Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)

Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj) is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. This vegan soup is packed with protein-rich white beans and seasoned with aromatic spices, making it a warm and satisfying meal. Whether you serve it at a dinner party or on a cozy night in, this Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup will impress your guests and keep your family coming back for more. Its unique blend of flavors and textures sets it apart from other soups, making it a delightful choice for any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 45 minutes, you can whip up this delicious soup in no time.
• Flavorful & Spicy: A mix of paprika, marjoram, and oregano infuses each bowl with robust flavors.
• Versatile & Filling: This soup is not only perfect as a main course but also works well as an appetizer at parties.
• Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with fiber and protein, it’s a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.
• Easily Scalable: Make larger quantities to serve family gatherings or meal prep for the week.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen that make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• High-speed blender
• Chopping knife or food chopper
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly while allowing all ingredients to blend together perfectly.
• High-speed blender: Useful for grinding freekeh or blending ingredients to achieve the desired consistency.
• Chopping knife or food chopper: Ensures consistent chopping of vegetables, making the cooking process faster and more efficient.

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Ingredients

For the Base

• 4 onions, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 leeks, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 3 slices celery root/celeriac, about finger thick

For the Soup

• 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cans diced tomatoes
• 8 cups (2 liters) vegetable stock

For Flavoring

• 200 g freekeh, cracked
• 2 Tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tsp marjoram
• 2 tsp oregano
• 2 bunch parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp celery salt
• 2 tsp onion powder
• 4 tsp paprika powder, sweet
• 1 tsp smoked salt (optional)

How to Make Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)

Step 1: Prepare Freekeh

1. Ground the freekeh using a high-speed blender with the pulse function until coarsely ground.
2. Pour the cracked freekeh into a bowl and add enough vegetable broth to cover it. If using TVP, submerge it in vegetable broth as well. Let both soak overnight.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

1. The next day, finely dice the onions and mince the garlic.
2. In a large pot, sauté the onions and garlic with a splash of water to prevent burning until they are translucent.

Step 3: Add Remaining Vegetables

1. Chop leeks, carrots, and celery root finely using your knife or chopper.
2. Add these chopped vegetables to the pot with onions and sauté briefly until they soften.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Add all other ingredients—including soaked freekeh—to the pot.
2. Stir well to combine everything before bringing it to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Step 5: Cook & Season

1. Allow the soup to simmer for about 20 minutes or until freekeh is soft.
2. Taste and season again according to your preference before serving.

Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped parsley before serving hot.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)!

How to Serve Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)

Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj) is a hearty and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Pair the soup with crusty artisan bread for dipping. The bread absorbs the flavors beautifully.
• Serve with garlic bread for an added punch of flavor and aroma.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with chopped parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.
• Drizzle with a bit of olive oil for richness and depth.

As a Main Dish

• Enjoy the soup as a standalone meal, packed with protein and fiber, making it satisfying enough for lunch or dinner.
• Serve alongside a light salad for a balanced meal.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl, creating an edible container that’s perfect for scooping.

How to Perfect Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)

To ensure your Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables elevate the flavor profile significantly. Opt for seasonal produce when possible.
• Adjust spices to taste: Feel free to modify the spices based on your preference. More paprika can add extra warmth!
• Allow time to simmer: Letting the soup simmer longer allows flavors to meld beautifully. Aim for at least 30 minutes.
• Experiment with textures: If you prefer a creamier soup, blend part of it before serving. This adds richness without heavy ingredients.
• Store leftovers properly: Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container. It tastes even better the next day!

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)

Serving side dishes alongside your Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup can create a delightful meal. Here are some great options:

1. Simple Green Salad – A mix of greens dressed lightly with lemon juice offers a refreshing contrast.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until tender complement the heartiness of the soup well.
3. Crispy Potato Wedges – Baked or air-fried potato wedges provide crunch and are perfect for dipping.
4. Grilled Vegetable Skewers – Marinated grilled skewers add smokiness and can be made with your favorite vegetables.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Fill bell peppers with grains and vegetables for another filling option that pairs nicely.
6. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs and lemon adds protein and brightness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup, it’s easy to make a few common missteps. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Soaking Process – Not soaking the freekeh or TVP overnight can lead to a less tender texture. Soaking ensures proper hydration and enhances flavor.

• Overcooking Vegetables – Cooking the onions and garlic too long can cause bitterness. Sauté them just until they are translucent for the best flavor.

• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments – Failing to taste and adjust seasonings at the end can leave your soup bland. Always check and modify according to your personal preference.

• Using Low-Quality Stock – A poor-quality vegetable stock can dull the flavors of your soup. Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought stock for the best results.

• Ignoring Cooking Times – Not adhering to cooking times can affect the overall consistency of your soup. Stick to recommended times, especially when simmering.

• Not Garnishing Properly – Skipping fresh herbs like parsley can make your soup less vibrant. Garnish with chopped parsley right before serving for added freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the fridge.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it in a container.

Freezing Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)

• Freeze in portion-sized containers or freezer bags.
• The soup can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop – Reheat on medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj):

Can I use different beans in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute white beans with other types such as kidney beans or black beans, but keep in mind that it may alter the flavor profile slightly.

How do I make this soup gluten-free?

To ensure your Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup is gluten-free, choose gluten-free freekeh or replace it with quinoa or rice.

What is a good side dish with this soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad to balance its hearty flavors.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better when made ahead of time as flavors meld together.

Is Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! Prepare larger batches and store them in portions for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj) is not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. Whether served at a gathering or as a cozy weeknight meal, this recipe allows customization with different spices or vegetables. Don’t hesitate to try it out and make it your own!