This hearty white bean soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Made with tender beans, fresh veggies, and flavorful herbs, it’s both comforting and healthy.
It’s like a cozy sweater for your belly! I love watching it simmer while the scent fills my kitchen—perfect for chilly days or when I need a little pick-me-up.
Making this soup is super easy! Just toss everything in a pot and let it cook. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time to share with family and friends.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Beans: Cannellini or great northern beans are the stars here! Both are creamy and tender. If you’re in a pinch, you can swap them out for navy beans or even chickpeas for a different twist.
Olive Oil: This adds a lovely flavor. If you’re not a fan of olive oil, avocado oil works too. Just avoid oils with strong flavors that could overpower the taste.
Vegetable Broth: A key flavor base! If you’re serving vegetarian guests, make sure your broth is labeled vegetarian. You can also use chicken broth if you’re looking for a richer taste, though it will no longer be vegetarian.
Fresh Herbs: Thyme and rosemary bring lots of flavors. If you don’t have them, you can use Italian seasoning as a substitute. Just remember to adjust the quantity to not overpower your soup.
How Do I Make Sure My Beans Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the beans just right is important for a lovely texture. Here’s how to ensure they’re tender and delicious:
- Soaking: This helps them cook evenly. Soak overnight for at least 8 hours, or use the quick soak method by boiling them for 1-2 minutes, then letting them sit for an hour before cooking.
- Simmering: After adding to the soup, it’s crucial to let them simmer gently. Aim for 1 to 1.5 hours. You want them soft but not mushy, so check a few beans for doneness along the way.
- Texture: If you like creaminess, you can mash some beans or blend part of the soup. This creates a thick and hearty feel without the need for dairy.
How to Make White Bean Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 cups dried white beans (cannellini or great northern), soaked overnight and drained
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Optional: crusty bread slices, for serving
Time Needed:
This recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and then around 1 to 1.5 hours of cooking. So you can have a delicious pot of white bean soup ready in about 1.5 to 2 hours, perfect for cozy meals with family or friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables become tender, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. This will give your soup a lovely base of flavor!
2. Add Garlic:
Now, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 1 minute, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as that can make it taste bitter!
3. Combine Ingredients:
Next, add the soaked and drained white beans to the pot along with the dried thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Pour in the vegetable broth, and give everything a good stir. This is where the magic starts to happen!
4. Cook the Soup:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover partially with a lid and let it simmer. This will take about 1 to 1.5 hours. Stir occasionally and check the beans for tenderness—they should be soft and cooked through!
5. Blend for Creaminess (Optional):
Once the beans are tender, remove the bay leaf. If you like a creamier texture, take a fork or a potato masher and mash some of the beans against the side of the pot. Alternatively, you can blend about one-third of the soup in a blender and then stir it back into the pot.
6. Season to Taste:
Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This step enhances all those lovely flavors we’ve created in the pot!
7. Serve the Soup:
Ladle the warm soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor! It’s ready to enjoy!
8. Pair with Bread:
If you like, serve the soup hot with slices of crusty bread on the side for dipping. It’s the perfect accompaniment!
Enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of hearty white bean soup that’s perfect for cozy meals!
Can I Use Canned Beans Instead of Dried Beans?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can use 2-3 cans of white beans (rinsed and drained) instead of dried beans. Just reduce the cooking time to about 20-30 minutes, as the beans are already cooked.
How Long Does This Soup Last in the Fridge?
Leftover white bean soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Can I Freeze White Bean Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely and then store in airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Can I Serve with White Bean Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a side salad, or even grilled cheese sandwiches. You can also serve it with a sprinkle of cheese or a dollop of pesto for extra flavor!
