15 BEAN SOUP

This 15-bean soup is a rich blend of beans, lentils, onions, celery, carrots, and smoked sausage, all simmered in a flavorful broth with smoked paprika, chili powder, and thyme. Packed with vibrant colors and nourishing vegetables, it’s the perfect bowl to warm both your body and soul.

INGREDIENTS

  • 10 oz 15-bean soup mix
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 3 ribs celery, chopped
  • 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground chili powder
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried marjoram or oregano
  • ¼ tsp ground cayenne pepper
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 (15 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
  • 4 carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

  • Rinse the beans in a colander, discarding any debris. Place them in a large pot with cold water, cover, and soak overnight or for at least 8 hours. Drain and rinse again.
  • In a large Dutch oven, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion, celery, and smoked sausage, cooking until the onions and celery soften and the sausage browns.
  • Lower the heat to medium and stir in the garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, thyme, marjoram (or oregano), and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently. Add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed.
  • Add the soaked beans, chicken broth, fire-roasted tomatoes, carrots, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
  • Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the beans and carrots are tender. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

NOTES

  • Advance preparation is necessary, as the beans need to soak overnight.
  • The 15-bean soup mix is found in the dried beans aisle of most grocery stores. You only need half the bag; save the rest for a future batch. Discard the included flavor packet and use your own spices.
  • For added color, peel the carrots to highlight their vibrant orange hue.
  • If you don’t have marjoram, oregano can be used as a substitute. However, marjoram’s mild, sweet, and citrusy flavor is worth trying if you haven’t already.
  • Remember to remove the bay leaf before serving due to its sharp edges.

NUTRITION (PER SERVING)

  • Calories: 265 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 11g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg
  • Sodium: 575mg
  • Potassium: 491mg
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Vitamin A: 5524 IU
  • Vitamin C: 8mg
  • Calcium: 41mg
  • Iron: 2mg