Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)

Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj) is a delightful dish that warms the soul and tantalizes the taste buds. This hearty soup, rich in flavor and nutrients, is perfect for various occasions, from family dinners to gatherings with friends. Its unique blend of spices and wholesome ingredients makes it a standout choice for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting vegan meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of paprika, marjoram, and oregano creates a deliciously spicy flavor profile that will satisfy your cravings.
• Nutrient-Dense: Packed with white beans and vegetables, this soup is rich in protein and fiber, promoting overall health.
• Versatile: Serve it as a main dish or alongside bread for dipping. It’s great for any occasion!
• Party Ready: This vegan bean soup is often enjoyed at gatherings, making it an excellent party food option.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to make preparation smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Pot
• High-Speed Blender
• Chopper or Knife
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Pot: Essential for sautéing vegetables and simmering the soup evenly.
• High-Speed Blender: Perfect for grinding freekeh or blending ingredients if desired.
• Chopper or Knife: Speeds up the chopping of vegetables, ensuring uniform pieces.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Helps maintain accuracy in ingredient quantities for balanced flavors.

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Ingredients

For the Soup 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 Beans and Seasoning

• 2 cans white beans, drained
• 2 cans diced tomatoes, undrained
• 8 cups (2 liters) vegetable stock
• 200 g freekeh, cracked (or TVP as an alternative)
• 2 Tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tsp marjoram
• 2 tsp oregano
• 2 bunch parsley, chopped

For Additional Flavor

• 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

Start by grounding the freekeh. Use your high-speed blender with the pulse function to achieve a cracked consistency. Pour the cracked freekeh into vegetable broth. If using TVP instead, submerge it in enough vegetable broth to cover. Allow both to soak overnight for optimal texture.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

The next day, finely dice the onions and mince the garlic. Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and garlic to the pot along with a splash of water to prevent burning. Sauté until softened.

Step 3: Add Remaining Vegetables

Chop leeks, carrots, and celery root finely—using a chopper can save time here. Add these vegetables to the pot with onions and garlic. Sauté briefly until they begin to soften.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add all remaining ingredients including soaked freekeh (or TVP), vegetable stock, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, herbs, celery salt, onion powder, paprika powder, and smoked salt if using. Stir well to combine.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for about 20 minutes or until the freekeh is soft. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, garnish your Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy this delicious Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj) hot!

How to Serve Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)

Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj) is a hearty dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and appeal. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Pair the soup with crusty bread, like sourdough or whole grain, for dipping. The bread soaks up the delicious broth and adds a satisfying texture.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the soup’s freshness.

Served with a Side Salad

• A crisp green salad complements the warmth of the soup. Consider using mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing balance.

Accompanied by Pickled Vegetables

• Serving pickled vegetables on the side provides a tangy contrast to the rich flavors of the soup. Try pickled cucumbers or beets for variety.

Alongside Vegan Cheese

• Include some vegan cheese slices or spreads as a delightful addition. Creamy textures work well with the hearty soup.

In a Bread Bowl

• For an impressive presentation, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This makes for an interactive and fun dining experience.

How to Perfect Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)

Perfecting your Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj) can take your dish from good to great. Here are some tips to help you achieve that perfect bowl of soup.

• Sauté until fragrant – Make sure to sauté onions and garlic until they become translucent and fragrant. This builds a flavorful base for your soup.

• Use quality vegetable stock – A rich vegetable stock enhances the overall taste significantly. Opt for homemade or low-sodium store-bought varieties.

• Adjust seasoning – Taste your soup as it simmers, adjusting spices like paprika and marjoram according to your preference. A little extra seasoning can make a big difference.

• Let it simmer longer – If time allows, let your soup simmer longer than 20 minutes. This helps deepen the flavors and makes every spoonful more delicious.

• Blend for creaminess – For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup before serving. This gives it a smooth consistency while keeping some beans intact for texture.

• Cool before freezing – If you’re planning to freeze leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. It will freeze better this way.

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

To complement your Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj), consider these delightful side dishes that add variety and enhance your meal.

1. Garlic Bread – Crispy on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread pairs perfectly with the warmth of the soup.

2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies bring out natural sweetness and add color to your meal.

3. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing offers protein and freshness alongside the hearty soup.

4. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice or lentils make an appealing side that’s full of flavor.

5. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity that balances out the creamy texture of the soup.

6. Cucumber Salad – Cool cucumber salad dressed in vinegar is refreshing and enhances flavors without overpowering them.

7. Baked Sweet Potatoes – Naturally sweet baked sweet potatoes offer a nutritious contrast to the savory bean soup.

8. Pita Chips – Crunchy pita chips add texture, making them perfect for dipping into your delicious bean soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls you should avoid for the best results.

• Bold Preparation: Not preparing your ingredients in advance can lead to chaos. Chop your vegetables and measure out spices beforehand to streamline the cooking process.
• Bold Overcooking Beans: Using dried beans without proper soaking can result in tough beans. Always soak your beans overnight or use canned beans for a quick solution.
• Bold Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning is a frequent mistake. Taste your soup as it cooks and adjust salt and spices to enhance flavors.
• Bold Skipping Garnish: Neglecting to garnish your soup can make it less appealing. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness to your dish.
• Bold Not Simmering Enough: Rushing through the cooking time can lead to bland flavors. Allow the soup to simmer adequately for a richer taste profile.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj), we’ve got answers!

How can I make my Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup spicier?

Add more paprika or include a pinch of cayenne pepper during cooking for an extra kick.

Can I substitute freekeh in this recipe?

Yes! You can use cooked quinoa or brown rice as alternatives if you prefer.

Is Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This soup stores well and tastes even better after flavors meld over time.

How do I thicken my Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup?

For a thicker consistency, blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in or add mashed beans.

Final Thoughts

Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj) is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various vegetables or spices based on what you have at home. It’s perfect for serving at gatherings or enjoying as a cozy meal during colder months. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its rich flavors!