This comforting white bean soup is a cozy hug in a bowl! Made with creamy white beans, fresh veggies, and tasty herbs, it’s perfect for chilly days.
Plus, it’s super easy to whip up! I love serving it with warm bread on the side. You’ll want to savor every last drop! 🥖😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This brings healthy fats and flavor to the soup. If you prefer, avocado oil or even butter works, but olive oil has that nice Mediterranean touch.
Onion: A medium onion adds depth to the flavor. If you’re in a pinch, shallots or leeks can be great alternatives.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for aroma and taste. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can substitute—just use a little less.
Carrots: Carrots add sweetness and texture. Sweet bell peppers or diced celery could also work well here as substitutes.
White Beans: Cannellini or navy beans are ideal for creaminess. If you have other beans like great northern or even chickpeas, they can work too!
Vegetable Broth: This enriches the flavor. Feel free to use chicken broth for a heartier taste or water if you’re low on broth.
Fresh Thyme: Fresh thyme is lovely, but if you don’t have any, dried thyme will do just fine, just use a smaller amount.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor in My Soup?
Building flavor in your soup is all about layering your ingredients and seasonings. Start by sautéing your onions and garlic in olive oil, as this creates a base of flavor. Make sure to cook them until they’re soft!
- After adding carrots, give them a little time to soften before adding the beans and broth.
- Don’t rush the simmering time! Let the soup simmer for at least 25-30 minutes for flavors to blend.
- For a bit more depth, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving for brightness.
- Always taste as you go and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your preference!
How to Make Creamy White Bean Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 4 cups cooked white beans (such as cannellini or navy beans), drained and rinsed if canned
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 cup water
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced (optional)
- For the Garnish:
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious white bean soup will take you about 10 minutes to prep, and then let it simmer for 25-30 minutes. So, set aside about 40 minutes in total for cooking and enjoying this warm bowl of goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start by Sautéing the Base:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes.
2. Add More Veggies:
Next, it’s time for the garlic and diced carrots! Add them to the pot and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the carrots start to soften a bit.
3. Stir in the Beans and Broth:
Now, stir in the cooked white beans, vegetable broth, water, bay leaf, and thyme. If you’re using diced tomatoes, toss them in at this point too. Mix everything well and bring it all to a boil!
4. Let It Simmer:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes. This allows all the flavors to blend beautifully, and the carrots to become tender!
5. Blend for Creaminess:
After simmering, remove the bay leaf and check your soup. If you like it creamier, you can partially blend about half of the soup using an immersion blender or transfer half to a blender, blend until smooth, then mix it back into the pot.
6. Season and Serve:
Give your soup a taste and add salt and black pepper as needed to season. Once flavored to your liking, ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley.
7. Enjoy with Bread:
Serve your white bean soup hot, alongside some crusty bread. Perfect for dipping and wiping the bowl clean!
Enjoy this hearty, warming white bean soup that’s perfect for any time of the year! 🍲✨
Can I Use Dried Beans Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If using dried beans, soak them overnight and cook them in the broth until tender before adding them to the soup. This usually takes about 1-2 hours depending on the type of bean.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
Feel free to swap out olive oil for other cooking oils, such as avocado oil or coconut oil. Butter can also be used for a richer flavor!
How to Make This Recipe Vegetarian or Vegan?
This recipe is already vegetarian as it uses vegetable broth. To keep it vegan, just ensure any garnishes or bread served alongside are free of animal products.
Can I Freeze the Leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze this white bean soup! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer into airtight containers. It should keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove.