Spanish Bean Soup Recipe From Columbia Restaurant Made Easy

Spanish Bean Soup from Columbia Restaurant is a beloved classic that brings the rich, comforting flavors of Spanish cuisine right to your kitchen. Known for its hearty ingredients and robust taste, this soup is perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests with a warm, flavorful starter.

Combining tender beans, savory vegetables, and a touch of smoky paprika, it offers a satisfying and nutritious meal that’s both simple to prepare and utterly delicious.

Whether you’re new to Spanish cooking or a seasoned foodie, this recipe captures the authentic essence of Columbia Restaurant’s famous dish. With fresh ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can enjoy this traditional soup anytime.

Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Spanish Bean Soup recipe is a standout for many reasons. First, it’s a hearty and wholesome dish that’s packed with protein and fiber from the beans, making it both filling and nutritious.

The soup’s layers of flavor come from simple, fresh ingredients like garlic, onions, and smoky Spanish paprika, which create an aromatic and inviting broth.

Additionally, it’s incredibly versatile. You can make it vegetarian by choosing vegetable stock or add your favorite meats for extra richness.

It’s also a fantastic make-ahead meal that tastes even better the next day. With its comforting warmth and authentic taste, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups dried pink or small red beans, rinsed and soaked overnight
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium tomato, peeled and chopped
• 1 teaspoon smoked Spanish paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: 4 oz chorizo or smoked sausage, sliced

Equipment

• Large bowl (for soaking beans)
• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle (for serving)
• Colander or strainer

Instructions

1. Soak the beans: Place the dried beans in a large bowl, cover with cold water, and soak overnight (at least 8 hours). Drain and rinse before cooking.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced green bell pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the tomato and spices: Stir in the peeled, chopped tomato, smoked Spanish paprika, cumin, and bay leaf. Cook for another 3 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
4. Add beans and broth: Pour in the soaked beans and the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir well and bring to a boil.
5. Simmer the soup: Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer gently for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally and add water if needed to keep the beans covered.
6. Optional sausage addition: If using chorizo or smoked sausage, add it about 20 minutes before the soup is done cooking to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Season to taste: Remove the bay leaf. Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your preference.
8. Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or a light salad.

Tips & Variations

For a creamier texture, you can partially mash some of the cooked beans against the side of the pot before serving.

Try using different types of beans such as cranberry or pinto beans for a slight variation in texture and flavor. For a vegetarian-friendly version, simply use vegetable broth and omit the sausage.

Adding smoked paprika is key to achieving that authentic Spanish flavor, so don’t substitute it with regular paprika.

You can also enhance the soup with a splash of sherry or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness. For extra heartiness, add diced potatoes or carrots during the simmering stage.

Leftovers store well in the fridge and taste fantastic the next day, making this a great make-ahead meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Spanish Bean Soup pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. For a true Spanish-inspired meal, serve it alongside Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or a fresh Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.

If you prefer a heartier complement, crusty artisan bread or garlic breadsticks are excellent choices to soak up the flavorful broth. For a lighter accompaniment, try a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and lemon.

This soup also works well as a starter before dishes like Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food.

Conclusion

Spanish Bean Soup from Columbia Restaurant is a timeless recipe that offers a delicious taste of Spanish tradition. Its rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and simple preparation make it a perfect dish for any season.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining friends, this soup provides warmth and comfort in every spoonful.

With its nutritious beans, fragrant spices, and versatile nature, it’s an excellent choice for both everyday meals and special occasions. We hope this recipe inspires you to bring a touch of Spain into your kitchen and enjoy the soulful satisfaction that only a well-made soup can deliver.

Don’t forget to explore our other recipes for more creative and wholesome meal ideas!

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