Bean Soup Recipe

Bean soup is a hearty and nourishing dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is a versatile dish that can be made with a variety of ingredients, but one of the most classic recipes involves using beef and a medley of vegetables. In this recipe, we will be using 6 lbs. of shin of beef along with a few other ingredients to create a delicious and comforting bean soup.

To start, gather the following ingredients:

- 6 lbs. shin of beef
- 3 to 6 quarts cold water
- 1 bay leaf
- 6 cloves
- 1 tablespoon mixed herbs
- 2 sprigs parsley
- 1/2 cup carrot
- 1/2 cup turnip
- 1/2 cup celery
- 1/2 cup onion

Before we dive into the recipe, let's take a moment to explore the history of bean soup. Bean soups have been consumed for centuries, dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and Romans. The availability and affordability of beans made them a staple food in many cultures around the world. In fact, bean soup was often considered a peasant dish due to its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. Over time, variations of the recipe have emerged, incorporating different meats, vegetables, and seasonings to suit regional preferences and tastes.

Now, let's get started with the recipe:

1. Begin by wiping the shin of beef and cutting the lean meat into cubes. Set aside.

2. Take one-third of the cubed meat and brown it in a hot frying pan. This step will add depth of flavor to the soup.

3. In a large soup kettle, place the remaining two-thirds of the beef, along with the bone and fat. Add in the cold water and let it stand for about 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to infuse into the water.

4. Move the soup kettle to the back of the range and heat it gradually until it reaches the boiling point. Once it starts boiling, cover it and let it cook slowly for about six hours. The long cooking time will help the beef become tender and develop a rich flavor.

5. One hour before the soup is finished, add the chopped carrot, turnip, celery, and onion to the kettle. Also, add the bay leaf, cloves, mixed herbs, and sprigs of parsley. These ingredients will enhance the soup's flavor and add a delightful aroma.

6. After the soup has cooked for the recommended six hours, strain it and put it away to cool. This step will remove any solids and create a smoother texture.

7. Once the soup has cooled, skim off any excess fat that has risen to the surface. This will make the soup healthier and more appetizing.

8. When you're ready to serve the soup, reheat it on the stovetop until it reaches your desired temperature. You can adjust the seasoning if needed and serve it piping hot.

Bean soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with crusty bread or a fresh salad. It is a complete meal in itself, offering a good source of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.

Now that you have learned how to make a delicious bean soup using beef, you can explore variations of this recipe. For a vegetarian option, you can replace the beef with a variety of beans such as kidney beans, white beans, or black beans. You can also experiment with different vegetables and seasonings to create your own unique twist on this classic dish.

Other similar dishes that you might enjoy include lentil soup, split pea soup, and minestrone soup. These soups share the same comforting and nutritious qualities as bean soup and can be easily adapted to suit individual preferences.

So next time you're in the mood for a hearty and satisfying meal, give this bean soup recipe a try. You'll be amazed at how simple ingredients can come together to create a delicious and nourishing dish. Enjoy!