Finding and Enjoying the Rich History of U.S. Senate Bean Soup

As American as apple pie U.S. Senate Bean Soup is a unique culinary tradition with a fascinating political history dating back over 100 years. This hearty soup is still served every day in the U.S. Senate dining rooms in Washington D.C. While not as famous as Senate stalwarts like the filibuster, this soup is an icon in its own right. Its savory recipe and ties to power make it intriguing to history buffs and soup lovers alike.

Below I’ll explore the origins of Senate Bean Soup where you can purchase it, and how to enjoy this piece of Americana in your own home. Pull up a bowl!

The Story Behind Senate Bean Soup

So how did a simple dried bean soup become an icon? The tradition began in the early 20th century at the request of Senator Fred Dubois of Idaho Seeking a soup hearty enough to satisfy Senators through marathon debates, he asked the Senate kitchen to come up with a bean-based recipe.

After months of tasting different versions, the bean soup served on July 10, 1901 was a big hit. It was added to the daily Senate menu, where it has appeared every day since as “Senate Bean Soup.” Over 100,000 gallons are served annually!

The original 1901 recipe remains a closely guarded secret only known by the Senate chefs. It includes navy beans, mashed potatoes, onions, heavy cream, and seasoning. Vegetables like carrots, celery and tomatoes are sometimes added as well. Efforts to reveal the full recipe have been blocked to protect this Senate tradition.

Where to Buy Canned Senate Bean Soup

To enjoy this legendary dish outside the hallowed halls of Congress, you can purchase canned versions online or in select stores.

The most popular brand is Progresso’s U.S. Senate Bean with Ham Soup. Progresso partnered with the Senate in the 1980s to produce the canned version. The soup is certified by the Sergeant at Arms as being “prepared according to the specifications of the United States Senate.”

Other brands like Dominique’s Finer Foods also offer their takes on classic Senate Bean Soup certified by the Sergeant at Arms. The Dominique’s version contains smoked ham and is seasoned with cloves and black pepper.

You can find both the Progresso and Dominique’s versions online at sites like:

• Amazon.com
• Walmart.com
• Target.com
• Jet.com

Brick and mortar stores like Walmart or Kroger may also carry them seasonally, often around election time when interest peaks. As demand is limited, stock is not consistent so pick up a case when you see it!

For the full experience, visit the Capitol Hill area of Washington D.C. where some eateries serve the soup year-round. The Market Lunch on Capitol Hill is renowned for its authentic preparation.

Making Your Own Senate Bean Soup

Once you get a taste, you may want to try making Senate Bean Soup yourself. There are many “copycat” recipes that try to re-create the original, usually involving navy beans, potatoes, onions, and ham.

You can easily find these copycat recipes online by searching for “Senate bean soup recipe.” The recipes on sites like Taste of Home and All Recipes seem closest to the canned versions.

The recipe below combines the most common elements found in multiple recipes:

Senate Bean Soup Copycat Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb dried navy beans
• 6 cups water
• 1 smoked ham hock
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 ribs celery, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 3 potatoes, peeled and diced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse and sort beans, then soak overnight. Drain.
2. Add beans and water to large pot. Bring to boil then reduce heat to simmer.
3. Add ham hock, onions, celery and carrots. Cook 1 hour until beans are tender.
4. Remove ham hock, dice meat and return to pot.
5. Add potatoes and cook 20 minutes more until potatoes are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

While you probably won’t uncover the original 1901 recipe, these copycat versions let you experience the hearty, satisfying flavor of Senate Bean Soup. The tradition lives on in your own kitchen!

Serving Suggestions for Senate Bean Soup

This versatile soup can be served for lunch or dinner. For hearty meals, pair it with slices of crusty bread, corn bread, or buttermilk biscuits. Add a salad like a wedge or Caesar for a classic soup and salad combo.

For special occasions, ladle the soup into fancy bowls and serve with Champagne, sparkling cider, or white wine. Garnish with fresh parsley or croutons.

Senate Bean Soup also makes memorable meals for events like:

• Election Day parties
• Presidential inaugurations
• 4th of July barbecues
• Veterans Day events
• Washington D.C. vacations
• U.S. history lesson plans

Kids and students especially enjoy tasting this unique “foodie” piece of U.S. Senate tradition. The soup makes learning about government more fun and engaging.

This hearty bean soup makes a cozy winter meal, too. Pair it with grilled cheese sandwiches or ham melts for ultimate comfort food. Adding a swirl of heavy cream or croutons can dress it up.

Order Up a Bowl of Senate History

As one of the oldest U.S. Senate traditions, this classic bean soup is perfect for history buffs, soup aficionados, or anyone craving a filling, savory bowl. Tracking down the canned versions allows you to conveniently enjoy Senate Bean Soup at home. With a slice of cornbread and crisp green salad, it makes a humble yet satisfying meal. Or have fun recreating it yourself with some easy copycat recipes. However you eat it, savor the rich legacy in each spoonful of this 100-year-old tradition in American cuisine and politics.