This cozy white bean soup is packed with tasty beans, veggies, and herbs, making it a warm hug in a bowl! It’s super simple to whip up and healthy too.
I love how quick it is to prepare! Just toss everything in a pot and let it simmer while you relax. Perfect for chilly days or when you’re craving comfort food! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Beans: Cannellini and navy beans are great choices for this soup. If you need a substitute, you can use chickpeas or lentils, but keep in mind they will change the texture.
Vegetables: Onions, carrots, and celery add depth. For a twist, try adding bell peppers or zucchini. Frozen veggies can also be a great shortcut!
Broth: Vegetable broth is ideal for a vegetarian version. Chicken broth gives extra richness. If you’re low on broth, water works in a pinch, but add some extra herbs for flavor.
Herbs: Dried thyme and rosemary are classic. If you’re out of these, Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like parsley can also brighten the soup!
How Do You Achieve a Creamy Texture in White Bean Soup?
The creaminess in this soup comes from the beans! Here’s how to do it:
- After simmering, use an immersion blender directly in the pot. Blend it gently for a smooth base while leaving some whole beans for texture.
- If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully scoop out about a third of the soup, blend it until smooth, then mix it back into the pot.
- Adjust the thickness by adding a bit more broth if desired. This method keeps the dish hearty and comforting!
White Bean Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups cooked white beans (such as cannellini or navy beans), drained and rinsed if canned
- 4 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or a few fresh rosemary sprigs
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white wine vinegar for brightness
- Crusty bread, for serving
Time Estimate:
This delightful soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to cook. In about 40 minutes total, you’ll have a delicious, comforting soup ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook while stirring occasionally until the vegetables soften, which will take about 5-7 minutes. This gives the soup a wonderful base of flavor!
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, sprinkle in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it’s fragrant. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
3. Combine Ingredients:
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Stir in the cooked white beans, broth, thyme, and rosemary. Increase the heat to bring the soup to a boil, and then lower it again to let it simmer.
4. Simmer the Soup:
Let the soup simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and thickens the soup a bit.
5. Blend for Creaminess:
If you like a creamier texture, you can use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup right in the pot. Alternatively, scoop out about a third of the soup, blend it until smooth, and then mix it back in. The combination of creamy and chunky will make it delightful!
6. Add Fresh Ingredients:
Stir in the chopped fresh basil and season the soup with salt and black pepper to your taste. If you’re feeling adventurous, add the tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to brighten everything up!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Spoon the hot soup into bowls, garnishing with additional fresh basil leaves and a sprinkling of cracked black pepper. Serve alongside slices of crusty bread for dipping, and enjoy this hearty, comforting meal with loved ones!
This White Bean Soup, filled with tender beans, vegetables, and aromatic herbs, is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your soul. Enjoy every delicious spoonful!
Can I Use Canned Beans Instead of Dried?
Absolutely! Canned beans are a great time-saver. Just be sure to drain and rinse them well to remove excess sodium before adding them to the soup.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes! This recipe is already vegetarian if you use vegetable broth. To ensure it’s vegan, just skip any optional toppings that contain dairy, and you’re all set!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 3 months. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative. Spinach, kale, or even diced potatoes can be delicious additions. Just remember to adjust cooking times slightly for any extra ingredients.
