Cozy White Bean Soup Recipe
If you are seeking a heartwarming meal to lift your spirits on a chilly day, this Cozy White Bean Soup is just the perfect bowl of comfort. Creamy white beans meld with fragrant herbs and tender vegetables to create a soup that feels like a warm hug from the inside. It’s a simple recipe packed with flavor, texture, and a splash of good cheer, making every spoonful irresistibly satisfying and nourishing. Whether you’re craving an easy weeknight dinner or something soothing after a long day, this Cozy White Bean Soup brings the taste of home in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each one shines in the final dish, combining to create wonderful layers of flavor and heartiness. The beauty of this Cozy White Bean Soup lies in how these basic pantry staples come together to deliver rich taste and a lovely texture.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Adds a silky base that gently sautés the veggies to bring out their sweet notes.
- 2 400g tins white beans, drained: The creamy star ingredient, they provide the soup’s smooth body and protein.
- 1 white onion, diced: Builds a savory foundation with its mild, sweet flavor once softened.
- 1 carrot, sliced: Introduces a natural sweetness and pleasant texture contrast.
- 1 celery stick, diced: Adds a subtle aromatic crunch that complements the other vegetables.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Imparts a fragrant, pungent depth to awaken the palate.
- 1 bay leaf: Infuses subtle earthiness and warmth throughout the cooking process.
- 1 tbsp tomato paste: Brings concentrated umami and a gentle, rich tang.
- 80ml white wine: Injects brightness and a slight acidity to lift the entire soup.
- 500ml vegetable stock: Creates the flavorful liquid body that ties all ingredients together.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the soup’s fragrant herbaceous notes.
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary, diced: Offers piney, aromatic sharpness, adding complexity.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Adds a warm, peppery herbal tone.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
- Pinch of red pepper flakes: Provides a subtle kick to awaken the senses.
- Kale, chopped: Introduces earthiness and a vibrant green pop along with nutritious boost.
- 1/2 lemon, juice: Brightens the soup with a fresh, zesty lift just before serving.
- 20g Pecorino cheese: A salty, nutty grating that adds a delightful finishing touch.
How to Make Cozy White Bean Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatic Vegetables
Start by warming the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Stir these gently as they cook for about 7 to 9 minutes until they soften and their natural sweetness starts to bloom. Avoid browning by adding a splash of water if things begin sticking. This base layer is where your flavor journey begins, filling the kitchen with an inviting aroma.
Step 2: Add Garlic, Tomato Paste, and Seasonings
Once your veggies are tender, toss in the minced garlic, tomato paste, and the Italian seasoning, rosemary, oregano, and the bay leaf. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. This step amplifies complexity, melding the savory and herbaceous notes into a mouthwatering blend that promises a soul-soothing soup.
Step 3: Deglaze with White Wine
Pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any caramelized bits stuck to the bottom. Allow it to reduce for a few minutes. The wine’s acidity brightens the dish, balancing the richness of the beans and vegetables.
Step 4: Pour in Stock and White Beans
Next, add the vegetable stock along with your drained white beans. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is the moment when the soup starts to come together, transforming into a comforting bowl with depth in every spoonful.
Step 5: Blend for Creamy Texture
Using a hand blender, purée about one third of the soup directly in the pot for a luscious, creamy consistency. Feel free to blend more if you prefer a smoother texture. Then, leave it to simmer for 5 to 8 minutes as it thickens slightly and the flavors deepen, creating that signature warmth of our Cozy White Bean Soup.
Step 6: Stir in Kale and Final Seasoning
Lastly, toss in the chopped kale, allowing it to wilt into the piping hot soup. Adjust the salt, pepper, and maybe a pinch of red pepper flakes to your liking. Once everything is perfectly balanced, remove the pan from the heat and prepare to plate this bowl of comfort.
How to Serve Cozy White Bean Soup
Garnishes
Serving this Cozy White Bean Soup with freshly grated Pecorino cheese on top adds delightful saltiness and nuttiness. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens every spoonful, cutting through the richness. A little extra virgin olive oil drizzled just before serving enhances the luxurious mouthfeel. For an added kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes to enliven the palette.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or warm garlic rolls, perfect for dipping into the creamy broth. A crisp green salad or simple roasted vegetables complement the hearty nature of the soup without overpowering it. Together, they make a balanced and satisfying meal ideal for any cozy occasion.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Cozy White Bean Soup in warm bread bowls for a rustic experience your guests will love. You can also layer the soup with toasted nuts or seeds for an unexpected crunch. Garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme adds a lovely pop of color and fresh aroma that’s just as inviting as the taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Cozy White Bean Soup can be cooled completely and transferred into airtight containers. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making the second serving just as delightful as the first.
Freezing
This soup freezes wonderfully, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Place cooled soup in freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When thawed, the texture and flavor hold up nicely, ready to comfort you whenever you need.
Reheating
Reheat your Cozy White Bean Soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If it seems too thick, add a splash of vegetable stock or water to loosen. Avoid high heat to preserve the integrity of the beans and kale, ensuring every bite stays creamy and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use dried beans instead of canned beans?
Yes, you can absolutely use dried white beans. Just remember to soak them overnight and cook them fully before adding to the soup. Using canned beans is a great shortcut, but dried beans offer a slightly firmer texture and can deepen the soup’s flavor.
Is there a way to make this soup vegan?
Definitely! Simply omit the Pecorino cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese or nutritional yeast. The soup’s base is vegetable stock-based and naturally vegan-friendly.
Can I make this soup spicy?
Absolutely, the pinch of red pepper flakes gives a subtle heat, but you can increase the amount or add some chopped fresh chili to the sautéed vegetables if you want a bolder spicy kick.
What can I substitute if I don’t have kale?
You can swap kale for other leafy greens such as spinach, Swiss chard, or collard greens. They’ll wilt nicely and add a similar earthy quality without changing the soup’s heartiness.
How long does it take to make Cozy White Bean Soup?
This soup can be ready in about 30 to 40 minutes, making it a fantastic quick yet comforting meal option. The hands-on time is brief, with the soup mostly simmering as the flavors develop.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats a steaming bowl of Cozy White Bean Soup when you want to feel wrapped in warmth and nurturing flavors. With its vibrant herbs, creamy beans, and tender vegetables, this recipe is a must-try for anyone longing for comfort food that’s easy to make yet endlessly satisfying. So go ahead, bring this delicious soup into your kitchen and share the joy it will surely bring.
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Cozy White Bean Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cozy White Bean Soup is a warm, hearty, and nutritious meal perfect for chilly days. This comforting soup features creamy white beans blended to a smooth texture, combined with aromatic vegetables, fresh herbs, and a touch of tangy lemon and savory Pecorino cheese. It’s an easy-to-make vegetarian recipe that brings together simple ingredients with rich flavors for a satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 white onion, diced
- 1 carrot, sliced
- 1 celery stick, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 sprig of fresh rosemary, diced
Pantry Items
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 400g tins white beans, drained
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 80ml white wine
- 500ml vegetable stock
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes
Greens and Finishing Touches
- Kale, chopped (about 100g)
- 1/2 lemon, juice
- 20g Pecorino cheese, grated
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrot, and diced celery. Sauté for 7 to 9 minutes, stirring often, until the vegetables begin to soften. If the vegetables start to stick to the pan, add a splash of water to prevent burning.
- Add Garlic and Seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, bay leaf, Italian seasoning, dried oregano, and fresh rosemary. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes to release the aromas and blend the flavors.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom. Let the wine simmer and reduce for about 3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate and flavors to concentrate.
- Add Stock and Beans: Pour in the vegetable stock and add the drained white beans. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Blend Soup: Use a hand blender to blend approximately one-third to half of the soup in the pan, depending on your desired soup texture. You can blend more for a creamier consistency. Leave the soup to simmer for another 5 to 8 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Add Kale and Season: Stir in the chopped kale and cook just until it wilts, about 2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes as desired. Remove the pan from the heat.
- Finish and Serve: Pour the soup into bowls and drizzle with fresh lemon juice. Top each serving with grated Pecorino cheese and an optional extra drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Serve hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- For a vegan version, omit the Pecorino cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- You can adjust the thickness of the soup by blending more or less of the mixture.
- White wine can be substituted with an equal amount of additional vegetable stock if preferred.
- Add more kale or other leafy greens like spinach for extra nutrients.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days or can be frozen for up to 1 month.
- To intensify the flavor, consider roasting the vegetables beforehand before adding the liquids.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Sautéing and Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 350g)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 10 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 8 mg
Keywords: white bean soup, cozy soup, vegetarian soup, Italian soup, easy soup recipe, healthy winter soup, kale soup, homemade soup
