Cranberry bean soup is a warm hug in a bowl, bursting with flavors that dance on your taste buds while filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Imagine cozy evenings wrapped in blankets, savoring each spoonful of creamy goodness, as the rich colors of the beans swirl together like a vibrant sunset. creamy butternut squash soup.

Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What are cranberry beans?
- Can I freeze cranberry bean soup?
- What can I serve with cranberry bean soup?
- 📖 Recipe Card
And let me tell you, every time I whip up this cranberry bean soup recipe, I’m transported back to my grandma’s kitchen, where laughter and love mingled with the scent of simmering beans. pumpkin stir fry recipe This dish is perfect for chilly nights, heartfelt gatherings, or just when you need a little comfort food magic. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delicious cranberry bean soup recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for beginners
- Its unique flavor profile makes it a standout dish for any meal
- The vibrant colors and aromas will brighten up any dinner table
- It’s versatile enough to enjoy as a hearty main course or a delightful appetizer
One memorable evening, my friends gathered for a cozy dinner party where this soup stole the show, leaving everyone asking for seconds and thirds.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cranberry Beans: These beautiful beans are rich in flavor and creamy texture; look for dried beans for the best results.
- Onion: Use a large onion to build a savory base; it adds sweetness as it caramelizes beautifully.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide an aromatic punch that elevates the entire soup experience.
- Carrots: Sweet and crunchy carrots add color and natural sweetness; diced finely ensures they cook evenly.
- Celery: Celery contributes a fresh crunch and depth of flavor; choose firm stalks for the best taste.
- Vegetable Broth: A flavorful broth is essential; low-sodium options allow you to control salt levels better.
- Bay Leaves: These leaves infuse the soup with herbal notes; remember to remove them before serving! For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Sausages with Zucchini recipe.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning enhances flavors; adjust according to your taste preferences.
- Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil adds richness and helps sauté veggies until they’re tender and fragrant.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by rinsing about two cups of cranberry beans under cold water. Soak them overnight if you want them extra tender and creamy.
Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle olive oil. Add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until onions become translucent—about five minutes—releasing their sweet aroma.
Add Beans and Broth: Stir in your soaked cranberry beans along with six cups of vegetable broth. Toss in bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle boil before lowering heat.
Simmer Away!: Allow the soup to simmer uncovered for about one hour or until beans are tender. Stir occasionally—you’ll want to enjoy those delicious smells wafting through your kitchen.
Blend It Up (Optional): If you prefer a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to purée part of the soup while keeping some whole beans intact for that rustic feel.
Serve It Warm!: After blending (if desired), taste and adjust seasoning before ladling into bowls. Garnish with fresh herbs or crusty bread on the side for added enjoyment.
Now that you’ve mastered this delightful cranberry bean soup recipe, you’re ready to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy each comforting spoonful while basking in the warmth of good company or simply relishing some well-deserved alone time with your favorite book. fall harvest cheese board cranberry orange cheese ball.
You Must Know
- This delightful cranberry bean soup recipe is not only hearty but also packed with flavor
- The contrasting textures of creamy beans and crunchy vegetables create a delightful experience
- Plus, the aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking for seconds
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic to release their flavors, then add beans and broth. Simmer until everything melds together beautifully, ensuring each ingredient shines in this cozy bowl of goodness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cranberry beans for pinto or black beans based on preference. You can also toss in fresh herbs or spices to elevate the flavor profile even more.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to revive its creamy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor infusion, let your soup simmer longer; it allows all ingredients to meld perfectly
- Use freshly picked herbs for that vibrant taste that dried ones just can’t match
- Adjust seasonings at the end to find your perfect balance
Sharing this recipe takes me back to a chilly winter evening when my friends gathered around bowls of soup, laughing as they fought over the last spoonful.
FAQ
What are cranberry beans?
Cranberry beans are creamy, flavorful legumes known for their beautiful maroon speckles.
Can I freeze cranberry bean soup?
Yes, you can freeze it! Store in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.
What can I serve with cranberry bean soup?
Serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal experience. For more inspiration, check out this Fresh Herbed Tuna Salad recipe.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Cranberry Bean Soup
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Cranberry bean soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings. This hearty dish combines creamy cranberry beans with sautéed vegetables, creating a rich and aromatic experience that warms both the body and soul. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s ideal for cozy gatherings or a quiet night in. Enjoy every spoonful of this nutritious soup, which is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried cranberry beans
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Rinse the cranberry beans under cold water and soak them overnight for extra tenderness.
- In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle olive oil. Sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until onions are translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add soaked cranberry beans and vegetable broth. Stir in bay leaves, salt, and pepper; bring to a gentle boil.
- Lower heat and simmer uncovered for about 1 hour or until beans are tender. Stir occasionally.
- For a creamier texture, purée part of the soup with an immersion blender.
- Adjust seasoning if desired and serve warm with fresh herbs or crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 0mg