This Savory Harvest Bean Soup is the perfect antidote to chilly days. It's hearty, packed with flavor, and brings a delightful warmth to your table. With a simple blend of beans and fresh vegetables, it's as nourishing as it is satisfying.
Kidney beans and black beans are the stars here, providing robust texture and hearty flavor. They soak up the aromatic broth beautifully. Vegetable broth forms the base of our soup, infusing it with a savory depth. Olive oil adds a touch of richness and helps the vegetables soften nicely. The classic trio of onion, carrots, and celery creates a flavorful foundation. Garlic, thyme, and rosemary bring in aromatic warmth, while a bay leaf adds subtle earthiness. A splash of lemon juice at the end brightens everything up. Finally, a sprinkle of parsley offers a fresh finish.
This soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread or a warm, buttery cornbread. For a full meal, serve it alongside a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to contrast the soup’s richness.
Begin by rinsing and soaking the kidney beans and black beans overnight. This not only makes them cook faster but also improves their digestibility. The next day, heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until they are tender and aromatic, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Once your vegetables are soft, stir in the garlic, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Let these cook for just a minute until the garlic is fragrant and the herbs release their aroma. Now, add the soaked beans and the vegetable broth to the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 60 to 75 minutes, or until the beans are tender and have absorbed the flavors of the broth. Remember to stir occasionally and check the beans for tenderness. Once cooked, remove the bay leaf, and stir in the lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
Serve your soup hot, garnished with a generous sprinkle of parsley. The freshness will add a lovely pop of color and flavor.