| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 2 hours | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 315 | 5g | 0.75g | 50g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 7g | 17g | 18g | 0.41g |
Bean Soup with Savory, a dish that packs a punch with flavors and nutrients, is a recipe I hold dear to my heart. It’s not only a comforting bowl of warmth on a gloomy day, but also a delightful union of my Pacific Northwest upbringing and my Japanese heritage. The fusion of ingredients from both worlds result in a taste that’s both familiar and novel at the same time. And it’s not your typical fruit-based recipe, making it a delightful surprise for your taste buds.
The Health Benefits
The myriad health benefits of the Bean Soup with Savory are quite impressive. For starters, pinto beans are a great source of dietary fiber and protein, supporting digestive health and providing slow-release energy. Not to mention, their rich content of vitamins and minerals, particularly iron and magnesium, contribute to overall well-being. The tomatoes, spinach, and lemon juice in the recipe provide the body with a wealth of beneficial antioxidants and vitamin C, which aid in boosting the immune system. Furthermore, the olive oil is packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while the various spices like cayenne and cumin provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
Similar and Complementary Dishes
When I prepare this recipe, I’m often reminded of a classic Japanese dish called Nikujaga, a hearty meat and potato stew. It shares a similar comforting essence with Bean Soup with Savory and is filled with Japanese flavors. Pairing these two dishes could result in an exceptional fusion taste experience.
Another dish that pairs well with our Bean Soup is a simple mixed greens salad – the refreshing crunch of the salad balances the heartiness of the soup. For a true Pacific Northwest experience, I would recommend pairing it with a glass of local Washington State Chardonnay. Its crispness and fruity notes would complement the robust flavors of the soup wonderfully.
The versatility of Bean Soup with Savory allows it to stand alone as a fulfilling main or work as a complementary side dish. Whether it’s served on a cozy winter evening at home or as part of a grand holiday feast, it consistently earns its place at the table.
What You’ll Need
- 3 cups dried pinto beans
- 8 cups water
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried savory
- 2 bay leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chopped fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
Method
Step One
Soak the dried pinto beans in the 8 cups of water overnight. This will help to soften them up and reduce cooking time. If you’re in a rush, you can also do a quick soak by boiling the beans in water for 2 minutes and then letting them sit for 1 hour.
Step Two
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, cooking until they become fragrant and the onions are translucent, usually around 5 minutes.
Step Three
Add the diced tomatoes to the pot. Cook these for another 2-3 minutes until they begin to break down.
Step Four
Drain the beans and add them to the pot. Then, add the ground cumin, dried savory, bay leaves, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt. Mix everything until all ingredients are combined.
Step Five
Cover the pot and let it simmer over low to medium heat for around 2 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the beans are tender.
Step Six
A few minutes before serving, stir in the chopped spinach, cilantro, and fresh lemon juice. This will add a fresh and vibrant flavor to your soup.
Step Seven
Let the soup rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This will also let the spinach wilt from the heat of the soup. After that, your Bean Soup with Savory is ready to be served. Enjoy!
