Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)

Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj) is a delightful dish that brings warmth and flavor to any occasion. This quick, spicy recipe is perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or meal prep. Packed with white beans and seasoned with vibrant spices like paprika and marjoram, this soup showcases the essence of Serbian cuisine while being entirely plant-based. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a comforting bowl of goodness, this Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup will surely impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
• Healthy Ingredients: Loaded with vegetables and packed with protein from beans and freekeh, it’s a nutritious choice.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a main course or a side dish, it suits various occasions from casual dinners to festive gatherings.
• Flavorful Experience: The combination of spices creates a rich and aromatic flavor that will satisfy everyone’s palate.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This soup keeps well in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for meal prepping.

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Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather the necessary tools before you start. Having everything ready will streamline the process so you can enjoy your time in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• High-speed blender
• Chopping knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and allowing all ingredients to blend together beautifully.
• High-speed blender: Great for grinding freekeh quickly; it saves time and makes preparation easier.
• Chopping knife: A good-quality knife ensures safety and efficiency when preparing vegetables.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping, ensuring precision in your ingredient preparation.

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 and Broth

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

Base Ingredients

• 200 g freekeh, cracked
• 2 Tbsp tomato paste

Spices

• 2 tsp marjoram
• 2 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp celery salt
• 2 tsp onion powder
• 4 tsp paprika powder, sweet
• 1 tsp smoked salt, optional

Garnish

• 2 bunch parsley, chopped

How to Make Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)

Step 1: Prepare the Freekeh

1. Start by grounding the freekeh using your high-speed blender with the pulse function until it’s cracked.
2. Pour the cracked freekeh into vegetable broth. If using TVP instead of freekeh, submerge it in enough vegetable broth to cover completely.
3. Let both soaked overnight to ensure they’re ready for cooking.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Finely dice the onions and mince the garlic.
2. In a sufficiently large pot, add a splash of water to prevent burning.
3. Sauté the onions and garlic until soft.

Step 3: Add More Vegetables

1. Chop leeks, carrots, and celery root finely.
2. Add these vegetables to the pot with onions and garlic.
3. Sauté briefly until they begin to soften.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Add all remaining ingredients—the soaked freekeh or TVP, white beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable stock, tomato paste, marjoram, oregano, celery salt, onion powder, paprika powder, and smoked salt if desired—to the pot.
2. Stir well to combine all flavors.

Step 5: Simmer

1. Allow the soup to simmer on medium heat for about 20 minutes.
2. Check occasionally; stir gently to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Final Touches

1. Once the freekeh is soft, taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
2. Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy your hearty Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj) as a fulfilling meal or an appetizer at your next gathering!

How to Serve Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)

Serving Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj) is simple and versatile. This hearty soup is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Here are some creative ways to serve it.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette – Serve with slices of warm, crusty baguette for dipping.
• Garlic Bread – Try garlic bread for a flavorful complement to the soup.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to enhance flavor and presentation.
• Chives or Green Onions – Add chopped chives or green onions for an extra kick.

Accompanied by a Side Salad

• Green Salad – A light green salad with a lemon vinaigrette pairs well.
• Potato Salad – A creamy potato salad can balance the spices in the soup.

As a Main Course

• Hearty Meal Option – Serve in larger bowls as a filling main dish, especially for lunch or dinner.
• With Rice or Quinoa – Add a scoop of cooked rice or quinoa for additional texture and nutrition.

How to Perfect Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)

Perfecting your Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj) can elevate this dish. Here are some tips to ensure your soup is delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Opt for fresh vegetables to enhance the flavor profile of your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking to suit your preferences.
• Soak Beans Properly – If using dried beans, soak them overnight for better texture and digestibility.
• Experiment with Spices – Don’t hesitate to add extra spices like cayenne pepper for heat or cumin for depth.
• Let It Simmer Longer – Allow the soup to simmer longer if you have time; it helps flavors meld beautifully.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj) enhances the meal experience. Here are some great options.

1. Crispy Roasted Potatoes – Seasoned and roasted potatoes make a satisfying addition.
2. Grilled Vegetables – Mixed grilled vegetables offer a colorful and nutritious side.
3. Classic Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness to the meal.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers – These can be filled with grains, beans, and spices for a hearty option.
5. Olive Tapenade Crostini – Toasted bread topped with olive tapenade provides a salty contrast.
6. Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad with herbs complements the soup’s richness.
7. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins pair well with the spicy flavor of the soup.
8. Pickled Vegetables – Adding pickles can introduce acidity that balances the soup’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj), it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Soaking – Not soaking freekeh or TVP overnight can lead to a texture that’s too firm. Always soak these ingredients to ensure they cook evenly.

• Overcooking Vegetables – Cooking your vegetables for too long can diminish their flavor and nutrients. Sauté them just until they’re tender for the best results.

• Ignoring Seasoning – Failing to taste and adjust seasonings can result in a bland soup. Don’t be afraid to add more spices or herbs during cooking.

• Using Low-Quality Beans – Not all canned beans are created equal. Choose high-quality, low-sodium options for the best flavor and health benefits.

• Neglecting Garnish – Skipping the fresh parsley garnish can rob your soup of freshness. Always finish with a touch of greenery for added flavor and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The soup will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with the date.

Reheating Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in an oven-safe dish until hot.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in intervals, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop – Heat on low in a pot, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

You can use dried white beans, but they need to be soaked and cooked beforehand. This adds time but enhances flavor.

What can I substitute for freekeh?

Quinoa, brown rice, or lentils work well as substitutes for freekeh in this recipe.

Is Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup gluten-free?

Yes, it is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free freekeh or replace it with another gluten-free grain.

How spicy is this soup?

The spice level depends on the paprika you use. For a milder option, go with sweet paprika; smoked paprika adds depth without extra heat.

Can I customize the vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute any vegetables you prefer, such as bell peppers or zucchini.

How do I serve this soup?

Serve it warm with crusty bread or over rice for a hearty meal that is perfect for gatherings.

Final Thoughts

Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj) is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its rich flavors make it perfect for cozy meals or gatherings. You can easily customize the ingredients based on your preferences, making it a fantastic choice for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its comforting warmth!