White Bean Soup Recipe

White Bean Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that highlights the creamy texture and mild flavor of white beans, often complemented by vegetables, herbs, and sometimes meat for added depth. It’s a nutritious and satisfying meal that can be made in various ways, whether vegetarian or with a touch of meat.

White Bean Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups dried white beans (such as cannellini or great northern), soaked overnight and drained (or 4 cans of white beans, drained and rinsed)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup kale or spinach (optional)
• Juice of 1 lemon (optional, for serving)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beans:
   • If using dried beans, soak them overnight in plenty of water. Drain and rinse before cooking. If using canned beans, simply drain and rinse them.
2. Sauté Vegetables:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add Garlic and Herbs:
   • Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Add Broth and Beans:
   • Add the soaked (or canned) white beans and broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes if using dried beans (15-20 minutes if using canned beans). The soup is ready when the beans are tender.
5. Add Greens:
   • If using, stir in the kale or spinach and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes until wilted.
6. Season:
   • Remove the bay leaf and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add lemon juice for brightness.
7. Serve:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.

Tips:

• Creamy Variation: For a creamier soup, blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender and return it to the pot.
• Add Protein: You can include diced ham, sausage, or chicken for extra protein. Just add it when you add the broth.
• Storage: This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and also freezes well.

Enjoy!

This White Bean Soup is not only comforting and nutritious but also flexible, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences and what you have on hand. Perfect for chilly days or when you need a simple, hearty meal!