Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)

Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj) is a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This comforting soup is rich in flavor and nutrition, making it an excellent choice for cozy dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. With its combination of white beans, savory vegetables, and aromatic spices, this vegan soup stands out as a hearty alternative to traditional chili. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or just enjoying a bowl at home, this recipe will surely impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This soup can be made in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The blend of spices like paprika and oregano brings depth to the dish that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Versatile for Occasions: Perfect as a main dish or appetizer, it’s great for parties or family meals.
• Healthy and Filling: Rich in protein and fiber, this soup keeps you full without weighing you down.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to adjust the spices or add in your favorite vegetables to make it your own.

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Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• High-speed blender
• Chopping board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A spacious pot allows all ingredients to cook evenly without overcrowding.
• High-speed blender: Essential for grinding freekeh smoothly and helps achieve the desired texture for the soup.
• Chopping board & Knife: These are crucial for efficiently preparing fresh vegetables, ensuring uniform sizes.

Ingredients

Vegetables

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

Beans & Base

• 2 cans white beans, drained
• 2 cans diced tomatoes, undrained
• 8 cups (2 liters) vegetable stock, low-sodium preferred

Flavor Enhancers

• 200 g freekeh, cracked or substitute with TVP
• 2 Tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tsp marjoram
• 2 tsp oregano
• 2 bunch parsley, chopped

Seasonings

• 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 the Freekeh

Start by grounding the freekeh using a high-speed blender with the pulse function. Pour the cracked freekeh into vegetable broth. If you’re using TVP, submerge it in enough vegetable broth to cover it. Let both soak overnight.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

The next day, finely dice the onions and mince the garlic. Sauté them in a large pot with a splash of water to prevent burning.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Chop leeks, carrots, and celery root finely. Add these vegetables to the sautéed onions and let them cook briefly until they soften.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Incorporate all remaining ingredients into the pot. Stir well to mix everything together.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

Allow the soup to simmer on medium heat for about 20 minutes until the freekeh is soft. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Serve

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

How to Serve Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)

Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup, or Pasulj, is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. This soup is perfect for any occasion and can be served with a range of accompaniments to enhance its flavors.

With Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked crusty bread pairs beautifully with the soup, allowing you to soak up every delicious drop.

Over Rice

• Serving the soup over a bed of fluffy rice adds texture and makes for a more filling meal.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your bowl with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for an added burst of freshness and color.

With a Side Salad

• A light, refreshing salad complements the rich flavors of the soup, balancing the meal perfectly.

As a Starter

• Serve smaller portions as an appetizer at gatherings to introduce guests to this delightful dish.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for an edible serving dish that will impress your guests.

How to Perfect Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)

To create the best Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup, consider these essential tips. Each step will help elevate your soup’s flavor and consistency.

• Use quality ingredients – Fresh vegetables and high-quality vegetable stock make a significant difference in taste.
• Soak beans overnight – If using dried beans instead of canned, soaking them overnight ensures they cook evenly and become tender.
• Adjust seasoning – Taste your soup before serving; adding extra herbs or spices can enhance its flavor profile.
• Simmer longer – Allowing the soup to simmer longer helps meld the flavors together and provides a richer taste.
• Add acidity – A splash of lemon juice or vinegar just before serving brightens up the flavors beautifully.
• Experiment with spices – Feel free to add other spices like cumin or chili powder for a unique twist on traditional Pasulj.

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

Pairing side dishes with Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the soup and adds flavor.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables provide color and nutrition while complementing the soup’s heartiness.
3. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the richness of the bean soup.
4. Stuffed Peppers – Served alongside, stuffed peppers filled with grains or lentils make for a satisfying pairing.
5. Potato Salad – A creamy potato salad offers comfort and contrasts well with the spicy flavors of Pasulj.
6. Pickled Vegetables – Tangy pickled veggies provide a sharp contrast that cuts through the richness of the soup.
7. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad adds protein and fiber while keeping the meal wholesome.
8. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread brings warmth and sweetness, making it an ideal companion for this savory dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj), it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the Soaking: Not soaking freekeh or TVP overnight can lead to a gritty texture. Always soak them in vegetable broth for the best results.
• Overcooking Vegetables: Cooking the vegetables too long can make them mushy. Sauté just until they’re tender to maintain their crunch and flavor.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Neglecting to taste and adjust seasoning can result in bland soup. Always season according to your preference as it simmers.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap ingredients can compromise the soup’s taste. Invest in fresh produce and high-quality vegetable stock for an outstanding flavor.
• Not Garnishing: Forgetting to garnish your soup may lead to a less appealing presentation. Fresh parsley not only adds color but enhances freshness and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)

• Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as soup expands when frozen.

Reheating Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, and heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj) that can help you get the most out of your cooking experience.

What is Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)?

Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj) is a hearty dish made with white beans, freekeh or TVP, various vegetables, and flavorful spices.

Can I substitute freekeh with other ingredients?

Yes, you can use quinoa or barley as alternatives if you prefer different grains or cannot find freekeh.

How do I make this soup spicier?

To add more heat, consider including red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during cooking. Adjust according to your spice tolerance.

Is Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj) gluten-free?

If using gluten-free grains like quinoa instead of freekeh, this soup can easily become gluten-free. Always check labels on store-bought ingredients.

Final Thoughts

Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj) is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or spices according to your taste preferences. Give this comforting recipe a try, and enjoy its heartwarming flavors!