
Campfire Bean Soup is a hearty, rustic stew traditionally cooked over an open fire, often associated with camping, cowboy culture, and outdoor gatherings in North America. It typically features a base of dried beans (like pinto or kidney beans) simmered with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and often smoked meat such as bacon or ham hock for flavor. The dish is celebrated for its simplicity and ability to be prepared in a single pot with minimal preparation.
This soup is a protein and fiber powerhouse, providing sustained energy from complex carbohydrates while being moderate in fat depending on the meat used. A typical serving offers a good source of iron, folate, and potassium, with a calorie range of approximately 250-350 calories per bowl.
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbs | 35 g |
| Fat | 3 g |
| Fiber | 10 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 680 mg |
| Potassium | 550 mg |
| Iron | 3.5 mg |
| Magnesium | 60 mg |
| Phosphorus | 180 mg |
| Folate | 120 mcg |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamin) | 0.3 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.2 mg |
| Zinc | 2.0 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
Campfire Bean Soup is culturally significant as a symbol of communal outdoor cooking and self-reliance, often passed down through generations of campers and hikers. Nutritionally, the combination of beans with a small amount of meat creates a complete protein profile, making it a particularly efficient meal for fueling physical activity in remote settings.