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 Dutch brown bean soup (Bruine Bonensoep) with smoked sausage, bacon, and warm spices like cloves and bay leaves.
Nutrition per serving
385 Calories
20g Protein
38g Carbs
16g Fat
9g Fiber
Ingredients
Instructions
- . Cook bacon until crispy. Remove, leaving fat. Sauté onion, carrots, celery 8 minutes. Add garlic.
- . Add beans, sausage, broth, bay leaves, cloves, and nutmeg. Simmer 25 minutes.
- . Remove bay leaves and cloves. Mash some beans for thickness. Add vinegar.
- . Season and serve topped with bacon and 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.