Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)

Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj) is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This soup combines white beans with rich spices and vegetables, creating a delightful meal that can be served as an appetizer or a main course. Its versatility allows it to shine at dinner parties, family gatherings, or simply as a comforting weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 20 minutes of prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy days when you need a nutritious meal fast.
• Flavorful and Spicy: The blend of paprika, marjoram, and oregano gives this soup a deliciously warm flavor that will impress your taste buds.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and plant-based protein from the freekeh or TVP, this soup is both satisfying and good for you.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup is great for serving at parties or gatherings; it’s sure to please guests with diverse dietary preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup requires some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• High-speed blender
• Large pot
• Chopping board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• High-speed blender: Perfect for grinding freekeh quickly and efficiently, ensuring it cooks evenly in the soup.
• Large pot: A must-have for simmering the soup; it allows all ingredients to meld together beautifully without overflowing.
• Chopping board: Essential for safely preparing your vegetables; it provides a stable surface while cutting.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts on vegetables, making prep work faster and safer.

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Ingredients

For the Base

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

For the Soup

• 2 cans white beans
• 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 or TVP

1. Ground the cracked freekeh in a high-speed blender using the pulse function until it’s broken down.
2. Pour the cracked freekeh into vegetable broth. If you’re using TVP, submerge it in enough vegetable broth to cover it completely.
3. Let both soak overnight.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

1. Finely dice the onions and mince the garlic.
2. In a sufficiently large pot, sauté onions and garlic over medium heat. Add a splash of water to prevent burning.
3. Chop leeks, carrots, and celery root finely using your chopper.
4. Add these chopped vegetables to the pot with onions and garlic; sauté briefly until they soften.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Add all remaining ingredients to the pot.
2. Stir well until everything is combined.
3. Allow the soup to simmer for about 20 minutes on medium heat until all flavors meld together and freekeh is tender.

Step 4: Final Touches

1. Once cooked, taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

This Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj) will surely become a favorite in your culinary repertoire! Enjoy its warmth and richness any time of year!

How to Serve Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)

Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair the soup with slices of crusty bread for dipping. This combination makes for a hearty meal, perfect for sopping up every last drop.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish the soup with freshly chopped parsley or dill. This adds a burst of color and freshness, elevating the flavors significantly.

As a Starter

• Serve small portions of the soup as an appetizer before a main course. It’s a great way to warm up your guests and set the tone for a delightful meal.

With a Side Salad

• Complement your soup with a light salad, such as a simple green salad or cucumber-tomato salad. The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the soup.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun presentation, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This not only looks appealing but also provides additional flavor from the bread.

Accompanied by Pickles

• Serve pickled vegetables on the side to add a tangy crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy texture of the soup.

How to Perfect Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)

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

• Use fresh vegetables: Fresh produce enhances the flavor profile and nutritional value of your soup.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your soup while it simmers and adjust seasonings like salt, pepper, or herbs as needed for optimal flavor.
• Soak beans properly: If using dry beans instead of canned, soak them overnight to ensure they cook evenly and have a creamy texture.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add different spices such as cumin or chili powder for added depth and warmth.
• Add more veggies: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and variety.
• Allow flavors to meld: Letting the soup sit for a few hours or even overnight in the fridge allows flavors to develop further.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup can elevate your meal significantly. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment for dipping.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide an earthy contrast that complements the creaminess of the soup.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with fresh herbs adds protein and fiber while keeping things refreshing.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can cut through the richness of the soup, adding crunch and flavor.
5. Stuffed Peppers: These can be filled with rice and spices, providing hearty satisfaction alongside the soup.
6. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs serves as a mild yet satisfying base that pairs well with bean soup.
7. Pita Chips: Crunchy pita chips bring texture to your meal; they are perfect for scooping up the delicious soup.
8. Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad adds freshness and balances out the warmth of the bean soup perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your cooking experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Beans: If you overcook the white beans, they can become mushy and lose their texture. To avoid this, add them later in the cooking process when simmering.

• Ignoring the Seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust your spices during cooking for a rich, flavorful Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup.

• Skipping Broth Soaking: Not soaking freekeh or TVP overnight can result in undesired textures. Ensure you soak these ingredients as instructed for optimal results.

• Chopping Vegetables Unevenly: Inconsistent vegetable sizes can affect cooking times. Aim for similar sizes when chopping to ensure even cooking.

• Not Letting It Simmer Long Enough: A short simmer might not develop full flavors. Allow the soup to simmer adequately to let all the ingredients meld beautifully.

• Forgetting Fresh Garnish: Skipping the parsley garnish can make your soup less visually appealing and flavorful. Always top with fresh herbs for a burst of freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 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 for best quality.

Reheating Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat soup in an oven-safe dish, covered, until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat at medium power in short intervals, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use different beans?

Yes! You can substitute other beans like kidney or black beans if you prefer.

Is it possible to make this soup spicier?

Absolutely! Add some chili flakes or hot sauce while cooking for extra heat.

How do I customize Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach based on what you have on hand.

What should I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

Can I make this soup oil-free?

Yes! You can skip any oil used for sautéing by using broth or water instead.

Final Thoughts

Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj) is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. This hearty soup is perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home—give it a try!