Portuguese Bean Soup II

Ingredients and Weight:

• 1 pound dried white beans (such as navy or Cannellini beans)
• 6 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 onions, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 pound small egg noodles (such as angel hair or capellini)

Preparation Time:

• 1 hour 15 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 2 hours

Difficulty Level:

• 3 (medium)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Rinse the beans thoroughly and sort through to remove any debris. Place the beans in a large pot or Dutch oven and cover with cold water by at least 2 inches. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beans are tender. Drain and set aside.
2. In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and tomato paste and cook for 1 minute more.
3. Stir in the oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
4. Add the cooked beans and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 45 minutes, or until the soup has thickened.
5. Add the parsley and egg noodles. Cook until the noodles are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Serve hot with additional parsley sprinkled on top.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 350 per serving
• Fat: 10 grams
• Carbohydrates: 50 grams
• Protein: 15 grams
• Fiber: 10 grams

Dish Characteristics:

• Savory and flavorful soup
• Hearty and filling
• Suitable for a variety of dietary restrictions (vegetarian, gluten-free)

User Comments:

• "This soup is delicious and comforting. The flavors are rich and satisfying."
• "I love the addition of egg noodles, it makes the soup even more filling."
• "I highly recommend this recipe, it's a crowd-pleaser."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth to control the saltiness of the soup.
• If you don't have any egg noodles, you can substitute any other type of pasta or rice.
• This soup can be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve.