Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup

Craving a comforting bean soup recipe? This Tuscan White Bean Soup, inspired by Ribollita, is packed with flavour and veggie goodness. Perfect for a chilly evening! Get the recipe.

Alright, let's dive into something seriously cozy. ever have one of those days where all you crave is a big, warm hug in a bowl? well, this bean soup recipe is exactly that.

Seriously.

Hearty Comfort: Tuscan White Bean Soup

This tuscan white bean soup , kinda like a cousin to the famous ribollita, is packed with goodness. it's based on traditional tuscan white bean dishes.

Think creamy cannellini beans (also known as white beans ), hearty veggies, and a flavor profile that just screams comfort.

It's more than just a bean soup recipe it is a trip to italy.

From Tuscany With Love (and Beans!)

This isn't just some random soup. it's inspired by ribollita, an old-school tuscan dish. it was originally made to reuse leftover bread and veggies.

It’s peasant food, but elevated, you know? our version is easy to make at home. the hearty white bean soup takes about an hour and a half, mostly simmering.

This bean soup recipe yields about 6 servings.

Why You'll Love This Soup

Honestly, this isn't just tasty. it's packed with fiber and protein thanks to those mighty beans. it makes this vegetarian soup recipe a real winner! this bean soup recipe is ideal for soup season .

Plus, it's the perfect excuse to dip crusty bread into something delicious. i love making a batch on sunday for easy veggie meals during the week.

Ready to get started? Let's gather those ingredients!

Ingredients For a Soul-Soothing Bean Soup

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
• 1 large onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
• 2 carrots, chopped (about 1 cup)
• 2 celery stalks, chopped (about 1 cup)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
• 8 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarians) (approximately 1.9 liters)
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained (approximately 411g)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 pound dried cannellini beans, soaked overnight or 2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained (approximately 450g dried / 850g canned)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 4 cups chopped kale or spinach (packed)
• Crusty bread, for serving
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling

Equipments

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef's knife
• Ladle

Alright, let's dive into what you'll need to make this amazing bean soup recipe . this tuscan white bean soup is super forgiving, so don't stress too much! we're aiming for delicious, not perfection.

Ingredients & Equipment Deconstructed

Let's break down what you need to gather before you start. it's all pretty basic stuff. you probably have most of it already! honestly, that's part of the appeal with these vegetarian soup recipes – simple and satisfying.

Main Ingredients

• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30 ml). Good quality olive oil adds flavour.
• Onion: 1 large , chopped (about 1 cup). Yellow or white onion works.
• Carrots: 2 medium , chopped (about 1 cup). Use those slightly sad ones in the crisper!
• Celery: 2 stalks , chopped (about 1 cup). Adds a subtle savory note.
• Garlic: 4 cloves , minced. Fresh is best, but the jarred stuff works in a pinch.
• Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon .
• Dried Thyme: ½ teaspoon .
• Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch, if you want a little heat. I sometimes add a bit more, honestly.
• Vegetable Broth: 8 cups (approximately 1.9 liters). Low sodium is best. Chicken broth is fine if you aren't making vegan soups .
• Diced Tomatoes: 1 (14.5 ounce) can , undrained (approximately 411g). Whole peeled tomatoes, crushed are fine.
• Bay Leaves: 2 . Don't forget to take them out before serving!
• Cannellini Beans: 1 pound dried, soaked overnight OR 2 (15-ounce) cans , rinsed and drained (approximately 450g dried / 850g canned). If using dried beans, make sure they're not ancient!
• Kale or Spinach: 4 cups chopped (packed). Spinach wilts down a lot.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.

Seasoning Notes

This bean soup recipe loves herbs! oregano and thyme are essential. a pinch of red pepper flakes adds warmth. if you don't have oregano, marjoram or italian seasoning work.

For a richer flavour, add a parmesan rind while simmering. trust me! it's a total game-changer.

Equipment Needed

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: A heavy pot helps distribute heat evenly.
• Cutting Board: Obvious, right?
• Chef's Knife: For chopping veggies. A dull knife is a hazard!
• Ladle: For serving your delicious Tuscan White Bean concoction.

Don’t have a dutch oven? no sweat. a large, heavy-bottomed pot will do the trick for this tasty vegetarian recipes .

If you're missing a ladle, a big spoon works just fine. this white bean soup is all about being adaptable.

Now that soup season is here, you'll be wanting to make this all the time! this makes the best veggie meals ever.

Okay, here's that blog section, all chatty and personal, just like we talked about.

Cooking Method: Let's Get This Bean Soup Recipe Going!

Alright, let's dive into how to make this crazy delicious tuscan white bean soup . honestly, this is one of my go-to veggie meals , especially when it's cold.

And you know what's awesome? it is also a great bean soup recipe to eat.

Prep Like a Pro (or at Least Look Like One)

First, the mise en place , fancy french for getting your stuff together. chop 1 large onion , 2 carrots , and 2 celery stalks .

Mince 4 cloves of garlic . measure out 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and ½ teaspoon of dried thyme . got some red pepper flakes? throw in a pinch for a kick.

Time-saving tip: chop everything while the kettle boils for the tea. Trust me, it helps.

Safety: Don't cut yourself. You know? Dull knives are dangerous. Keep those knives sharp, folks!

Step-by-Step: From Zero to Tuscan White Bean Soup Hero

1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a big pot. Medium heat is your friend. Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery for 8- 10 minutes , until soft.
2. Stir in that minced garlic, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another minute – it should smell amazing!.
3. Pour in 8 cups of vegetable broth . Add 1 (14.5 ounce) can of diced tomatoes . Toss in 2 bay leaves . Bring it all to a simmer.
4. Now, the beans! If using dried ( 1 pound soaked overnight), drain 'em and add 'em. Simmer for 1 to 1 ½ hours , covered, until tender. Canned ( 2 (15-ounce) cans , rinsed and drained)? Add 'em now and simmer for 30 minutes .
5. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer, partially covered, for 30 minutes to 1 hour , stirring now and then.
6. Stir in 4 cups of chopped kale or spinach . Cook until wilted, like 5 minutes .
7. Remove the bay leaves, no one wants to eat that! Ladle into bowls.
8. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. Maybe some grated Parmesan cheese? Serve with crusty bread. This easy white White Bean Soup is like Tuscan White Bean Soup magic.

Pro Tips: Tasty Vegetarian Recipes Secrets!

Honestly? Don't skip the aromatics. Sautéing the veggies is key to the flavour.

Common mistake? Under-seasoning! Taste and adjust as you go. Salt is your friend.

Make-ahead option: this vegetarian soup recipes is even better the next day. flavours meld, you know? perfect for soup season .

These vegan soups are also a very good addition for your recipe book.

One random thing: My grandma always said a good soup is like a hug from the inside. I kind of get it now. Enjoy this delicious, rich bean soup recipe !

Okay, here we go! let's chat about this amazing bean soup recipe ! i'm so stoked to share this tuscan white bean soup recipe with you.

Seriously, it's a lifesaver on those cold nights, you know? think of it as a big hug in a bowl.

Recipe Notes: Making this Bean Soup Recipe Your Own

Honestly, this white bean soup is pretty foolproof. but hey, a few pointers never hurt anyone, right? these are things i’ve learned over the years.

Some are essential tips to make your cooking experience better. other are notes i have on variations and alternatives, so that you feel completely comfortable changing things up.

Plating & Pairing Ideas for your Tuscan White Bean Soup

Presentation matters, even for veggie meals ! for me, it's all about rustic charm. ladle the tuscan white bean bean soup recipe into a cute bowl.

Then, a drizzle of olive oil is key . top it off with a sprinkle of parmesan if you're feeling fancy.

Serving it with some crusty bread is a must. a grilled cheese sandwich or a simple side salad rounds it out perfectly.

Oh, and a glass of chianti? don't mind if i do!

Storing Your Tuscan White Bean Soup Like a Pro

Got leftovers? score! this bean soup recipe is even better the next day. let it cool completely before popping it in an airtight container.

It'll keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. for longer storage, this tuscan white bean soup freezes beautifully.

Just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove. easy peasy!

Soup Season Tweaks: Adaptations Galore

Want to mix things up? go for it! for a vegan version, just skip the parmesan cheese. and make sure you are using vegetable broth.

Need gluten-free? just ensure your bread is gluten-free. during the colder months, i sometimes add roasted butternut squash for extra heartiness.

In the summer, fresh basil is a total game-changer. make sure you try these tasty vegetarian recipes !

Nutrition Tidbits: Fueling Your Body Right

Okay, let's talk numbers (roughly!). each serving of this bean soup recipe packs about 350 calories. you're getting a good dose of protein (18g) and a whopping 15g of fiber! hello, happy gut! plus, all those veggies are loaded with vitamins and antioxidants.

This bean soup recipe is a win-win for your taste buds and your health. these vegetarian soup recipes are also veggie meals !

This bean soup recipe is the perfect introduction to the Vegan Soups world!

Honestly, this bean soup recipe is so adaptable. don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own! remember, cooking should be fun.

So, crank up the tunes, pour yourself a glass of wine, and get cooking! i can't wait to see what you create.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I really have to soak the beans if I'm making this bean soup recipe?

Alright, mate, listen up! Soaking dried beans overnight (or using the quick-soak method) really does make a difference. It cuts down on cooking time and helps to remove some of those pesky compounds that can cause, shall we say, unpleasant side effects. If you're short on time, canned beans work a treat, but soaking is worth it if you can manage it!

Can I freeze this bean soup recipe for later? I always make too much!

Absolutely! This bean soup is fantastic for freezing. Let it cool completely first, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It'll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it gently on the hob – maybe add a splash of water or broth if it's thickened up a bit too much. It's basically a ready meal, innit?

My bean soup is a bit bland. How can I boost the flavour?

Right, let's get some oomph into that soup! A squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of balsamic vinegar can brighten things up. Consider adding a bit of smoked paprika for a smoky depth, or a Parmesan rind while simmering for a savoury hit. Don't be afraid to experiment a little and trust your tastebuds, guv'nor!

I'm veggie – can I still make this bean soup recipe taste amazing?

You bet your bottom dollar you can! The recipe is naturally vegetarian if you use vegetable broth. For an even richer flavour, try using a roasted vegetable broth. And don't skip on those aromatics – a good sauté of onion, carrots, and celery is key to building a fantastic flavour base. You won't miss the meat, promise!

What kind of bread goes best with this bean soup? I'm aiming for a proper comforting meal!

Ah, now you're talking! Crusty bread is the classic choice - think sourdough, ciabatta, or even a rustic loaf. Toasting or grilling it and rubbing it with garlic takes it to another level. Also, don't underestimate a good cheese toastie (grilled cheese sandwich). Perfect for dipping and soaking up every last bit of that lovely soup. It's like a hug in a bowl with a side of carbs!

Is this Tuscan Bean Soup recipe healthy? I'm trying to eat better these days.

Absolutely! This bean soup is packed with fibre, protein, and vitamins. Beans are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, and all those vegetables add loads of nutrients. Just be mindful of the sodium content of your broth, and go easy on the cheese if you're watching your intake. It's a hearty and healthy meal that will keep you feeling full and satisfied without breaking the calorie bank!

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