Teresa's Recipes
Hearty Pinto Bean and Sausage Soup
Warm up with this hearty Pinto Bean and Sausage Soup—an aromatic blend of savory sausage, tender pinto beans, and vibrant vegetables simmered to perfection. This comforting dish is not just a meal; it's a taste of tradition. Originating from the heart of Southern cuisine, this soup is a favorite for family gatherings and chilly evenings, bringing warmth and flavor in every bowl. It's a dish that tells a story of togetherness, often served at community gatherings and potlucks. You won’t just eat this soup; you’ll feel it nourishing your soul.
Ingredients
- 1 cup, dried Pinto beans
- 1 pound, sliced (preferably smoked sausage or kielbasa) Sausage
- 1, chopped Onion
- 2, diced Carrots
- 2 stalks, chopped Celery
- 3 cloves, minced Garlic
- 4 cups Chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons Tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
- for garnish Fresh cilantro
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 6
- Dish Type: Soup
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Carbs: 30g
- Protein: 20g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Sugar: 2g
Instructions
- Rinse the pinto beans thoroughly and soak them in water overnight. Drain and rinse again before using.
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook the sliced sausage until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside, leaving the drippings.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion, diced carrots, chopped celery, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender, approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the soaked pinto beans, browned sausage, chicken broth, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are combined.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beans are tender and the flavors meld together.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor and color.
Tips
- For a spicier version, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Feel free to substitute the sausage with turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option.
- This soup can be made in a slow cooker; just brown the sausage and sauté the vegetables first, then combine everything in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.