Nourishing Asparagus Bean Soup
This Nourishing Asparagus Bean Soup, affectionately known as the Heart-Saving Soup, is a wholesome and vibrant dish bursting with flavors and nutrients. Packed with protein-rich white navy or kidney beans, crisp asparagus, and a medley of aromatic vegetables, this hearty soup is not only delicious but also a great way to support heart health. Each spoonful offers a delicate balance of creamy texture and fresh, earthy flavors, perfect for enjoying on a chilly day or as a part of a balanced meal. Prepare ahead of time by soaking the beans overnight for a convenient and satisfying dish that serves 7-8 people.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
white beans or kidney beans
2 cups (soaked overnight and rinsed)
water
8 cups (for soaking and cooking)
onions
2 (chopped)
garlic cloves
3 (crushed (optional))
olive oil
1 tablespoon (for sautéing)
carrots
3 (chopped)
celery
2 stalks (chopped)
asparagus
1 bunch (chopped)
tomato paste
10 ounces (2 small cans)
black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
dried oregano leaves
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
salt
1 teaspoon (to taste)
fresh parsley
2 tablespoons (chopped (optional))
Instructions
1
Start by placing the beans in a large saucepan and covering them with ample water. Allow the beans to soak overnight for optimal softness (at least 5 hours is recommended). Once soaked, discard the soaking water and rinse the beans thoroughly.
2
Transfer the rinsed beans to a large soup pot and add 8 cups of fresh water. Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot, allowing it to simmer.
3
In a separate large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and crushed garlic (if using) and sauté for about 3 minutes, until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
4
Incorporate the chopped carrots, celery, and asparagus into the saucepan. Continue to sauté for around 8 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften.
5
Combine the sautéed vegetable mixture with the simmering beans in the soup pot. Stir well to incorporate.
6
Next, add the tomato paste, black pepper, dried oregano, and salt to the pot. Mix until everything is evenly combined.
7
Allow the soup to simmer on low heat for 1 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender and fully cooked.
8
Once the beans are soft, stir in the fresh chopped parsley (if desired). Let it cook for an additional 2 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Nourishing Asparagus Bean Soup?
Nourishing Asparagus Bean Soup, also known as Heart-Saving Soup, is a vibrant, nutrient-dense dish made with white navy or kidney beans, crisp asparagus, and aromatic vegetables.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe serves approximately 7 to 8 people.
What types of beans are recommended for this soup?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of either white navy beans or kidney beans.
How long should the beans be soaked?
It is recommended to soak the beans overnight, or for at least 5 hours, to ensure optimal softness.
Can I use canned beans instead of dry ones?
While the recipe specifies soaking dry beans, you can use canned beans; however, you will need to adjust the cooking time as canned beans are already soft.
How much water is needed to cook the beans?
After soaking and rinsing, the beans should be simmered in 8 cups of fresh water.
Is this soup heart-healthy?
Yes, it is packed with fiber and nutrients specifically chosen to support heart health.
What oil is used for sautéing the vegetables?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of olive oil for sautéing the onions and garlic.
What aromatic vegetables are included in the base?
The base includes onions, garlic, carrots, and celery.
How much garlic should I use?
The recipe suggests 3 crushed garlic cloves, though they are listed as optional.
How long do I sauté the onions and garlic?
Sauté the chopped onions and crushed garlic for about 3 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant.
When do I add the carrots, celery, and asparagus?
These vegetables should be added to the saucepan after the onions have softened and then sautéed for an additional 8 minutes.
How much asparagus is needed?
The recipe calls for 1 bunch of chopped asparagus.
When do I combine the vegetables with the beans?
Combine the sautéed vegetable mixture with the simmering beans in the soup pot once the vegetables have softened.
What spices are used to season the soup?
The soup is seasoned with 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
How much tomato paste does the recipe require?
The recipe uses 10 ounces of tomato paste, which is typically 2 small cans.
How long does the soup need to simmer?
The soup should simmer on low heat for 1 to 2 hours until the beans are tender.
How do I know when the soup is ready?
The soup is ready when the beans are soft and fully cooked, and the flavors have melded together.
Is fresh parsley required?
Fresh parsley is optional; 2 tablespoons can be stirred in at the very end for extra freshness.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this is a vegetarian and vegan-friendly recipe as it uses only plant-based ingredients.
Should I use the soaking water for the soup?
No, you should discard the soaking water and rinse the beans thoroughly before cooking them in fresh water.
Can I adjust the salt and pepper?
Yes, the salt, pepper, and oregano amounts can be adjusted to your personal taste.
How many carrots are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 3 chopped carrots.
How many stalks of celery are needed?
You will need 2 chopped stalks of celery.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
While the instructions are for a stovetop, you can adapt it for a slow cooker by adding all ingredients (except parsley) and cooking on low for 6-8 hours.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, all the listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Does this soup provide protein?
Yes, the white navy or kidney beans provide a significant amount of plant-based protein.
Can I store leftovers?
Yes, this soup stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for several days.
Can this soup be frozen?
Yes, bean-based soups generally freeze very well for up to 3 months.
What is the texture of this soup?
The soup offers a delicate balance of a creamy bean texture and fresh, earthy vegetable flavors.