When the days get shorter and the crisp air heralds the arrival of autumn, my thoughts always turn to a recipe that warms the heart: Bean and Cabbage Rich Soup.
I still remember when my grandmother used to make this soup; it was our little ritual to welcome the first cold days. With only 450 calories per serving, it combines the intense flavor of beans with the sweetness of cabbage in a perfectly balanced caloric embrace.
Although it requires patience with 120 minutes of cooking time, I assure you that the preparation is surprisingly easy, requiring only 15 minutes of your active time. This is just the recipe for those looking for something healthy, tasty, and capable of evoking the most genuine atmospheres of home cooking.
Recipe Notes
- DIFFICULTY: Easy and quick
- PRO: Rich in fiber and filling
- CONS: Long cooking time
- PREPARATION: Quick, only 15 minutes
- NUTRITIONAL NOTES: 450 calories per serving
- SUITABLE FOR: Cold days and as comfort food
Notes on the Ingredients of the Bean and Cabbage Rich Soup
Discover how to make this classic winter recipe unique:
- Dried Borlotti Beans: Soak them overnight to reduce cooking times.
- Savoy Cabbage: Slice it into thin strips for even cooking.
- Potatoes: Use floury varieties to naturally thicken the soup.
- Pancetta: Add diced pieces for a smoky and flavorful touch.
- Onion and Leek: Sauté them together for an intense aromatic base.
- Celery and Carrot: Finely chop them, they are essential for the soffritto.
- Broth: Prefer vegetable or meat broth for more flavor.
- Vialone Rice: Perfect for soups, it absorbs flavors well without overcooking.
- Salt and Pepper: Adjust the quantities to taste at the end of cooking.
- Parmesan Cheese: Serve it freshly grated to enrich each spoonful.
Nutritional Values and Properties of this Soup
This dish represents an excellent source of nutrients, combining ingredients rich in health benefits. Here are some positive and negative aspects:
- Borlotti Beans: Provide plant-based proteins and fibers, beneficial for digestive health and weight control.
- Savoy Cabbage: Rich in vitamins K, C, and antioxidants, supports the immune system and fights inflammation.
- Pancetta: Although it adds flavor, it increases the calorie and saturated fat content, to be consumed in moderation.
- Assorted Vegetables (Onion, Leek, Celery, Carrot): Provide fibers, vitamins, and essential minerals for a balanced diet.
- Vialone Rice: Offers a good source of complex carbohydrates for lasting energy.
- Calories Per Serving: With 450 calories, this soup can fit well into a controlled dietary regimen.
In conclusion, although the calorie content may be higher than that of other vegetable-based soups, the nutritional benefits it offers make it an excellent option for a hearty and balanced meal.
Hearty Bean and Kale Soup: A Nutritious, Easy Recipe
Instructions
- Soak the beans overnight.
- Cook the beans for 90 minutes.
- Steep chopped vegetables in chopped lard.
- Wet with broth and cook for 1 hour.
- Add the rice and drained beans and cook another 30 minutes.
- Season with pepper and serve with plenty of Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Variations and Ideas to Enhance Your Soup
When preparing a hearty and inviting soup, there are numerous variations that can adapt to personal tastes or dietary needs. One option could be using cannellini beans instead of borlotti beans for a creamier texture. For those looking for a more rustic touch, adding cubes of pumpkin along with potatoes will bring sweetness and color.
For protein lovers watching their waistline, replacing bacon with smoked turkey is an excellent choice that maintains the smoky flavor without weighing it down. Alternatively, for a completely vegetarian version, remove animal products and enrich the dish with different types of legumes such as lentils or chickpeas.
Introducing risoni instead of Vialone rice offers a different texture and makes every spoonful full of surprises. Finally, do not forget the finishing touch: a pinch of chopped red chili pepper or fresh basil leaves can transform this simple soup into an unforgettable culinary adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the answers to the most common questions about this delicious recipe.
How should I prepare the beans for this soup?
Soak the dried borlotti beans in water overnight before using them in the recipe.
How long should I cook the beans for?
The beans should be cooked for 90 minutes after soaking them.
What kind of broth should I use?
You can use vegetable or meat broth, depending on your preferences. Make sure it is well seasoned to enhance the flavor of the soup.
