Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe

This rustic and hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup is the perfect comfort food for any day of the week. Packed with cannellini beans, vibrant vegetables, and fragrant herbs, this soup is both flavorful and satisfying. Best of all, it comes together quickly and easily, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you crave a nourishing and delicious meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup is surprisingly simple to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
• Flavorful: The combination of herbs, vegetables, and white wine creates a depth of flavor that will impress.
• Healthy and Hearty: Packed with fiber and protein from the cannellini beans, this soup is a healthy and satisfying meal.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable to your preferences with ingredient substitutions and variations.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Cannellini Beans: The star of the show! Be sure to drain and rinse them well for the best flavor and texture.
• Yellow Onion: Forms the base of the flavor profile, so make sure to chop it finely.
• Garlic: Adds a pungent aroma and depth of flavor; fresh, minced garlic is always best.
• Olive Oil: Essential for sautéing the vegetables and adding richness to the soup.
• Carrots: Bring a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to the soup.
• Celery: Adds a subtle earthy note and contributes to the overall depth of flavor.
• White Wine: Use a dry white wine like Pinot Grigio to deglaze the pot and add a layer of complexity to the soup. If you don’t have wine, you can substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth with a tablespoon of lemon juice.
• Kale: This leafy green adds nutrients and a slightly bitter note that balances the other flavors. Make sure you remove the stems and chop it finely.
• Vegetable or Chicken Broth: The liquid base of the soup; choose the one that best suits your taste.
• Tomato Paste: Enhances the savory flavors and adds a touch of richness.
• Salt and Pepper: Season to taste; don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning as you go.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a touch of heat; omit if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs provides a warm and aromatic flavor.
• Bay Leaves: Infuse the soup with a subtle herbal aroma; remember to remove them before serving.
• Dried Thyme: Adds an earthy and slightly minty flavor.
• Dried Oregano: Contributes a pungent and slightly bitter note.

Variations

Want to personalize your soup? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Add Some Greens: Spinach, chard, or escarole are excellent substitutes for kale.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
• Protein Boost: Add cooked sausage, bacon, or pancetta for a heartier meal.
• Lemon Zest: A little lemon zest can brighten the flavors of the dish.
• Herbs: You can use fresh herbs in place of dry herbs, but add them at the end of cooking for the best flavor.

How to Make Tuscan White Bean Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it starts to soften and brown slightly. Then, add the minced garlic, diced celery, and chopped carrots. Sauté for another 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and slightly browned. Browning the vegetables is essential for developing a deeper flavor.

Step 2: Deglaze with Wine

Pour in the white wine and cook, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot, until most of the liquid has evaporated, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Add the cannellini beans, chopped kale, vegetable or chicken broth (start with 2 ½ cups and add more as needed), tomato paste, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), Italian seasoning, bay leaves, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Simmer and Blend

Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.

Step 5: Blend and Finish

Remove the bay leaves. Carefully transfer about 2 ½ – 3 cups of the soup to a blender and blend until smooth. Pour the blended soup back into the pot and stir well to combine. If the soup is too thick, add more broth until it reaches your desired consistency. Simmer for another 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.

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Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Skip the Browning: Taking the time to sauté the vegetables until they are lightly browned is crucial for developing the soup’s flavor.
• Adjust the Broth: The amount of broth you use will determine the thickness of the soup. Start with less and add more until you reach your desired consistency.
• Taste and Adjust: Season the soup to your liking with salt, pepper, and other spices.
• High Quality Olive Oil: A good olive oil makes a big difference in the flavor of the soup.
• Don’t Overblend: Don’t overblend the soup, otherwise it can become gummy. You still want to see some texture.

How to Serve

This Tuscan White Bean Soup is delicious on its own, but it’s even better with a few simple accompaniments:

• Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up all the delicious broth.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty and savory note.
• Drizzle of Olive Oil: Enhances the richness of the soup.
• Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped parsley, basil, or thyme for a pop of freshness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until heated through. If the soup has thickened during storage, add a little broth or water to thin it out.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of beans?
  Absolutely! Great Northern beans, navy beans, or even chickpeas would work well in this soup. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
• Can I make this soup vegetarian?
  This soup is already vegetarian! However, if you want to make it vegan, be sure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Can I add more vegetables?
  Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the soup.
• How can I make this soup thicker?
  To thicken the soup, you can blend more of it or stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour mixed with a little cold water.

Final Thoughts

This Tuscan White Bean Soup is a bowl of comfort and flavor that’s surprisingly easy to make. With its simple ingredients, quick preparation, and endless variations, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal!

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