Vegan White Bean Soup

Creamy Vegan White Bean Soup

Vegan white bean soup is a hearty, nourishing dish that highlights the natural creaminess of white beans while keeping the ingredients simple and wholesome. It’s a perfect comfort food, especially during cooler months, combining beans, vegetables, and flavorful herbs like thyme and rosemary. The beauty of this soup lies in its versatility—you can easily adjust the consistency by blending some of the beans for a creamier texture or leave it chunky for a more rustic feel. Nutrient-rich additions like spinach or kale can also be incorporated to boost the health benefits, making it both delicious and filling.

This soup is not only packed with plant-based protein, thanks to the beans, but it’s also loaded with fiber, vitamins, and minerals from the vegetables. White beans, such as cannellini or great northern beans, provide a creamy texture that mimics the richness of dairy without the need for added fats. Whether you’re following a vegan diet or just looking for a comforting and nutritious meal, this white bean soup is a satisfying option that’s easy to prepare and perfect for batch cooking. Plus, it freezes well, so you can enjoy it any time you’re craving something warm and nourishing.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans white beans (cannellini or great northern beans), drained and rinsed

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 onion, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 carrots, diced

• 2 celery stalks, diced

• 4 cups vegetable broth

• 1 tsp thyme

• 1 tsp rosemary

• 1 bay leaf

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh spinach or kale (optional)

• Lemon juice (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened (about 5-7 minutes).

2. Add Seasoning & Broth: Stir in the thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf, then pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.

3. Add Beans: Add the white beans and continue to simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.

4. Optional: Stir in spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added greens.

5. Blend (Optional): For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup, or transfer a cup or two to a blender, then return it to the pot.

6. Season & Serve: Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired. Serve warm.