If you follow my blog daily, then you know I have been making different “Soup Mix in a Jar” recipes. This 3-Bean Chili Soup in a Jar is my favorite! Honestly, I love making this soup for Mark and me. As I get older, I prefer things to be as easy as possible. If I make a ton of these in one day, we can eat them for many months to come! These soup-in-a-jar recipes are also great for prepping. If you love to eat, but don’t really love to cook, these jars are for you. You can also make these for gifts. These are the dried vegetables I’m stocking to make all my soup mixes. Dried Vegetables for Soups
Items You Will Need in the Kitchen
- Slow Cooker (I used a 3-1/2 Quart One)
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
- Pint wide-mouth mason jars (16-ounce) with lids and rings
- Funnel for jars
- Funnel for seasoning bags
- Seasoning Bags (these are the ones I purchased, 3.5 inches by 5.5 inches)
- Twine for Tags
3 Bean Chili Soup Mix In A Jar
If you’re tired of eating the same soups over and over, this 3 Bean Chili Soup Mix in a Jar is the perfect combination for you. Beans are so inexpensive, which makes this the ideal meal to make! Not only is this soup easy to make, but it’s also super nutritious. Imagine all the nutrition you’ll be putting in your family’s belly with this bean soup recipe.
History of Three Bean Soup
Three Bean Soup has a long and humble history rooted in thrift, nourishment, and traditional home cooking. Long before refrigeration and modern grocery stores, cooks relied on dry beans as a dependable pantry staple. Beans were inexpensive, shelf-stable, and packed with protein, making them essential in kitchens across Europe and the Americas.
Early Origins of Bean-Based Soups
Bean soups date back thousands of years, with evidence of legume-based stews found in ancient Roman, Greek, and Middle Eastern cultures. Beans were often simmered with herbs, onions, and water to create filling meals that could feed large families with minimal ingredients. Using multiple varieties of beans in one pot was common, as it added texture, flavor, and nutritional balance.
Beans in the Americas
After beans were domesticated in the Americas over 7,000 years ago, Indigenous peoples cultivated varieties such as black beans, pinto beans, and white beans. These beans became foundational ingredients in regional cooking. Early settlers quickly adopted them, especially during times when meat was scarce or expensive.
Three-Bean Soup evolved as a practical way to stretch food supplies, combining whatever dried beans were available. The soup could be simmered over a hearth, making it ideal for farm households and frontier living.
The Rise of Three-Bean Soup in American Home Cooking
By the late 1800s and early 1900s, Three-Bean Soup became a staple in American farmhouse kitchens, church suppers, and community meals. Cookbooks from this era frequently included bean soups as economical and nourishing dishes. The addition of spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika reflects regional influences, particularly from the American Southwest and immigrant cuisines.
During the Great Depression, Three-Bean Soup gained renewed popularity. Families relied on dried beans and simple seasonings to create filling meals that could be served over several days. Leftovers often tasted even better the next day as flavors deepened.
Modern Variations of Three-Bean Soup
Today, Three-Bean Soup remains a symbol of comfort food and budget-friendly cooking. While traditional recipes were often meatless, modern versions may include ground beef, ham, or sausage, along with tomatoes for added richness. Vegetarian and vegan adaptations remain popular due to the soup’s naturally high protein content.
Slow cookers and pressure cookers have made preparation easier, but the heart of Three-Bean Soup remains the same: simple ingredients, slow cooking, and hearty nourishment.
Why Three-Bean Soup Endures
Three Bean Soup has stood the test of time because it reflects values many cooks still cherish—simplicity, frugality, and wholesome ingredients. Whether made for warmth on a cold day or as part of meal prepping, it continues to connect modern kitchens to generations of traditional home cooks.
Ingredients For Making The Soup
Dry Black Beans: Black beans add a rich, earthy flavor and a creamy texture once cooked. They hold their shape well and help create a hearty, satisfying soup base.
Dry Pinto Beans: Pinto beans bring a mild, nutty taste and soften beautifully as they simmer. They naturally thicken the soup, adding body and comfort.
Dry White Beans: White beans contribute a subtle, delicate flavor and a smooth, tender bite. They balance more pungent spices, creating a well-rounded bean blend.
Dried Minced Onions: Dried minced onions provide gentle sweetness and onion flavor without overpowering the soup. They rehydrate as they cook, blending seamlessly into the broth.
Dried Vegetables: A mix of dried vegetables adds depth, color, and extra nutrition. As they simmer, they release concentrated flavor that enhances the soup’s overall richness.
Chili Powder: Chili powder gives the soup a warm, mildly spicy backbone, adding depth without overwhelming heat.
Cumin: Cumin adds a smoky, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with beans and chili spices, giving the soup a classic, comforting taste.
Cinnamon: A small amount of cinnamon adds subtle warmth and a hint of sweetness, balancing savory and spicy flavors.
Paprika: Paprika brings mild sweetness and gentle smokiness while adding a beautiful color to the broth.
Sugar: Sugar softens acidity and balances the spices, creating a smoother, more rounded flavor.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder delivers savory depth and aroma, blending evenly throughout the soup.
Salt and Pepper: Salt enhances all the flavors, while pepper adds light heat and sharpness for balance.
Water (6 cups): Water forms the foundation of the soup, allowing the beans and spices to release their flavors as they cook slowly.
Optional Add-Ons
Cooked Ground Beef (½ pound): Adds hearty, savory richness and extra protein, turning the soup into a filling meal.
Diced Tomatoes (14–15 oz can): Bring brightness and mild acidity, enhancing the overall depth of flavor.
Tomato Sauce (6 oz can): Adds body and smooth tomato richness, helping create a thicker, more cohesive broth.
3 Bean Chili Soup Mix In A Jar Recipe
Gather ingredients so you can start filling the jars. Grab some measuring cups and some measuring spoons as well. You may want a funnel; it’s easier to fill the jars. These are the Seasoning Bags I used. I bought the 3.5” x 5.5” size bags.
Ingredients
Gather the ingredients so you are ready to fill the pint-size (16-ounce) mason jars.
Layer Beans in the Jars and Fill the Baggies
Grab a wide-mouth pint mason jar (16 ounces) to layer some of the ingredients shown above. Start with black beans, pinto beans, and white beans. Be sure to watch for small rocks in the beans. Place the dried vegetables in a baggie and place them on top of the beans. Place the seasonings in a small bag and close it. The seasoning bag will go on top of the vegetable baggie and under the lid.
How To Cook The Ingredients
Step One: Wash Beans
After opening the jar, remove the seasonings and the baggie with the vegetables. Please rinse the beans before placing them in the slow cooker.
Step Two: Add Water
Add 6 cups of water, the dried vegetables, and the seasoning bag to the beans in the slow cooker. Cook on high for about 7 hours or until the beans are tender.
Step Three: Fry Meat
Add the cooked ground beef, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste, and cook on high for one more hour.
Finished Product
Serve warm with shredded cheese, corn chips, and a dollop of sour cream. Enjoy.
3 Bean Chili Soup Mix In A Jar Recipe
3-Bean Chili Soup Mix In A Jar
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup dry black beans
- 1/4 cup dry pinto beans
- 1/4 cup dry white beans
- 1/4 cup dried vegetables
- 1 tablespoon dried minced onions
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon white granulated sugar
- 2-3 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 6 cups water
- ADD-ONS: 1/2 pound cooked ground beef, one 14-15-ounce can of diced tomatoes, and one 6-ounce can of tomato paste.
Instructions
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Grab a wide-mouth pint mason jar (16-ounces) to layer some of the ingredients shown above.
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Start with the black beans, pinto beans, and white beans. Be sure and watch for small rocks in the beans.
-
Place the dried vegetables in a baggie and place them on top of the beans.
-
Place the seasonings in a small bag and close it. The seasoning bag will go on top of the vegetable baggie and under the lid.
Cooking The 3 Bean Chili
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After opening the jar, remove the seasonings and the baggie with the vegetables.
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Please rinse the beans before placing them in the slow cooker.
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Add 6 cups of water, the dried vegetables, and the seasoning bag to the beans in the slow cooker.
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Cook on high for about 7 hours or until the beans are tender.
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Add the cooked ground beef, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste, and cook on high for one more hour.
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Serve warm with shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream. Enjoy.
What to Serve With Three-Bean Soup
Three-Bean Soup is a hearty, protein-rich dish made with dried beans, savory spices, and a comforting broth. Because they are both filling and simple, the best side dishes are those that add texture, freshness, or warmth without overpowering the soup. Whether you’re serving it as a weeknight dinner or a cozy cold-weather meal, these pairings complete the table.
Bread and Baked Goods
Crusty Bread or Artisan Loaf
A thick slice of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth. Sourdough, French bread, or a rustic country loaf pairs beautifully with Three-Bean Soup.
Cornbread
Cornbread is a classic companion to bean soups. Its slightly sweet, crumbly texture balances the savory spices and hearty beans.
Biscuits or Dinner Rolls
Soft biscuits or warm dinner rolls add comfort and make the meal more filling, especially for family-style dinners.
Fresh and Light Sides
Simple Green Salad
A crisp green salad with lettuce, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness and contrast to the rich soup.
Coleslaw
Creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw provides crunch and acidity that complements the soft texture of the beans.
Tomato and Cucumber Salad
Fresh tomatoes and cucumbers bring brightness and balance to the meal, especially when the soup is served warm and hearty.
Vegetable Side Dishes
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted carrots, squash, or Brussels sprouts add depth and a lightly caramelized flavor that pairs well with bean-based soups.
Steamed or Buttered Greens
Green beans, spinach, or collard greens offer a simple, nutritious side without overpowering the soup.
Protein Additions
Grilled or Baked Sausage
Sausage adds smoky, savory flavor and pairs naturally with bean soups, especially when the soup itself is meatless.
Ham or Smoked Turkey
Slices of ham or smoked turkey add richness and make the meal more substantial.
Toppings and Garnishes
Shredded Cheese
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Colby cheese melts nicely over hot soup, adding creaminess.
Sour Cream or Plain Yogurt
A dollop of sour cream softens the spices and adds a tangy contrast.
Fresh Herbs
Chopped parsley or cilantro adds color and a fresh finish.
Desserts to Finish the Meal
Fruit Crisp or Cobbler
A warm apple or berry crisp is a comforting way to end a soup-based meal.
Simple Cookies or Cornmeal Cake
Light desserts keep the meal balanced without feeling heavy.
Recipes to go with the Soup
My Soup In a Jar Series
What jars should I use?
If you plan to make the soup-in-a-jar recipes outlined above, you’ll use 16-ounce pint mason jars. If you want more soup for your family by doubling the recipe, then you’ll need quart mason jars (32-ounce size). However, you can adjust the size of the mason jars to how much soup you want to make in the future. In Utah, the cheapest place to buy canning jars is Walmart, just for your information.
Should I store my soup in bags?
As you will see in some of the soups that I’ve made, there is an option to store them in bags. Just keep in mind that the bags may tear easily.
How long will the soups last?
I have been canning for over 50 years, so safety is super important to me. Keep in mind these soups will store (when appropriately sealed) for around 1 year. However, I encourage you to do what feels best for you! Feel free to consume the soup from a jar at a pace that feels safe for you! I now use a Dicorain, thanks to Ray telling me about it. Dicorain.
Final Word
Three-Bean Soup is a versatile, comforting dish that pairs well with simple breads, fresh salads, and classic sides. Choosing the right accompaniments enhances the meal while keeping the focus on the soup’s hearty, homemade flavor.
As you learn to make these soup mix-in-a-jar recipes, have fun with it. You can follow my recipes, but you can also come up with your own. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your family’s favorite recipes! This 3-Bean Chili Soup mix is a great everyday recipe. I enjoy making the Friendship Soup Mix in a Jar to give as a gift. The Chicken Noodle Soup Mix in a Jar is perfect for when you’re not feeling well or when you’re craving comfort food. I hope you find this recipe as helpful as my family does. May God bless this world, Linda.
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