Hurst 15 Bean Soup Recipe

If you’re a fan of hearty, flavorful soups that can warm you from the inside out, there’s something uniquely satisfying about a classic bean soup. And when it comes to rich, wholesome soups, Hurst’s 15 Bean Soup stands out as an absolute favorite. This soup is not just any bean soup; it’s a delicious combination of various beans, aromatic seasonings, and sometimes ham or sausage that makes it incredibly comforting and filling. Whether you’re looking for a dish to nourish you on a cold winter’s day or just want a simple, nutrient-packed meal, Hurst’s 15 Bean Soup is the answer.

The best part about this soup? It’s easy to make, packed with protein, fiber, and a whole host of vitamins and minerals. Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable, meaning you can make it your own by adding whatever ingredients suit your taste or dietary needs. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe has got you covered. Let’s dive into how to make it, why it’s so great, and some tips to elevate it even further.

Hurst 15 Bean Soup Recipe

Now, let’s get into the recipe. This is a simple, hearty, and nourishing dish that’s easy to prepare and delivers fantastic flavor with minimal effort. If you’re using the Hurst 15 Bean Soup Mix, you get a pre-packed blend of 15 different beans, which makes the process much simpler. You’ll be able to enjoy a complex, delicious soup without needing to source a dozen different beans.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make this recipe come to life:

• 1 bag of Hurst’s 15 Bean Soup Mix (approximately 20 oz)
• 1 lb ham hock (or smoked ham, sausage, or bacon for variations)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth (you can also use water, but broth gives better flavor)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh, if you have it)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky depth)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing the veggies)

Optional: You can add some extra ingredients to personalize it further, such as chopped tomatoes, kale, or spinach, or even some chili flakes if you want a little heat!

Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect Hurst 15 Bean Soup:

1. Prepare The Beans

   • Rinse the bag of beans thoroughly under cold water, removing any debris or damaged beans. This step is important to avoid any gritty texture in your soup.
   • Optional: Soak the beans overnight in water to reduce the cooking time and make them more digestible. If you skip this step, just note that the cooking time will be a bit longer.

2. Sauté Vegetables

   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery.
   • Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften and the onion turns translucent.
   • Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute or so, until fragrant.

3. Cook The Ham

   • If you’re using a ham hock, add it to the pot now. You can also add smoked sausage or bacon for more flavor. Sear the meat for a few minutes to bring out its savory richness.

4. Simmer The Soup

   • Add the rinsed beans to the pot, followed by the chicken or vegetable broth, bay leaf, thyme, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine.
   • Bring the soup to a gentle boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally, and check for seasoning along the way. If you soaked your beans beforehand, it will take closer to 1 hour.

5. Final Touches

   • Once the beans are tender, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove the ham hock or meat, shred it, and return the meat to the pot (if using).
   • Remove the bay leaf and discard it.

6. Serve & Enjoy

   • Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. This soup is great on its own or with a side of crusty bread or cornbread.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in Hurst’s 15 Bean Soup contributes to both the flavor and nutritional value of the dish. Here’s a breakdown of why these ingredients are key:

• Hurst’s 15 Bean Soup Mix: A blend of 15 different beans, each adding a unique texture and flavor profile. The mix typically includes beans like kidney beans, navy beans, pinto beans, and black beans. The variety ensures that the soup has a robust texture and an array of nutrients such as protein, fiber, and essential vitamins like folate and iron.
• Ham or Smoked Meat: These ingredients are the flavor backbone of the soup. The smoky, savory taste of ham or sausage infuses the beans and broth, giving it depth. The fat in the meat also adds richness to the overall texture.
• Onion, Garlic, Carrots, and Celery: These vegetables form the classic ’mirepoix’ base of many soups and stews. They provide a sweet, savory, and aromatic foundation that enhances the soup’s flavor.
• Spices and Herbs: Ingredients like thyme, bay leaves, and smoked paprika bring an aromatic complexity to the soup. They balance the earthiness of the beans and the saltiness of the ham, while also lifting the soup with fragrant notes.

Expert Tips

• Use a Ham Bone for Extra Flavor: If you have a leftover ham bone from a holiday or another meal, this can be an excellent substitute for the ham hock. It will impart even more flavor and richness to the soup as it simmers.
• Don’t Skip the Soaking Step: Although optional, soaking the beans can reduce cooking time and improve digestibility. It’s especially helpful if you’re in a rush!
• Season as You Go: Beans have a tendency to soak up salt, so be sure to taste and adjust seasoning at various stages of cooking. This ensures that your soup is perfectly seasoned all the way through.
• Make It a Meal: If you’re serving this as a main course, consider adding some greens like spinach, kale, or Swiss chard toward the end of cooking. These will not only add more nutrients but also create a more filling dish.

Recipe Variations

While this recipe is already fantastic on its own, here are a few variations to make it your own:

• Vegetarian/Vegan Version: Skip the ham or sausage, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add smoked tofu or tempeh for a smoky, protein-rich alternative.
• Spicy Hurst 15 Bean Soup: If you love a bit of heat, add some jalapeños, chili flakes, or even hot sauce to your soup as it cooks.
• Tomato-Based Version: Add a can of diced tomatoes or tomato paste for a more tangy, tomato-infused broth.
• Bacon-Lovers’ Version: For extra smokiness and crunch, crispy bacon can be sprinkled on top of the soup just before serving.

Final Words

Hurst’s 15 Bean Soup is a go-to recipe for anyone who wants a nutritious, satisfying meal without a lot of fuss. It’s a meal that can easily stretch to feed a crowd, and the leftovers are just as good (if not better) the next day. The versatility of this soup is what makes it so great; you can tailor it to your preferences and dietary needs while still enjoying the core flavors that make it such a classic.