How To Make 15 Bean Soup

The first time I had 15 bean soup was a cold winter evening (cold for Florida anyway) at my uncle's. I was visiting my uncle and aunt. The aroma coming from the kitchen made my stomach growl although I initially told my aunt I wasn't hungry when she offered me something to eat. Not that she is pushy, but I knew she would ask my again if I was sure I didn't want anything. When the came came I took her up on the offer and it was good.

Fast forward about a year and I attempted to make this for my family and it was a success. The only difference is that she used Ham pieces and I believe a ham hock to season the soup. I, on the other hand purchased a package of Hurst's Hambeens Bran 15 Bean Soup. Without paying attention I accidentally picked up the Cajun style brand. I gave it a try anyway and the rest is history.

Here is what you need to get started:

20 oz. 15 Bean Soup

1 lb Italian sausage

1 large Onion (chopped)

1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes

Juice

 of 1 lemon

1-2 cloves Garlic (minced)

You'll notice in the picture a few things. 1.) I did not use the juice of a lemon, I used what I had on hand at the time. Fresh lemon juice is the better way to go. 2.) The same goes for garlic (again, used what I had). 3.) There is more than one pound of meat and that’s simply because my husband like it that way. It cooks more like a hearty chili.

Now let's cook this. First you want to soak your beans overnight in a large pot with about 8 cups of water. Before cooking drain the soaking water and rinse the bean a few time to remove any debris and/or stones.

1. Fill your pot with 8 cups of water and bring the pot to a boil. Reduce heat, cover the pot and simmer for about 2 hours.

After about an hour begin cooking other ingredients that will be added to the beans.
2. Saute' onion, garlic and sausage until browned. I usually saute my onions for a few minutes before adding the garlic and sausage. 



3. Drain grease and add all ingredients to the beans (tomatoes, lemon juice, onion, sausage and garlic). Also included is a seasoning pack to add.
4. Continue cooking another 30 minute, Add salt and pepper to your liking and you are ready to eat!



*This is not my recipe. The original recipe is actually found on the back of the Hurst's package.