12 Bean Vegetarian Soup Recipe for a Hearty, Healthy Meal

There’s something deeply comforting about a bowl of hearty bean soup simmering on the stove. With its rich aroma and robust flavors, 12 bean vegetarian soup is a classic that transcends seasons and brings families together.

This soup is a celebration of plant-based nutrition, blending an array of beans with aromatic vegetables and savory herbs. Each spoonful is packed with protein, fiber, and a rainbow of nutrients, making it as nourishing as it is delicious.

Whether you’re craving a cozy winter meal or a light summer supper, this soup is adaptable, satisfying, and budget-friendly. Plus, it’s the perfect make-ahead recipe—flavors deepen and improve overnight.

If you’re looking for a wholesome, easy meal that pleases vegetarians and omnivores alike, you’ll fall in love with this 12 bean vegetarian soup. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make this timeless comfort food at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Satisfying: With 12 varieties of beans, this soup is incredibly filling and rich in plant-based protein.
• Full of Flavor: Aromatic vegetables, herbs, and a blend of spices ensure every bowl is deeply flavorful.
• Nutrient Dense: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, this soup supports a healthy lifestyle.
• Budget-Friendly: Beans are inexpensive, making this a cost-effective meal for the whole family.
• Meal Prep Friendly: The soup stores well and tastes even better the next day, perfect for batch cooking.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out vegetables or beans, or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
• Completely Vegan: No animal products needed—just wholesome, plant-based ingredients.
• Perfect for All Seasons: Serve warm in winter or at room temperature in summer with a crusty bread.

Ingredients

Equipment

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle
• Colander (for rinsing beans)
• Small bowl (for soaking beans, optional)

Instructions

1. Soak the beans:

   Place the 12 bean mix in a large bowl. Cover with water by at least 2 inches and soak overnight (8-12 hours).

   If short on time, use the quick soak: cover beans with water in your soup pot, bring to a boil for 2 minutes, then remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 1 hour. Drain and rinse beans before using.

2. Sauté the aromatics:

   In your large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery.

   Sauté for 6-8 minutes, stirring often, until vegetables are softened and onion is translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.

3. Add spices and tomatoes:

   Sprinkle in the thyme, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the vegetables.

   Add the canned diced tomatoes with their juices, and cook for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.

4. Add beans and broth:

   Pour in the soaked, drained beans and the vegetable broth. Add the bay leaves.

   Stir to combine. Bring the pot to a boil over high heat.

5. Simmer:

   Reduce the heat to low, cover partially with a lid (allowing some steam to escape), and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally, checking for tenderness.

   If the soup thickens too much, add more broth or water as needed.

6. Final seasoning:

   Once the beans are fully tender, taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a splash more lemon juice for brightness. Remove and discard the bay leaves.

7. Garnish and serve:

   Ladle soup into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve hot, with a wedge of lemon on the side if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Bean Mix: If you can’t find a pre-mixed 12 bean blend, combine any dry beans you have on hand—kidney, navy, black, pinto, garbanzo, lentils, black-eyed peas, split peas, adzuki, cranberry, lima, and great northern beans all work well.
• Flavor Boosters: For extra depth, add a splash of tamari or soy sauce, or a dash of liquid smoke. For a slightly spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
• Vegetable Add-ins: Stir in chopped spinach, kale, or chard during the last 10 minutes of simmering. Diced sweet potatoes or potatoes also work beautifully.
• Herb Swaps: Try rosemary, oregano, or basil in place of thyme for different herbal notes.
• Short on Time? Use canned beans (about 6 cans, drained and rinsed) and reduce simmering time to 30 minutes, adding the beans after the vegetables have softened.
• Freezer Friendly: This soup freezes very well. Cool completely, portion into airtight containers, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• “For even more plant-based inspiration, try my Lipton Vegetable Soup Mix Recipes for Easy Family Meals and Recipes Dehydrated Vegetables: Easy Meals and Snacks for delicious, nutritious meal ideas!”

“Letting your soup rest overnight in the fridge enhances the flavors and makes leftovers even tastier. Always remove the bay leaves before serving!”

Nutrition Facts

*Per serving, recipe makes about 8 servings. Nutrition values are approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.

Serving Suggestions

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of rustic sourdough, whole wheat, or garlic bread for dipping.
• Grain Side: Try ladling the soup over cooked brown rice, barley, or farro for an even heartier meal.
• Salad Pairing: Enjoy alongside a crisp green salad, such as arugula with lemon vinaigrette.
• Fresh Herbs: Garnish with more chopped parsley, cilantro, or chives for a burst of freshness.
• Spicy Kick: Top with a swirl of hot sauce or sprinkle with red pepper flakes.
• Meal Combo: For an easy plant-based dinner party menu, serve this soup with Vegan Casserole Recipes: Easy for quick weeknight dinner.

Conclusion

There’s a reason 12 bean vegetarian soup has stood the test of time—it’s wholesome, deeply flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re new to plant-based cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe delivers comfort and nutrition in every bowl.

The medley of beans and vegetables makes it a complete meal, while the simple ingredients and easy steps make it accessible for any home cook. Plus, the leftovers are just as delicious, if not more so, making it a practical choice for meal prepping and busy weeknights.

If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out more plant-based inspiration like Rutabaga Recipes Vegan: Tasty Plant-Based Meal Ideas or experiment with international flavors in these Turkish Veg Recipes: Easy & Flavorful Dishes to Try.

However you serve it, this soup is sure to bring warmth and satisfaction to your table. Happy cooking!

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