White Bean Soup

White Bean Soup

White Bean Soup is a warm and comforting dish that is perfect for chilly days. This hearty soup combines creamy white beans with fresh vegetables and smoky bacon for a flavor that satisfies. It’s easy to make and full of nutrition, making it a great choice for lunch or dinner.

Why Make This Recipe

Making White Bean Soup is a great way to enjoy a healthy and filling meal. The ingredients are simple, and the soup is packed with protein from the white beans and flavor from the bacon and vegetables. It’s also a great way to use dried beans, which are budget-friendly and have a long shelf life. Moreover, this recipe allows you to control the seasoning and ingredients to suit your taste.

How to Make White Bean Soup

Ingredients:

• 300 g dried white beans (soaked overnight)
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 leek, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 150 g smoked bacon, cubed
• 1 liter vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 tbsp butter or oil
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions:

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and sliced leek. Sauté until they are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the soaked beans and the cubed bacon, mixing everything well.
4. Pour in the broth and add the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Once boiling, cover the pot and reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 60 to 90 minutes, or until the beans are soft. Add more water if needed.
6. After the beans are cooked, remove the bay leaf. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

How to Serve White Bean Soup

White Bean Soup is best served warm. You can enjoy it on its own or with crusty bread for dipping. It also makes a great side dish for a main meal. You can pair it with a simple green salad to round out your meal.

How to Store White Bean Soup

To store White Bean Soup, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to allow it to cool down before freezing.

Tips to Make White Bean Soup

• Make sure to soak the beans overnight for the best texture. This helps them cook evenly.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like celery or potatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
• If you like a thicker soup, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender and then return it to the pot.
• You can also add herbs such as thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch.

Variation

If you want a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth. You can also add more vegetables or spices to create your own unique twist on the classic White Bean Soup.

FAQs

Q: Can I use canned white beans instead of dried beans?
A: Yes, you can use canned white beans. If using canned beans, skip the soaking and reduce the cooking time since they are already cooked. Add them during the last 15-20 minutes of simmering.

Q: How do I make the soup spicier?
A: You can add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during the cooking process for a spicy kick. Adjust to your preferred heat level.

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! White Bean Soup tastes even better when made ahead. Just refrigerate or freeze it as mentioned before, and reheat when you are ready to enjoy.