Introduction
White bean soup is a comforting, nutritious dish that is perfect for any time of year. This creamy and flavorful soup is packed with protein and fiber, making it a filling meal. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s an excellent choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch. The combination of white beans, vegetables, and herbs creates a delightful taste that warms the soul.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
White Beans: 2 cups, dried
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
Onion: 1 medium, chopped
Carrots: 2, sliced
Celery: 2 stalks, sliced
Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
Vegetable Broth: 6 cups
Thyme: 1 teaspoon, dried
Bay Leaf: 1
Salt: to taste
Black Pepper: to taste
Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons
Parsley: for garnish, chopped
Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by dicing onions, carrots, and celery. These will serve as the base for your soup, adding depth and flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery, cooking until they are soft, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Once the vegetables are softened, add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Stir in the vegetable broth, thyme, bay leaves, and white beans. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Step 5: Simmer the Soup
Allow the soup to simmer for at least 30 minutes. This will help meld the flavors together.
Step 6: Adjust Seasoning
After simmering, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to preference.
Step 7: Blend for Creaminess (Optional)
For a creamier texture, you can partially blend the soup using an immersion blender. Blend until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 8: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. You may garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Notes
Note 1: Bean Options
You can use canned beans for convenience or dried beans that have been soaked and cooked beforehand.
Note 2: Vegetable Variations
Feel free to add other vegetables such as kale or spinach for additional nutrition and flavor.
Note 3: Storage Instructions
Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for longer storage.
Note 4: Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Sautéing Aromatics
Sautéing aromatics like onions, garlic, and celery in olive oil helps to build a flavorful base for the soup. Ensure they are cooked until soft and fragrant to enhance the overall taste.
Combining Textures
This soup combines various textures by blending some of the beans for creaminess while leaving the rest whole for a heartier bite. This method adds depth to the soup’s consistency.
Simmering for Flavor
Simmering the soup allows all the ingredients to meld together, enriching the flavor. It’s important to let it simmer long enough so that the beans can absorb the broth’s seasonings.
Seasoning Adjustment
Towards the end of cooking, taste the soup and adjust seasonings, such as salt and pepper, to your liking. A final touch of fresh herbs can also brighten the overall flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor and presentation. Accompany it with crusty bread for a complete meal.
FAQ
Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Yes, using canned beans can save time; just add them during the last few minutes of simmering.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
This soup is already vegetarian-friendly. Ensure the broth used is vegetable-based for a fully vegetarian option.
How long does the soup last in the refrigerator?
The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze white bean soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well.
Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container, and it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
What can I use instead of white beans?
If you don’t have white beans, you can substitute them with other beans such as cannellini or navy beans.
Conclusion
White bean soup is a delightful and hearty dish that not only warms the soul but also offers a wealth of health benefits. Its creamy texture, combined with the goodness of beans and vegetables, makes it a perfect comfort food for any occasion. Easy to prepare and adaptable, this soup can be customized to suit different tastes and preferences.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Variation
Add a variety of seasonal vegetables such as carrots, spinach, or kale for added nutrition and flavor.
Spicy White Bean Soup
Incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that complements the creamy beans.
Herbed White Bean Soup
Enhance the soup with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil to infuse additional layers of flavor.
White Bean and Sausage Soup
Include sliced sausage for a protein boost and a savory twist, perfect for a heartier meal option.
Lemon Zest Addition
A touch of lemon zest can brighten the flavors and add a refreshing note to the soup.
Creamy Parmesan Finish
Top the soup with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra creamy richness that pairs beautifully with the beans.
Crouton Topping
Serve the soup with homemade croutons for added crunch and texture in every bowl.