If you’re using leftover ham or smoked sausage, these can be added later in the process along with the beans, so no pre-cooking is necessary. If you prefer, ground beef can also be browned and added for a heartier version of the soup.
3. Add Beans and Vegetables
Once the ham hock has simmered, add the rinsed and drained 15 Bean Soup mix. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Simmer the soup on low heat, covered, for about 1½ to 2 hours, or until the beans become tender.
4. Incorporate Tomatoes and Spices
After the beans have softened, stir in canned diced tomatoes (with juice), chili powder, and fresh lemon juice. If you’d like to add optional vegetables like carrots or celery, now is the time. Simmer the soup for an additional 30 minutes to allow the flavors to deepen and the broth to thicken slightly.
5. Add the Seasoning Packet
Just before serving, stir in the seasoning packet that came with the 15 Bean Soup mix. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a spicier soup, feel free to add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
Tips for Perfect 15 Bean Soup
- Soaking Beans: Soaking beans overnight can reduce cooking time and remove some of the complex sugars that cause digestive discomfort. However, if you’re short on time, soaking is optional. Just add an extra cup of liquid and extend the cooking time by about 45-60 minutes.
- Acidic Ingredients: Always add acidic ingredients like tomatoes and lemon juice after the beans have softened. Adding them too early can prevent the beans from cooking properly.
- Thickening the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, remove about 1 cup of cooked beans and broth, puree them in a blender, and return the mixture to the pot. Alternatively, you can mash some beans with a potato masher directly in the pot.
- Serving Suggestions: This hearty soup pairs perfectly with a slice of warm, buttery cornbread for a complete and comforting meal.
Storing and Reheating 15 Bean Soup
This 15 Bean Soup is excellent for meal prep because it stores well in both the refrigerator and freezer. Here’s how to store and reheat it:
- In the Fridge: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- In the Freezer: To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then ladle it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Lay the bags flat in the freezer to save space. When ready to eat, thaw the soup in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
Nutritional Information
This 15 Bean Soup recipe is not only filling but also nutritious. Here’s a general breakdown of the nutrition per serving:
- Calories: 268
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sodium: 137mg
- Potassium: 1019mg
Enjoy Your Homemade 15 Bean Soup
There’s nothing quite like a bowl of homemade 15 Bean Soup to keep you warm and satisfied. Whether you make it for a weeknight dinner or freeze it for later, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. With its combination of hearty beans, tender ham, and vibrant veggies, it’s both nutritious and delicious—a true comfort food classic.
