Each country has it's own specialty ingredients for soup.
Beans have been a kitchen pantry staple for thousands of years. Every country in the world has its own way of flavoring beans and bean soups. There are dozens varieties of beans which are descendants of the original black, great northern, kidney and pinto bean. Beans are plentiful in fiber, minerals, protein, and vitamins but rather low in calories. Add this to my Recipe Box.
Spices
Black bean soups lend themselves to a variety of spices. Dry mustard, cayenne, cumin and cardamom each add their own special taste. White beans require the unique flavors of bay leaves, parsley and rosemary. Any of the spices used to flavor black beans can also be used for kidney or pinto bean soups. Beans for soups are usually cooked longer so they become softer and may need additional water added during cooking.
Vegetables
Carrots are a colorful addition to Lima or white bean soups. The flavors of onion and garlic can be used in white bean soup. A small whole onion studded with whole cloves adds flavor to pureed bean soups without you having to search for the clove studs before serving. Chopped fresh tomatoes, jalapeno and green or red peppers give black bean soup a unique taste. Finely diced potato adds texture to white bean soups.
Meat Ingredients
Black bean soups are usually flavored with bacon or smoked ham hocks. Beef cubes can be browned in a skillet before adding them or cooked along with the beans. Sliced Polish or Italian sausage is a flavorful and attractive addition to white bean soups. Leftover chicken or turkey cubes can be added to white bean soup also. Economical cuts of beef can be used in bean soups as the prolonged cooking time will tenderize the meat. Sliced or cubed salt pork is an old fashioned favorite for all bean soups.
Miscellaneous Ingredients
About 3 or 4 teaspoons of red wine vinegar can be added to white bean soup. Dry sherry or rum is preferred for black bean soup. Small amounts of lemon juice or olive oil are also good additions. One or 2 tablespoons of butter or flour help create a smooth creaminess for Lima or white bean soups. Serve bean soups with sprinkles of toasted croutons or snips of green onion tops for color. Anything that will add a splash of color to a soup will make it more appetizing.
Tags: bean soups, white bean, white bean soups, bean soup, white bean soup, added white, added white bean