Cozy White Bean Soup

A warm, comforting bowl of Cozy White Bean Soup is just what you need for chilly days. This hearty soup is packed with flavor and nutrition, making it the perfect dish for gatherings, family dinners, or a cozy night in. With its creamy texture and delightful mix of ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This soup comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights.
• Nourishing and filling: Packed with white beans and vegetables, this soup offers a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out.
• Versatile: Customize your soup with different greens or spices to suit your taste preferences.
• Perfect for leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.
• Fiber-rich: White beans are a great source of fiber, which supports digestive health and keeps you feeling full longer.

Tools and Preparation

Creating your Cozy White Bean Soup requires some essential tools to ensure everything runs smoothly in the kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pan
• Hand blender
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pan: A good-sized pan allows all ingredients to cook evenly without overcrowding.
• Hand blender: This tool helps achieve the desired creaminess without transferring hot soup to a blender.
• Cutting board & knife: Essential for prepping your vegetables safely and efficiently.

Ingredients

A delicious and hearty white bean soup that’s perfect for cozy, colder weather. This delicious soup comes together in under 30 minutes and is perfect served with a side of crusty sourdough bread.

For the Soup Base:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 400g tins white beans, drained
• 1 white onion, diced
• 1 carrot, sliced
• 1 celery stick, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tbsp tomato paste

For Flavor:

• 80ml white grape juice
• 500ml vegetable stock
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 sprig of fresh rosemary, diced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Finishing Touches:

• Pinch of red pepper flakes
• 1 cup kale, chopped
• 1/2 lemon, juice
• 20g Pecorino cheese

How to Make Cozy White Bean Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrot, and diced celery. Sauté for about 7-9 minutes until they begin to soften. If necessary, add a splash of water to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, rosemary, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pan

Pour in the white grape juice to deglaze the pan. Allow it to cook down for a few minutes before adding in the vegetable stock and drained white beans.

Step 4: Blend Partially

Using a hand blender, blend about one-third of the soup until it’s creamy (blend more if you prefer a smoother texture). Let it simmer for an additional 5-8 minutes until thickened.

Step 5: Stir in Kale

Mix in the chopped kale. Season again if needed before removing from heat.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle into bowls and top each serving with grated Pecorino cheese, a squeeze of lemon juice, extra red pepper flakes if desired, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

Enjoy your delightful bowl of Cozy White Bean Soup, perfect for sharing or savoring by yourself!

How to Serve Cozy White Bean Soup

Cozy White Bean Soup is a warming dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Pairing this hearty soup with the right accompaniments enhances its flavors and makes for a delightful meal experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked sourdough or whole grain bread adds texture and helps soak up the delicious broth.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives on top for an aromatic finish that brightens the dish.

Accompanied by Salad

• A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup, adding freshness.

Served with Cheese

• Grated Pecorino or Parmesan cheese adds a salty, creamy element that pairs beautifully with the beans.

With Extra Virgin Olive Oil Drizzle

• A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor and adds a luxurious touch to every bowl.

As Part of a Cozy Meal

• Serve alongside roasted vegetables or a hearty grain like quinoa for a filling, balanced dinner.

How to Perfect Cozy White Bean Soup

To make your Cozy White Bean Soup even better, consider these helpful tips. Each small adjustment can lead to a more flavorful and satisfying dish.

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and good-quality olive oil can significantly enhance the soup’s overall flavor.
• Adjust Consistency: Blend more or less of the soup depending on your preferred texture; leaving some beans whole will add heartiness.
• Experiment with Spices: Add different spices like smoked paprika or cumin for a unique twist on the traditional flavor profile.
• Incorporate Seasonal Vegetables: For added nutrition and flavor, toss in seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers while cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Cozy White Bean Soup

Enjoying Cozy White Bean Soup is even better when paired with delicious side dishes. Here are some fantastic options to accompany your meal:

1. Garlic Bread
   Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the soup’s savory broth.

2. Roasted Root Vegetables
   Carrots, potatoes, and parsnips roasted until golden provide sweetness and texture contrast.

3. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad mixed with lemon juice and seasonal veggies offers a refreshing side that complements the soup.

4. Herbed Rice
   Fluffy rice seasoned with fresh herbs pairs nicely, soaking up flavors from the soup.

5. Stuffed Peppers
   Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and beans create a hearty side that echoes the soup’s ingredients.

6. Cheesy Polenta
   Creamy polenta topped with cheese provides a comforting, rich side that balances out the meal.

7. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
   Classic grilled cheese adds crunch and gooeyness, making it an appealing match for warm soup.

8. Crispy Kale Chips
   Lightly seasoned kale chips offer an unexpected crunch that contrasts well with the soft beans in the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious cozy white bean soup can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold seasoning: Forgetting to season your soup adequately can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust the seasoning as you go.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Aim for them to be soft yet still hold their shape.
• Neglecting blending: Skipping the blending step can result in a less creamy texture. Blend part of the soup for a smooth consistency.
• Ignoring storage tips: Not storing your soup properly can affect its taste and texture. Use airtight containers for best results.
• Rushing the simmering time: Not allowing enough time for the soup to simmer can prevent flavors from developing fully. Give it at least 5 minutes.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cozy White Bean Soup

• Allow soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.
• Good for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Cozy White Bean Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Cozy White Bean Soup hearty?

The combination of white beans, vegetables, and herbs creates a filling meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

Can I customize the Cozy White Bean Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different vegetables or spices according to your taste preferences.

How do I store leftovers of Cozy White Bean Soup?

Leftovers should be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for longer storage.

Is this Cozy White Bean Soup vegan-friendly?

Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products and uses vegetable stock instead.

Final Thoughts

This cozy white bean soup is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for chilly days. Its comforting flavors and flexibility allow you to tailor it to your liking. Don’t hesitate to try different greens or spices based on what you have at home!