This Simple Bean Soup from El Bulli (world’s all time greatest restaurant!) is a delightful recipe that brings the essence of one of the finest dining experiences right into your kitchen. Perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with friends, this soup is not only comforting but also incredibly easy to make. The unique combination of flavors and the rich texture will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it features a special touch with Picada, making it a standout dish that’s both simple and sophisticated.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can create a delicious meal in no time.
- Flavorful and Satisfying: The blend of herbs and beans creates a depth of flavor that warms the soul.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a light lunch, paired with bread for dinner, or even as an appetizer at a gathering.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with beans and fresh herbs, it’s a nutritious option that’s vegan and vegetarian-friendly.
- Impressive Presentation: Serve it with Picada for an elegant finish that adds texture and flavor.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Simple Bean Soup from El Bulli smoothly, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large heavy-based pot
- Wooden spoon
- Blender stick or jug blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large heavy-based pot: This ensures even cooking and prevents burning while sautéing the onions and herbs.
- Blender stick or jug blender: Essential for achieving that creamy consistency without transferring hot soup to another container.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large garlic clove, minced
- 1 brown onion (1 large or 2 small), finely chopped (~180g/6oz)
- 1/4 tsp fresh thyme, chopped (sub 1/8 tsp dried)
- 1/4 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped (sub 1/8 tsp dried)
- 1 bay leaf, fresh (or 1/2 dried)
- 1/3 cup tomato passata
For the Beans
- 4 x 400g/14oz cans cannellini beans, drained (Note 2 for dried)
- 3 cups vegetable stock
For the Picada
- 1 cup fresh parsley leaves, roughly chopped
- 1 medium garlic clove, roughly chopped
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup whole hazelnuts, skin on (or almonds)
- 1/2 tsp cooking/kosher salt (or 1/4 tsp table salt)
How to Make Simple Bean Soup from El Bulli (world’s all time greatest restaurant!)
Step 1: Sauté Onion and Herbs
Heat oil in a large heavy-based pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic, finely chopped onion, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Cook while stirring regularly for about 8 minutes until the onions are deep golden brown and sweet.
Step 2: Cook Tomato Passata
Add tomato passata to the pot. Reduce heat to low and cook for an additional 8 minutes. You want the tomato to change from red and watery to dark brown and thick—this step is crucial for enhancing flavor!
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Stir in drained cannellini beans followed by vegetable stock. Adjust heat so it’s bubbling gently. Let it simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes.
Step 4: Blitz for Creaminess
Transfer approximately 2/3 cup (150ml) of soup into a jug or jar suitable for your blender stick. Blend until smooth then stir it back into the main soup mixture to thicken it up.
Step 5: Stir in Picada
Just before serving, add in two tablespoons of prepared Picada. Taste test your soup; if needed, adjust salt levels since canned beans vary in sodium content.
Step 6: Serve Up!
Ladle soup into bowls and top each serving with a teaspoon of remaining Picada. A side of crusty bread—like easy Artisan bread or French brioche—is highly recommended!
How to Serve Simple Bean Soup from El Bulli (world’s all time greatest restaurant!)
Serving Simple Bean Soup from El Bulli is all about enhancing its rich flavors and textures. This soup can be enjoyed in various ways that elevate the dining experience while keeping it simple, just like the recipe itself.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Parsley or Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness to each bowl.
Add a Drizzle of Olive Oil
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances the flavor and provides a smooth finish.
Accompany with Crusty Bread
- Artisan Bread: Serve with slices of crusty artisan bread for dipping. The texture complements the soup beautifully.
Serve with a Side Salad
- Mixed Greens: A light salad with mixed greens, lemon vinaigrette, and nuts balances the meal well.
Include a Cheese Plate
- Cheese Selection: Offer a small cheese platter with aged cheeses that pair wonderfully with the bean soup.
How to Perfect Simple Bean Soup from El Bulli (world’s all time greatest restaurant!)
Perfecting your Simple Bean Soup from El Bulli involves honing in on flavors and techniques. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve the best result.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Always choose fresh herbs, quality olive oil, and organic beans for superior taste.
- Don’t Rush Cooking Steps: Allow enough time for each cooking step, especially when caramelizing onions; this adds depth of flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning Wisely: Taste throughout the cooking process, especially before serving, to enhance the overall flavor.
- Experiment with Picada: Feel free to adjust the Picada ingredients based on your preferences; it’s key for adding richness.
Best Side Dishes for Simple Bean Soup from El Bulli (world’s all time greatest restaurant!)
Pairing side dishes with your Simple Bean Soup brings variety and balance to your meal. Consider these options to complement your soup perfectly.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted slices topped with garlic butter add a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring in additional nutrients and flavors that harmonize well.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with lemon dressing offers protein and complements the soup’s heartiness.
- Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice or grains provide a filling addition that pairs beautifully.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a satisfying side that everyone loves.
- Simple Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens tossed in balsamic vinaigrette brightens up your meal nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Simple Bean Soup from El Bulli (world’s all time greatest restaurant!), it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them:
Skipping the sautéing step: This step enhances the flavor of your soup. Make sure to cook the onions and garlic until they’re golden brown before adding other ingredients.
Not cooking the tomato passata long enough: It’s essential to cook the tomato until it thickens and darkens in color, as this builds depth in flavor. Don’t rush this part!
Using insufficient vegetable stock: The stock is crucial for a rich soup base. Be generous with it for the best results.
Neglecting the Picada: The Picada adds a unique touch that should not be omitted. Always stir it in just before serving for maximum impact.
Overcooking or undercooking beans: If using dried beans, ensure they are cooked properly before adding them to the soup. Canned beans should be drained well but don’t need further cooking.
Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Since canned beans vary in salt content, always taste your soup before serving and adjust accordingly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- The soup can last up to 4-5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Simple Bean Soup from El Bulli (world’s all time greatest restaurant!)
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure to leave space for expansion.
Reheating Simple Bean Soup from El Bulli (world’s all time greatest restaurant!)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring frequently until heated evenly.
- Stovetop: Place in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Simple Bean Soup from El Bulli (world’s all time greatest restaurant!):
Can I use different types of beans?
Yes! You can substitute other beans like kidney or black beans if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly for dried beans.
Is this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! The Simple Bean Soup from El Bulli (world’s all time greatest restaurant!) is vegan-friendly as it uses vegetable stock and no animal products.
How do I customize this bean soup?
Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or spinach, or spices like cumin or paprika for an extra kick of flavor!
What can I serve with this soup?
Crusty bread pairs wonderfully with this soup. You might also enjoy it alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
How long does it take to prepare?
The total prep and cook time is approximately 60 minutes, making it a quick option for dinner any day of the week!
Final Thoughts
The Simple Bean Soup from El Bulli (world’s all time greatest restaurant!) is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Its rich flavors and comforting ingredients make it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices, ensuring that you create a dish that suits your taste perfectly!
Simple Bean Soup from El Bulli
Indulge in the warmth and comfort of Simple Bean Soup from El Bulli, a renowned culinary masterpiece that transforms your kitchen into a gourmet haven. This delightful recipe, celebrated for its rich flavors and appealing texture, is perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings with friends. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can create a satisfying meal that showcases the harmonious blend of beans, fresh herbs, and a special touch of Picada.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Sautéing, Simmering, Blending
- Cuisine: Spanish
Ingredients
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Garlic
- Onion
- Fresh thyme
- Fresh rosemary
- Bay leaf
- Tomato passata
- Canned cannellini beans
- Vegetable stock
- Fresh parsley
- Hazelnuts (or almonds)
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic and chopped onion with thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf until golden brown.
- Add tomato passata; reduce heat and cook until thickened.
- Stir in drained beans and vegetable stock. Simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes.
- Blend a portion of the soup to achieve creaminess, then return it to the pot.
- Stir in prepared Picada just before serving.
- Serve topped with additional Picada and enjoy with crusty bread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
