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 not only simple to prepare, but it also shines in larger quantities, making it perfect for gatherings or meal prep. Packed with hearty white beans and seasoned with fragrant herbs, this soup offers a satisfying alternative to traditional chili while being entirely plant-based. Enjoy it as a comforting main course or serve it at your next party to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This soup can be ready in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of paprika, marjoram, and oregano delivers a savory depth that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it alone or pair it with crusty bread for a heartier meal.
• Healthy and Nourishing: With plenty of fiber and protein from the beans, this soup supports a healthy lifestyle.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the preparation smoother and ensures the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• High-speed blender
• Chopper or knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A spacious pot allows you to sauté vegetables evenly and simmer the soup without overflowing.
• High-speed blender: Perfect for grinding freekeh or blending smooth soups if desired.
• Chopper or knife: Essential for efficiently dicing vegetables, saving time during prep.

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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)
• 2 Tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tsp marjoram
• 2 tsp oregano
• 2 bunch parsley, chopped

Additional Seasoning

• 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. Start by grounding the freekeh using a high-speed blender on pulse mode.
2. Pour the cracked freekeh into vegetable broth. If using TVP, submerge it in enough vegetable broth to cover.
3. Let both soak overnight for optimal texture.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

1. Finely dice the onions and mince the garlic.
2. In a large pot, sauté them over medium heat with a splash of water to prevent burning until softened.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

1. Chop leeks, carrots, and celery root finely using your chopper or knife.
2. Add these vegetables to the pot with onions and garlic, letting them sauté briefly until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

1. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer on medium heat for about 20 minutes until everything is heated through and flavors meld together.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Once cooked, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
2. Enjoy this hearty Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup hot!

This Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj) is sure to become a favorite in your household—simple yet full of flavor!

How to Serve Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)

Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj) is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Its rich flavors and textures make it a versatile soup suitable for different occasions.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette – Serve slices of warm, crusty baguette for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth.
• Homemade Bread Rolls – Soft, fluffy rolls are perfect for sopping up the soup and adding a comforting touch.

As a Main Course

• Over Rice or Quinoa – Pour the soup over a bed of rice or quinoa for a filling meal that adds extra nutrients.
• With a Side Salad – A light, refreshing salad complements the richness of the soup and adds freshness to your plate.

Garnished with Herbs

• Chopped Parsley or Cilantro – Sprinkle fresh herbs on top before serving to enhance flavor and add a pop of color.
• Drizzle of Olive Oil – A light drizzle of olive oil can add richness and depth to the overall taste.

How to Perfect Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)

Achieving the best flavor and texture in your Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup requires some simple tips. Follow these guidelines for an even more delicious outcome.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables will provide better flavor than frozen or canned options. Try to use seasonal produce when possible.
• Adjust Seasonings – Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust spices like paprika or salt according to your preference for a personalized touch.
• Cook Freekeh Properly – Ensure freekeh is soaked long enough to soften. This creates a pleasant texture in your soup.
• Simmer Slowly – Allowing the soup to simmer longer can deepen the flavors. Aim for at least 30 minutes if time allows.
• Make Ahead – Prepare your soup a day in advance. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully overnight.
• Blend for Creaminess – For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender before serving.

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

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

1. Garlic Bread – Toasted bread with garlic butter that adds a crunchy contrast.
2. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful bell peppers filled with grains and veggies complement the soup’s flavors nicely.
3. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity, balancing out the rich soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies bring sweetness and additional nutrients to your table.
5. Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad provides comfort and pairs well with bean-based dishes.
6. Grilled Veggies Skewers – Colorful skewers of grilled vegetables add smokiness that complements the soup’s spices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj), it’s easy to overlook a few details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to keep in mind.

• Skipping Soaking Freekeh or TVP: Not soaking these ingredients overnight can lead to a hard texture. Always soak freekeh or TVP in vegetable broth for better results.
• Overcooking Vegetables: Sautéing vegetables for too long may cause them to lose flavor and nutrients. Cook them just until soft to maintain their taste and health benefits.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Adding insufficient spices can result in bland soup. Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed for enhanced flavor.
• Using Low-Quality Beans: Canned beans can vary in quality, affecting the soup’s texture. Opt for high-quality brands or cook your own white beans for a richer flavor.
• Not Allowing Enough Simmer Time: Rushing the simmering process can prevent flavors from developing. Let the soup simmer for at least 20 minutes to meld all ingredients perfectly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Will keep well for up to 4 days.

Freezing Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj) that you might find helpful.

What can I use instead of freekeh?

You can substitute freekeh with quinoa, bulgur, or even lentils if you prefer a different texture or flavor.

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

Yes! If you use gluten-free grains like quinoa instead of freekeh, this soup can easily be made gluten-free.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition.

How spicy is this soup?

The soup has a mild spice level due to paprika. You can adjust it by adding more paprika or incorporating chili flakes if you prefer it spicier.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors intensify. Just store it properly!

Final Thoughts

Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup (Pasulj) is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your preferences. Whether served as an appetizer or a hearty main course, this soup is sure to impress your guests. Give it a try and enjoy its comforting warmth!