The Best White Bean Soup
If you ever thought that beans are boring, this creamy flavor-packed white bean soup will blow your mind! This is a simple, vegan, and budget-friendly recipe that tastes and smells amazing. The best part? It will be on the table in just 25 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, The Best White Bean Soup is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, this soup is a great go-to for last-minute meals.
- Flavorful and Creamy: The combination of white beans, vegetables, and spices creates a rich and comforting taste that warms you up.
- Vegan and Healthy: Packed with nutrients, this soup is not only delicious but also vegan-friendly and gluten-free.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own or pair it with crusty bread or grated cheese for an extra touch.
- Budget-Friendly Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, this recipe won’t break the bank while providing hearty servings.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making The Best White Bean Soup, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: A must-have for cooking soups evenly without splattering.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your pot’s surface.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables easy and safe.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 2 cans (28oz – 800 grams) cannellini beans or white beans, drained
– 1 medium-size onion, diced
– 1 celery stalk, diced
– 1 large carrot, diced
– 1-2 garlic cloves, diced or pressed
– 1 cup (7 oz – 200 grams), frozen spinach (optional)
– 2 medium-size potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
– 1 Tbsp olive oil, plus more for serving
– 1 Tbsp tomato paste
– 1/3 cup (80 ml) white wine
– 1 sprig rosemary (or 1 Tbsp of chopped fresh leaves/1/2 tsp of dried)
– 2 cups (500 ml) vegetable broth or hot water
– 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
– 1/2 tsp fine salt, plus more to taste
– 1/8 tsp black pepper, plus more to taste
How to Make The Best White Bean Soup
Step 1: Warm the Oil
Warm the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook, stirring often, until the onion has softened and is turning translucent, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients
Add the garlic, beans, tomato paste, potatoes, rosemary (whole sprig or chopped), and paprika (if using). Stir frequently for about a minute until well combined.
Step 3: Incorporate Wine
Pour in the white wine. Stir well and let it simmer until it has evaporated completely. This should take about one minute.
Step 4: Add Spinach and Broth
Next, add the frozen spinach along with vegetable broth. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Raise the heat to bring everything to a boil. Cover the pot, reduce heat, and cook gently for about 15 minutes.
Step 5: Final Touches
Once the potatoes are soft and the soup is thickened to your liking, remove from heat. Discard the rosemary sprig. Taste your soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 6: Serve Your Soup
Divide into bowls. Drizzle with olive oil or extra virgin olive oil along with freshly ground black pepper if desired. Pair your soup with crusty whole grain bread or sprinkle some freshly grated parmesan cheese on top if you’re not keeping it vegan. Enjoy!
With these steps completed, you’ll have an impressive pot of The Best White Bean Soup ready for sharing!
How to Serve The Best White Bean Soup
Serving The Best White Bean Soup is a delightful experience. This creamy dish can be enjoyed in various ways, enhancing its flavors and making it a satisfying meal.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- A slice of rustic whole grain bread is perfect for dipping into the soup. It adds texture and complements the creamy beans.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped parsley or basil adds a fresh touch to each bowl. Sprinkle some on top before serving for added color and flavor.
Add a Drizzle of Olive Oil
- A light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil on top enhances the richness of the soup. It also adds a fruity note.
Serve with Grated Cheese
- For non-vegan options, freshly grated parmesan cheese provides a salty, umami kick that pairs well with the white bean flavors.
Accompany with a Side Salad
- A light green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette balances the meal. The acidity cuts through the creaminess of the soup beautifully.
Enjoy with a Glass of Wine
- Pairing this soup with a glass of white wine enhances its flavors. Choose a light, crisp wine to complement the dish.
How to Perfect The Best White Bean Soup
To make The Best White Bean Soup even better, consider these helpful tips for an elevated taste.
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Use fresh herbs: Fresh rosemary or thyme can add depth to your soup’s flavor. Dried herbs are fine but fresh ones bring vibrant taste.
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Adjust seasoning: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for maximum flavor.
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Blend for creaminess: For an ultra-creamy texture, blend half of the soup and mix it back in. This creates a delightful contrast between smooth and chunky bits.
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Experiment with spices: Adding spices like cumin or paprika can bring warmth to the flavor profile. Be cautious not to overpower the dish.
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Use quality broth: The broth significantly impacts flavor; choose vegetable broth that you enjoy or make your own for better results.
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Garnish creatively: Instead of just olive oil, try topping each bowl with toasted nuts or seeds for an added crunch and nutrition boost.
Best Side Dishes for The Best White Bean Soup
Pairing side dishes with The Best White Bean Soup can enhance your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider:
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Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for soaking up every bit of delicious soup.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized add sweetness and texture alongside the creamy soup.
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Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad brings a nutty flavor and pairs well with the richness of the beans.
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Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains and veggies offer a hearty addition to your meal.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide contrasting flavors that complement the soup nicely.
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Vegetable Spring Rolls: Light and crisp spring rolls filled with fresh veggies add an enjoyable crunch.
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Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a comforting side that pairs well with any soup.
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Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with creamy soups like this one.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making The Best White Bean Soup can be simple, but avoid these common mistakes for optimal results.
- Using stale beans: Ensure your beans are fresh for the best flavor and texture. Check expiration dates or use canned beans that are within their shelf life.
- Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to season properly! Start with a pinch of salt and pepper, and adjust as needed. This enhances the soup’s flavor significantly.
- Overcooking vegetables: Be cautious not to overcook your vegetables. Aim for a tender yet firm texture to maintain their nutrients and taste.
- Neglecting texture: For a creamier soup, blend a portion of the mixture. This adds a delightful creaminess without using dairy products.
- Not tasting before serving: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust seasonings based on your preferences for the best flavor profile.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Will keep well for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing The Best White Bean Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating The Best White Bean Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about The Best White Bean Soup that will help you get the most out of this recipe.
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes! If using dried beans, soak them overnight and cook until tender before adding them to the soup.
What if I don’t have white wine?
You can substitute white wine with additional vegetable broth or apple cider vinegar for acidity without losing flavor.
How can I make this soup spicy?
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during cooking to give your soup an extra kick.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
How can I customize my white bean soup?
Feel free to add other veggies like kale or zucchini, or spices such as thyme or cumin for different flavors.
Final Thoughts
This creamy The Best White Bean Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Perfect for chilly nights, it’s a comforting dish that everyone will love. Try it today!
The Best White Bean Soup
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
Description
Experience a culinary delight with The Best White Bean Soup, a creamy and flavor-packed dish that transforms the humble bean into a comforting meal. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this vegan and budget-friendly recipe, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Each spoonful is rich with the goodness of white beans, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices, creating a dish that warms the soul. Enjoy it on its own or elevate your serving by pairing it with crusty bread or garnishing it with fresh herbs. This recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your body with its wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (28oz) cannellini beans
- 1 medium onion
- 1 celery stalk
- 1 large carrot
- 1–2 garlic cloves
- 1 cup frozen spinach (optional)
- 2 medium potatoes
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 Tbsp tomato paste
- 1/3 cup white wine
- 2 cups vegetable broth
Instructions
- Warm olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrot, and celery; cook until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in garlic, beans, tomato paste, potatoes, rosemary, and paprika; cook for 1 minute.
- Add white wine; let simmer until evaporated (about 1 minute).
- Incorporate spinach and vegetable broth; season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat, and simmer for about 15 minutes.
- Once potatoes are tender, discard rosemary sprig. Adjust seasoning as desired.
- Serve hot with a drizzle of olive oil or grated cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
