Cream Soups Recipe

Cream soups have been enjoyed by people for centuries, with roots dating back to ancient civilizations. The concept of cream soups evolved over time as different regions and cultures added their own unique ingredients and flavors. Today, cream soups are a popular choice for comforting and hearty meals. One such delicious cream soup recipe is the Creamy Bean Soup.

This recipe combines the wholesome goodness of beans with the rich creaminess of a soup. It utilizes the following ingredients:

- 2 cups beans
- 2 tablespoons finely cut onion
- 2 tablespoons finely cut bacon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 3 tablespoons flour

To begin, soak the beans in water overnight. This process helps to soften the beans and reduce the cooking time. After soaking, drain the beans and transfer them to a saucepan. Add six cups of boiling water and simmer the beans slowly for two hours, or until they are soft and tender.

While the beans are cooking, prepare the flavor base for the soup. In a separate pan, fry the finely cut onion and bacon until they are light brown and fragrant. This step adds a savory and smoky flavor to the soup. Once the onion and bacon are cooked, add them to the simmering beans and boil for an additional five minutes.

Now it's time to season the soup. Add salt, pepper, chopped parsley, and thyme to the pot. These herbs and spices enhance the flavors of the beans and give a delightful aroma to the soup. Use the back of a spoon to mash some of the beans, creating a thicker and creamier texture.

Next, take the flour and mix it with a little cold water to create a smooth paste. This paste will act as a thickening agent for the soup. Slowly add the flour mixture to the pot while stirring continuously. Allow the soup to boil for an additional five minutes to ensure the flour is fully incorporated and the soup has reached the desired consistency.

Once the Creamy Bean Soup is prepared, it can be served hot and enjoyed as a satisfying meal on its own, or paired with crusty bread or a side salad for a more complete dining experience. The flavorful combination of beans, bacon, and herbs, along with the creamy texture, makes this soup a delectable choice for any occasion.

Fun Fact: Cream soups gained popularity in the United States during the late 1800s and early 1900s. They were often served in tea rooms and luncheonettes, catering to the growing trend of ladies' social gatherings. These establishments would offer a variety of cream soups, including Cream of Tomato, Cream of Mushroom, and Cream of Corn.

Similar recipes to Creamy Bean Soup include Cream of Potato Soup, Cream of Mushroom Soup, and Creamy Tomato Soup. Cream of Potato Soup is made by simmering potatoes, onions, and garlic in a creamy broth until the potatoes are tender. Cream of Mushroom Soup combines sautéed mushrooms with onions, garlic, and herbs, and is finished with a velvety cream sauce. Creamy Tomato Soup is made by pureeing roasted tomatoes with onions, garlic, and basil, and then adding cream for a lusciously smooth texture. These recipes, like Creamy Bean Soup, offer a comforting and flavorsome dining experience.