Bean soup

Here’s a hearty and flavorful Bean Soup recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
• 1 liter vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 cans (400g each) beans (such as kidney beans, black beans, or cannellini beans), drained and rinsed
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup frozen or fresh spinach or kale (optional, for added greens)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften.

2. Add tomatoes and broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes and broth. Bring to a boil.

3. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.

4. Add beans and seasonings: Add the drained and rinsed beans, thyme (or oregano), bay leaf, and smoked paprika (if using). Simmer for another 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. Add greens (optional): If using spinach or kale, stir it in and cook for an additional 5 minutes until wilted.

6. Season: Remove the bay leaf and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Garnish and serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

This bean soup is filling, nutritious, and perfect for a cozy meal. Enjoy!