This Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup is a warm, hearty dish that combines creamy white beans, vibrant vegetables, and a rich medley of spices. The addition of freekeh or TVP creates a protein-packed base that satisfies hunger while keeping it completely plant-based and oil-free. Whether you’re looking for a comforting lunch or a healthy dinner option, this soup is perfect for any occasion. Serve it with fresh bread or croutons for a full meal experience. It’s an ideal dish for meal prepping, staying cozy during the colder months, or impressing guests with a unique Balkan-inspired recipe.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 onions, finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 leeks, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 3 slices celery root (about 1-inch thick)
- 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cans diced tomatoes
- 8 cups (2 liters) vegetable stock
- 200 g cracked freekeh or TVP (Textured Vegetable Protein)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tsp marjoram
- 2 tsp oregano
- 2 bunches parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp celery salt
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 4 tsp sweet paprika powder
- 1 tsp smoked salt (optional)
Directions:
- If using freekeh, grind it coarsely using a food processor, then soak it overnight in vegetable stock. If substituting with TVP, soak it in enough vegetable stock to cover and let sit overnight.
- In a large soup pot, sauté the onions and garlic in a splash of water until translucent.
- Add the chopped leeks, carrots, and celery root to the pot and sauté briefly.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, white beans, vegetable stock, tomato paste, and all the spices and herbs.
- Allow the soup to simmer on medium heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the freekeh or TVP is soft and fully cooked, adjust the seasoning to taste.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 336 per serving | Servings: 6
A Deep Dive into Vegan Serbian White Bean Soup
Serbian White Bean Soup, or “Pasulj,” is a classic dish rooted in Balkan culinary traditions, known for its comforting flavors and hearty ingredients. With its origins deeply intertwined with Serbia’s cultural and historical food landscape, this dish has been reimagined to fit modern dietary preferences, offering a vegan, oil-free, and plant-based version that maintains its authentic charm while embracing healthier, sustainable choices.
A Dish Steeped in Tradition
Pasulj has been a staple in Serbian households for centuries. Traditionally, this soup was made with white beans, vegetables, and often included smoked meats for added depth. However, its versatility allowed it to adapt over time, accommodating seasonal ingredients and the availability of local produce. This vegan version stays true to the essence of Pasulj by focusing on robust spices, smoky flavors, and nutrient-dense vegetables, all while eliminating animal-based products.
A Nutritional Powerhouse
One of the standout features of this soup is its impressive nutritional profile. The main ingredient, white beans, is an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, which supports digestive health and provides long-lasting energy. They also contain essential minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and calcium, contributing to bone health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Freekeh, another key component in this recipe, is a whole grain known for its nutty flavor and high protein content. It is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a fantastic addition to a plant-based diet. If freekeh isn’t readily available, Textured Vegetable Protein (TVP) offers a similarly high-protein alternative, further enriching the dish’s nutritional value.
Flavor Profile and Ingredients
The soup is a delightful medley of flavors and textures. Sweet paprika, marjoram, and oregano lend their aromatic warmth, while leeks, carrots, and celery root add a subtle sweetness that balances the savory components. Smoked salt or smoked paprika is used to replicate the traditional smokiness of the meat-based version, ensuring the soup retains its depth and complexity.
Tomatoes and tomato paste enhance the soup with a tangy brightness, while the addition of parsley brings a fresh, herbaceous note that ties all the flavors together. The resulting dish is hearty yet light, flavorful without being overwhelming, and nourishing without compromising on taste.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This vegan Serbian White Bean Soup is incredibly versatile and suits a variety of occasions. It makes a fantastic meal prep option, as it stores well in the refrigerator for up to a week and can be frozen for even longer. It’s also a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, offering a warm, comforting dish that caters to diverse dietary needs.
The soup is an excellent choice for lunch or dinner, and its hearty nature makes it filling enough to serve as a main course. Pairing it with crusty sourdough bread, garlic baguette, or even a bread bowl adds a touch of indulgence, while croutons provide a satisfying crunch.
Customizations and Variations
One of the great aspects of this dish is its adaptability. You can customize it to your taste preferences or dietary restrictions with ease:
- Beans: While the recipe calls for white beans, other varieties such as navy beans, cannellini beans, or great northern beans work just as well.
- Grains: Freekeh can be swapped out for pearl barley, bulgur, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
- Spiciness: If you prefer a spicier kick, red pepper flakes, Tabasco, or a dash of chili powder can elevate the heat level.
- Creaminess: For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup or add a splash of coconut milk or cashew cream.
The Role of Plant-Based Cuisine in Modern Diets
This recipe exemplifies how traditional dishes can be reinvented to align with contemporary dietary trends without losing their essence. The shift towards plant-based eating is driven by health-conscious choices, environmental sustainability, and ethical considerations. Recipes like this one demonstrate how plant-based cuisine can be flavorful, satisfying, and rich in history and culture.
Conclusion:
Serbian White Bean Soup is more than just a meal it’s a celebration of tradition, flavor, and nutrition. By transforming this classic Balkan dish into a vegan, oil-free version, it becomes accessible to a wider audience while retaining its cultural roots.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this soup invites you to explore the rich culinary heritage of Serbia while embracing the benefits of a plant-based lifestyle. Its simplicity, heartiness, and adaptability make it a must-try recipe for anyone looking to expand their repertoire of healthy, delicious dishes.