16 Bean Soup Recipe Vegetarian: Easy, Hearty, and Delicious

Nothing warms the soul quite like a hearty bowl of bean soup, especially when packed with a variety of flavors and nutrients. Our 16 bean soup recipe vegetarian is the perfect comfort food for chilly days or whenever you’re craving something wholesome and satisfying.

This vibrant medley of beans delivers a rich texture and a delightful depth of flavor, all without any meat or animal products. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your routine, this soup will quickly become a family favorite.

What makes this soup truly special is the combination of sixteen different beans, each adding its unique taste and nutritional benefits. Slow-cooked to perfection with fresh vegetables and fragrant herbs, it’s a nutritious powerhouse that’s also budget-friendly.

Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and easy to prepare, making it an ideal recipe for meal prep or a cozy weeknight dinner. Get ready to enjoy a bowl that’s as hearty as it is healthy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This 16 bean soup is a celebration of flavors and textures, combining a colorful variety of beans with fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your recipe collection:

• High in protein and fiber: The mix of beans makes this soup a nutritious powerhouse, promoting digestive health and keeping you full longer.
• Completely vegetarian and vegan-friendly: No meat or dairy needed, making it perfect for plant-based diets.
• Budget-friendly and filling: Beans are an affordable source of nutrition, and this soup stretches a little into multiple hearty servings.
• Make-ahead friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day and freezes well for busy weeks.
• Customizable: Easily adapt it with your favorite vegetables, spices, or herbs to suit your taste.

Ingredients

• 1 package (about 1 lb) 16 bean mix (usually dry, with a variety of beans like kidney, navy, pinto, black, lima, etc.)
• 8 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
• Optional: A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for heat

Equipment

• Large bowl for soaking beans
• Heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Knife and cutting board
• Wooden spoon or ladle
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Colander or strainer
• Optional: Slow cooker or Instant Pot if you prefer an alternative cooking method

Instructions

1. Soak the beans: Rinse the 16 bean mix thoroughly in cold water. Place the beans in a large bowl and cover with at least 3 inches of cold water. Soak overnight or for at least 8 hours. This softens the beans and reduces cooking time.
2. Drain and rinse the beans: After soaking, drain the beans and rinse under cold running water. Set aside.
3. Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent.
4. Add garlic and spices: Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Add beans, broth, and tomatoes: Pour in the soaked beans, vegetable broth, and the can of diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir well to combine.
6. Add bay leaves and bring to a boil: Toss in the bay leaves. Increase the heat and bring the soup to a gentle boil.
7. Simmer the soup: Lower the heat to a simmer, cover loosely, and cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally and add more broth or water if the soup becomes too thick.
8. Season to taste: Remove bay leaves. Add salt and pepper to taste. Adjust spices as desired.
9. Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot with your favorite bread or crackers.

Tips & Variations

“For a quicker version, use canned beans but reduce cooking time and adjust seasoning accordingly.”

• Bean soak alternative: If short on time, use the quick soak method by boiling the beans for 5 minutes, then removing from heat and letting them soak for 1 hour.
• Add more veggies: Feel free to toss in diced potatoes, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add chipotle peppers in adobo or cayenne pepper for a smoky spicy kick.
• Use a slow cooker: Combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours for a set-it-and-forget-it meal. Check seasoning at the end.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or blend part of the soup for a creamier texture.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This soup is perfectly satisfying on its own but also pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Try serving it with warm crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.

For a cozy, wholesome dinner, top with a dollop of vegan sour cream or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast to add a cheesy flavor.

For more hearty vegetarian meals, explore our Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas or enjoy a delightful sweet treat after your soup with the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious.

Looking for bread to soak up your delicious soup? Check out our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves for a perfect homemade companion.

Conclusion

The 16 bean soup recipe vegetarian is a flavorful, nutritious, and comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable. Its rich blend of beans and vegetables offers a satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner, especially on cooler days when you need something to warm you up from the inside out.

By making this soup a regular part of your meal rotation, you’ll enjoy the benefits of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins all in one bowl. Plus, it’s a practical and budget-conscious recipe that encourages you to use pantry staples creatively.

Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or just looking for a delicious meatless option, this soup delivers on taste and nutrition.

Explore more vegetarian delights on our site and discover the joy of plant-based cooking with recipes like Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals or the creamy goodness of our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes.

Happy cooking!

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