Introduction: Warm up your soul with a bowl of Hearty Sausage and Bean Soup. This robust and flavorful soup combines savory sausage, tender beans, and aromatic vegetables in a rich, comforting broth. Perfect for chilly nights or when you need a wholesome, satisfying meal, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.
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Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 40 minutes
- Total time: 55 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 6
- Serving size: 1 bowl (about 350ml)
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sodium: 980mg
Ingredients
- 300g (10.5oz) Italian sausage, sliced
- 1 can (400g or 14oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (400g or 14oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 large onion, chopped (approx. 150g or 5.3oz)
- 2 carrots, diced (approx. 120g or 4.2oz)
- 2 celery stalks, diced (approx. 100g or 3.5oz)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (400g or 14oz) diced tomatoes
- 1.5 liters (6 cups) chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Method of Preparation
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage slices and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, and bay leaf. Cook for 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Add the chicken broth, cannellini beans, and kidney beans to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Return the sausage to the pot and simmer for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove the bay leaf and discard. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Use a variety of beans to add different textures and flavors to the soup.
- If you prefer a spicier soup, use hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- For a thicker soup, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot before adding the sausage back in.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, this soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat.
- Can I freeze Sausage and Bean Soup? Absolutely! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.
- What other vegetables can I add? Feel free to add spinach, kale, or zucchini for added nutrients and flavor.
- Can I use dried beans instead of canned? Yes, but you'll need to soak and cook them beforehand. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Enjoy a comforting bowl of Hearty Sausage and Bean Soup, perfect for any occasion. This delicious and nutritious dish combines the richness of sausage with the wholesome goodness of beans, creating a meal that will warm you from the inside out. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a hearty lunch, this soup is a wonderful addition to your recipe collection.