Soup-er fast: how to cook bean soup in a flash

Bean soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. But how long does it take to cook? The answer depends on the type of beans you’re using and whether they’re dry or canned.

Dry Beans

Dry beans take longer to cook than canned beans, but they’re also more flavorful. To cook dry beans, you’ll need to soak them overnight in water. This will help them to rehydrate and cook more evenly.

Once the beans have been soaked, drain them and rinse them. Then, add them to a large pot with fresh water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the beans are tender.

Canned Beans

Canned beans are a convenient option for those who don’t have time to soak and cook dry beans. They’re also a good choice for those who want a less flavorful soup.

To cook canned beans, simply drain and rinse them. Then, add them to a large pot with water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-45 minutes, or until the soup has reached your desired consistency.

Cooking Times for Different Types of Beans

The following are approximate cooking times for different types of beans:

• Black beans: 1-2 hours
• Cannellini beans: 1-2 hours
• Chickpeas: 1-2 hours
• Kidney beans: 1-2 hours
• Navy beans: 1-2 hours
• Pinto beans: 1-2 hours

Tips for Cooking Bean Soup

Here are a few tips for cooking bean soup:

• Use a large pot so that the beans have plenty of room to cook.
• Add salt to the water after the beans have been cooking for about 30 minutes. This will help them to retain their shape.
• Don’t overcook the beans. They should be tender but not mushy.
• Add your favorite vegetables and spices to the soup for extra flavor.

Variations on Bean Soup

There are many different variations on bean soup. Some popular variations include:

• Ham and bean soup: This soup is made with ham, beans, and vegetables.
• Sausage and bean soup: This soup is made with sausage, beans, and vegetables.
• Vegetarian bean soup: This soup is made with beans, vegetables, and broth.
• Tortellini bean soup: This soup is made with tortellini, beans, and vegetables.

How to Store Bean Soup

Bean soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat the soup, simply heat it over medium heat until it is warmed through.

Wrapping Up

Now that you know how long it takes to cook bean soup, you can enjoy this delicious and nutritious dish anytime you want. Experiment with different types of beans and vegetables to create your own unique variations on this classic recipe.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: How can I make bean soup faster?

A: You can make bean soup faster by using canned beans. Canned beans are already cooked, so they only need to be heated through.

Q: Can I cook bean soup in a slow cooker?

A: Yes, you can cook bean soup in a slow cooker. Add all of the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Q: What are some good vegetables to add to bean soup?

A: Some good vegetables to add to bean soup include carrots, celery, onions, potatoes, and tomatoes.