Near-Cast White Bean Soup
A hearty, comforting white bean soup with tomatoes, herbs, and vegetables, perfect for a nourishing meal that suits vegetarians and those seeking a wholesome, flavorful dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cover dried white beans with water and bring to a boil.
- Boil for 2 minutes, then cover and simmer for 1 hour.
- Saute chopped onion and minced garlic in olive oil for 5 minutes.
- Add the sautéed onion and garlic to the beans along with canned tomatoes, chopped carrots, celery, potatoes, and thyme or marjoram.
- Cook, covered, until the beans are tender.
- Mash the beans slightly and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Near-Cast White Bean Soup, consider adding a bay leaf during cooking. If you don't have dried white beans, canned beans can be used; just reduce the cooking time. For a heartier soup, include chopped greens or other seasonal vegetables. If you want a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with a slice of Favorite Homemade Bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it with a side of Spinach Salad Ala Rosemary for a fresh contrast. For an added touch, garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the soup, and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave. This soup also freezes well; just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Near-Cast White Bean Soup contains roughly 1225 calories, with 57g protein, 208g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (236% of the Daily Value), protein (114% of the Daily Value), and iron (112% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 66g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of beans for this soup?
Yes, you can substitute other beans like cannellini or navy beans. Just note that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of bean you choose.
Is this soup suitable for a vegan diet?
Absolutely! This Near-Cast White Bean Soup is naturally vegan, as it contains no animal products. It's a hearty and nutritious option for anyone following a vegan lifestyle.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Soak the beans overnight, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the beans are tender.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).