, you can enjoy it guilt-free! So go ahead, serve up a bowl (or two) and relish in all that goodness!

FAQ About 15 Bean Soup

Got questions about making this scrumptious 15 bean soup? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I hear, along with my trusty answers to help you out.

Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can use canned beans. Just skip the soaking step and add them in when you would normally add the soaked beans. Just be sure to rinse them well to cut down on sodium!

How can I make this soup spicier?

If you’re a spice lover, add in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper while sautéing the veggies. You can also stir in some hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes right before serving for an extra kick!

What if I don’t have vegetable broth?

No problem at all! You can use water, but I recommend enhancing the flavor with some bouillon cubes or seasoning blends. You could also use chicken broth if you’re not keeping it vegan!

How do I know when the beans are done cooking?

The beans should be tender and creamy, but not mushy. Give them a taste after about 1.5 hours of simmering. If they’re not quite there yet, let them cook a bit longer, checking every 10 minutes or so.

Can I add meat to this soup?

Of course! If you’d like to add some protein, diced ham, bacon, or sausage can be delicious. Just cook it with the veggies at the start to let the flavors meld together!

Is there a way to make this soup thicker?

Yes! If you want a creamier texture, simply mash some of the beans against the pot’s side with a spoon or blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in. It’s a great trick for achieving that hearty consistency!

How long does 15 bean soup last in the fridge?

Your soup will last about 5 days in the fridge. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. It’s perfect for meal prep and enjoying throughout the week!

Can I freeze 15 bean soup?

You bet! This soup freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Just remember to label your containers so you know what’s inside!

What are some good side dishes to serve with this soup?

I love pairing this hearty 15 bean soup with some crusty bread or a fresh salad. You could also serve it with cornbread or grilled cheese for a cozy meal combo!

If you have any more questions or if something’s unclear, feel free to drop a comment below! I’m here to help you make the best 15 bean soup ever!

For more information on the health benefits of beans, check out this Healthline article.

To learn more about meal prepping, visit EatingWell’s meal prep guide.

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.