Soupermom and I were at a barbecue over the summer. As I was chowing down on some baked beans, I said, “If I had one wish in this world, it would be to make baked bean soup. The flavors, the smokiness, the beans – oh it is heaven. But it simply CANNOT be done. This wish will never be granted.” Soupermom stared at me for a moment and then replied, “Seriously? You really don’t think we could figure this out? Don’t you think we could toss together some beans, smokey spanish paprika, maybe some dijon mustard, and, oh… some molasses and make this soup? It’ll be thick and hearty, with an awesome aroma. Yeah, not really beyond our abilities, Soupergirl. We are soup makers, you tool.” She had a point. She also used an insult from circa 1997, but that’s not important now. She continued, “Also, if you had one wish, would it really be to make baked bean soup? You don’t think that’s a little narrow minded? Like maybe world peace would be nice. Or, an end to childhood poverty? No? Going to stick with baked bean soup? What will you wish for after I create this recipe?  A flying pony? A talking puppy? Seriously, Soupergirl.” Perhaps I should change my name to Soupertool.

The Black Eyed Peas always eat this soup when they are on tour. That previous sentence was a total lie. But I think they should eat this soup because they would love it. Here’s the deal. My tough food critic friend Rivka (who writes the amazing food blog Not Derby Pie – check it out!) tasted this soup and told me she immediately became addicted to it. Try it for yourself and see if you too develop a bad habit. In this context bad = good. This soup has a wildly unique flavor. We’ve thrown together a crazy blend of spices to give the soup an almost meaty flavor. Almost, I say, as you and I know the secret truth about Soupergirl soups (there’s no meat…shhh…don’t tell….). This soup is simply awesome – the kind of soup you want to take home and introduce to your mom. Oh, also it’s really healthy but I promise you won’t notice.