The Best White Bean Soup

If you ever thought that beans are boring, this creamy flavor-packed white bean soup will blow your mind! The Best White Bean Soup is a simple, vegan, and budget-friendly recipe that tastes and smells amazing. Added bonus? It will be on the table in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just 25 minutes, allowing you to whip it up even on the busiest days.
• Flavorful and Creamy: The combination of cannellini beans and fresh vegetables delivers a rich texture and mouthwatering taste.
• Vegan-Friendly: Completely plant-based, this soup is a great option for vegans and vegetarians without sacrificing flavor.
• Budget-Friendly: Using pantry staples like beans and vegetables makes this recipe kind to your wallet.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main course with crusty bread or as a side dish with your favorite protein.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare The Best White Bean Soup, you’ll need some essential tools to make the cooking process smooth and easy.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A spacious pot helps cook all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: These tools are perfect for stirring without scratching your pot.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for efficient chopping.

Ingredients

Ingredients for The Best White Bean Soup:

• 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: Sauté the Vegetables

Warm the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook while stirring often until the onion softens and turns translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients

Add the garlic, beans, tomato paste, potatoes, rosemary (whole sprig or chopped), and paprika if you’re using it. Cook while stirring frequently for about one minute until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Deglaze with Wine

Pour in the white wine. Stir well and let it simmer until most of the wine evaporates, which should take about one minute.

Step 4: Combine Broth and Spinach

Add the frozen spinach along with vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper. Raise the heat to bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, cover the pot, reduce heat, and let it cook gently for about 15 minutes.

Step 5: Final Touches

When the potatoes are soft and the soup has thickened into a creamy consistency, remove from heat. Discard the rosemary sprig. Taste your soup and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve

Divide into bowls. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and top with freshly ground black pepper if desired. Serve alongside crusty whole grain bread or sprinkle grated parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor if you’re not keeping it vegan. Enjoy!

How to Serve The Best White Bean Soup

Serving The Best White Bean Soup is an opportunity to enhance its delightful flavors. Here are some delicious suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Crusty Bread

• A hearty loaf of whole grain or sourdough bread pairs perfectly. Use it to soak up the creamy soup.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your soup with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a burst of color and flavor.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil right before serving adds richness and depth.

With Grated Cheese

• If you’re not keeping it vegan, freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese can add a savory touch.

Served with a Side Salad

• A simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup beautifully.

Accompanied by Pickles

• Add a side of tangy pickles or olives for an exciting contrast to the soup’s creaminess.

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How to Perfect The Best White Bean Soup

To ensure your Best White Bean Soup reaches new heights, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality broth will make a significant difference in flavor.
• Adjust seasoning: Always taste and adjust salt, pepper, and other seasonings according to your preference.
• Blend for creaminess: For an extra creamy texture, blend a portion of the soup and mix it back in.
• Experiment with spices: Add spices like cumin or smoked paprika for unique flavor profiles.
• Let it sit: Allowing the soup to rest for a few minutes after cooking can help meld the flavors together.
• Store properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Best Side Dishes for The Best White Bean Soup

Pairing sides with your Best White Bean Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some tasty options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread provides a crunchy texture that complements the soup’s creaminess.
2. Caesar Salad: This classic salad adds crunch and tang, balancing the richness of the soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring added nutrients and flavor, making them a great companion.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers filled with grains or quinoa make for a hearty side dish.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing adds freshness and protein.
6. Coleslaw: Crisp coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that pairs beautifully with warm soup.
7. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can elevate your meal, adding variety in flavors and textures.
8. Baked Potatoes: Simple baked potatoes provide comforting starchiness to round out your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making The Best White Bean Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the outcome. Here are common pitfalls to avoid for a rich and delightful soup.

• Not soaking the beans properly: If using dried beans instead of canned, make sure to soak them overnight. This helps reduce cooking time and enhances flavor.
• Overcooking the vegetables: When sautéing, keep an eye on your vegetables. Overcooking can lead to mushy textures; aim for soft yet firm veggies.
• Skipping the seasoning: Salt is essential for enhancing flavors. Always taste your soup as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly for the best results.
• Ignoring the thickness: If your soup is too thick, add more broth or water gradually until you reach your desired consistency. A perfect soup should be creamy but not paste-like.
• Using low-quality broth: A good vegetable broth can elevate your soup. Choose high-quality stock or homemade broth for maximum flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The Best White Bean Soup lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing The Best White Bean Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It 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, covered, for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot, usually about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making The Best White Bean Soup, you’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked questions.

Can I use other types of beans?

Yes! While cannellini beans are recommended, you can substitute with navy beans or great northern beans for a similar texture.

How do I make The Best White Bean Soup creamier?

To enhance creaminess, blend half of the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender before serving.

Is The Best White Bean Soup gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it contains no wheat products.

Can I add meat to this white bean soup?

Certainly! Adding diced chicken or sausage can provide extra flavor and protein if you prefer a non-vegan version.

How long does it take to make The Best White Bean Soup?

This delicious soup can be made in just 25 minutes from start to finish!

Final Thoughts

The Best White Bean Soup is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or proteins based on your preference. Perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep, this recipe promises comfort in every bowl. Give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!