How to Make the BEST Pinto Beans Soup of Your Life | EASY BLUE ZONES RECIPES | Ikarian Diet

vegetable broth

🥗Healthier: homemade vegetable stock

💰Cheaper: water

Homemade stock enhances flavor without added cost.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Canola oil is less expensive and has a neutral flavor.

red pepper flakes

🥗Healthier: fresh chili

💰Cheaper: black pepper

Black pepper is a common substitute for heat.

parsley

🥗Healthier: cilantro

💰Cheaper: spinach

Spinach can add color and nutrition at a lower cost.

Soak pinto beans overnight in water.

Drain and rinse the soaked beans.

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in diced tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Add soaked beans, vegetable broth, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and black pepper.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1-1.5 hours until beans are tender.

Check occasionally and add more broth or water if needed.

Remove bay leaves before serving.

Stir in lemon juice and adjust seasoning to taste.

Garnish with chopped parsley and red pepper flakes before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary