This Dutch bean soup, known as Bruine Bonensoep in the Netherlands, is a hearty winter staple that's been warming Dutch families for generations. The combination of brown beans, smoked sausage, and warm spices creates a rich, satisfying soup.
What makes this soup distinctly Dutch are the warm spices - cloves and nutmeg - that add an unexpected depth. The touch of vinegar at the end brightens all the flavors and cuts through the richness.
Traditional Dutch Flavors
The characteristic Dutch taste comes from:
- Cloves - Warm, aromatic spice used sparingly
- Nutmeg - Adds warmth and depth
- Apple cider vinegar - Traditional finishing touch
- Smoked sausage - Rookworst is traditional
Choosing Your Sausage
Traditional Dutch rookworst can be hard to find, but good substitutes include:
- Kielbasa (Polish smoked sausage)
- Andouille sausage
- Any quality smoked sausage
Serving Suggestions
- Dark rye bread with butter
- Pickles on the side
- Mustard for the sausage
- Cold Dutch beer
Dutch Bean Soup
Traditional Bruine Bonensoep with brown beans, smoked sausage, and warm spices.
Nutrition per serving
385Calories
20gProtein
38gCarbs
16gFat
9gFiber
4gSugar
Ingredients
Instructions
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Cook bacon. In a large pot over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy, about 8 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving fat in pot.
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Sauté vegetables. Add onion, carrots, and celery to the bacon fat. Cook for 8 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
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Build the soup. Add beans, sliced sausage, broth, bay leaves, cloves, and nutmeg. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes.
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Finish the soup. Remove bay leaves and cloves. Using a potato masher, mash some of the beans to thicken the soup. Stir in apple cider vinegar.
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Serve. Season with salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls and top with crispy bacon and fresh parsley.
Recipe Notes
- Traditional: Use rookworst if you can find it.
- Spice tip: Wrap cloves in cheesecloth for easy removal.
- Storage: Tastes even better the next day. Keeps 5 days refrigerated.
- Vegetarian: Skip meat, use smoked paprika and liquid smoke.
