## Introduction
Step into any family gathering and you’re bound to find a dish that has been passed down from generation to generation, a dish that when you take that first warm, comforting bite, transports you back to the memories of childhood. White Bean Soup is one of those dishes brought to you in the most simplistic, yet flavorful approach. This hearty soup has everything you need to fill you up and warm your soul.
## Why Make this Recipe
This White Bean Soup is not just hearty and delicious but also quite versatile and easy to cook. Rich in protein and vitamins, this dish can be a healthy addition to your diet whether you are a vegan, vegetarian or a meat lover. A bowl of this soup can be a complete meal in itself.
## How to Make White Bean Soup?
The process of making White Bean Soup is quite simple and direct.
## Ingredients
You will need:
– 2 cups dried white beans, soaked overnight
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 stalks celery, diced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– 6 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges
## Directions
1. Drain and rinse the soaked white beans. Set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Stir in the carrots and celery, cooking until they begin to soften.
4. To the mixture in the pot, add the drained beans, thyme, bay leaf and vegetable broth.
5. Bringing it to a boil, then reduce the heat to allow it to simmer for about 40 mins or till the beans are tender.
6. Proceed to remove the bay leaf and season the soup with salt and pepper according to taste.
7. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup slightly leaving some beans and vegetables for texture.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
## How to Serve White Bean Soup?
Serve this White Bean Soup hot, with fresh parsley sprinkled on top and a side of crusty bread or a warm baguette to soak up the creamy, luscious broth.
## How to Store White Bean Soup?
Store Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, defrost in the fridge overnight, then warm up on the stove.
## Tips to Make White Bean Soup
1. Soaking the beans overnight helps to reduce cooking time.
2. Using vegetable broth will yield a much more flavorful soup, but you can also use water.
3. Use fresh parsley for the best flavor.
## Variations
You can add diced tomatoes or spinach to add more variety to your soup. Also, if you want some heat, add a dash of chili powder or red pepper flakes.
## FAQs
1. Can I use canned beans?
Absolutely, just make sure you rinse them first to get rid of the excess sodium.
2. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes very well. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-proof containers, and it can keep for up to 2-3 months
3. What other vegetables can I add to the soup?
You can add any hearty vegetables like kale, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
And there you have it, your go-to bowl of comfort: White Bean Soup!