Pinto Bean Soup

Pinto Bean Soup

Cooking pinto beans can take some time, but this soup is really good! Adding some bacon makes it very tasty, although you can skip it if you strive for a healthy vegetarian meal.
Pinto beans, like all beans are a great source of protein and fiber. They also contain vitamins like B1 and B6 and minerals like copper, magnesium and potassium.

Here is the recipe for 4-6 servings:

Ingredients:

2 cups pinto beans
4 slices bacon cut into small pieces
1 medium chopped onion
1-2 chopped carrot
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp marjoram
1/4 tsp thyme
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Vegeta
3 tbsp tomato sauce
4 cups water


Directions:

1. Pick through and rinse beans.
2. Soak beans in water overnight. Drain off water.
3. In a skillet brown bacon, add onion and carrot. Add tomato sauce. Stir.
4. Add spices.
5. Add mixture to drained beans. 
6. Pour around 6 cups of water. (Might need more water, depending on the desired consistency of the soup).
7. Simmer on medium heat for 3 hours. Stir occasionally.
8. Check if beans are soft enough and cooked the way you like them.
9. Serve warm, garnished with green onion and cheese.

Enjoy!