Imagine a soup so rich, so comforting, that it transports you straight to the rustic kitchens of Bulgaria with just one spoonful! This traditional Bulgarian White Bean Soup isn't just a meal—it's a heartwarming experience that combines simple ingredients into a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds dance with delight. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you're craving a nutritious, soul-satisfying dish that connects you to centuries of culinary heritage.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 60 mins
Total Time: 75 mins
Cuisine: Bulgarian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried white beans, soaked overnight
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Drain the white beans that have been soaked overnight and rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess starch.
- In a large pot, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add the diced carrots and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Sprinkle the paprika over the vegetables and stir to coat evenly, allowing the spice to release its aroma for about 30 seconds.
- Add the soaked white beans to the pot and pour in the vegetable broth. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Simmer gently for 45-50 minutes, or until the beans are tender and soft.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Once the beans are completely soft and the soup has thickened, remove from heat.
- Ladle the soup into serving bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve hot, optionally with a slice of crusty bread on the side.
Tips
- Soaking is Key: Always soak your dried beans overnight to ensure even cooking and better digestibility. This step reduces cooking time and helps beans become wonderfully tender.
- Don't Rush the Sautéing: Take your time caramelizing the onions and developing deep flavors before adding other ingredients. This builds a rich flavor foundation.
- Paprika Power: Use high-quality Hungarian or Bulgarian paprika for an authentic taste. The spice adds depth and a beautiful warm color to the soup.
- Liquid Matters: If the soup becomes too thick during cooking, don't hesitate to add a bit more vegetable broth to maintain your desired consistency.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh parsley isn't just a garnish—it adds a bright, fresh note that cuts through the soup's richness.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make a large batch for meal prep!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 12g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
