Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe
Hearty Tuscan white bean soup is an Italian-inspired dish full of robust flavors and wholesome ingredients. This soup features tender white beans, vegetables, and savory herbs, creating a nourishing and satisfying meal. Perfect for cool evenings, this one-pot dish is simple to prepare and even better the next day as the flavors develop. Here’s how to make this comforting Tuscan soup step-by-step.
Ingredients for Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup
Main Ingredients:
- White beans (cannellini or Great Northern): 2 cans (15 ounces each), drained and rinsed
- Carrots: 2 medium, peeled and diced
- Celery: 2 stalks, diced
- Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Kale or spinach: 2 cups, chopped
- Vegetable broth: 5 cups (or chicken broth for a non-vegetarian option)
- Tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced, with juice
- Olive oil: 3 tablespoons
- Rosemary: 1 teaspoon, fresh or ½ teaspoon dried
- Thyme: 1 teaspoon, fresh or ½ teaspoon dried
- Bay leaf: 1
- Salt and black pepper: To taste
- Parmesan cheese: Grated, for serving
Optional Add-Ins:
- Crushed red pepper flakes: ¼ teaspoon for heat
- White wine: ½ cup for deglazing (optional for depth of flavor)
- Pancetta or bacon: 4 ounces, diced for extra richness
Equipment Needed:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
- Cutting board and knife
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5-6 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Deglaze and Build the Soup Base
- If using, pour in the white wine and cook for 2-3 minutes to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits for added flavor.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with juice), white beans, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaf.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and stir well.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
- Add the kale or spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking and let it wilt.
Step 4: Season and Serve
- Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil for a touch of richness.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving:
- Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping.
- Pair with a light side salad for a complete meal.
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen over time.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a bit of water or broth if the soup has thickened too much.
Helpful Notes
- For added protein, stir in cooked chicken or Italian sausage during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Texture tip: For a creamier soup, blend a portion of the soup and stir it back into the pot.
- Herb substitutions: Basil and oregano can also be used for a different flavor profile.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Lidia Bastianich: Recommends using high-quality olive oil for drizzling at the end to enhance the soup’s flavors.
- Giada De Laurentiis: Suggests adding a bit of lemon zest for a fresh finish.
- Ina Garten: Advises using homemade vegetable stock if possible for a richer base.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use dried beans?
Yes, soak and cook 1 cup of dried white beans in advance and add them to the soup.
2. Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! Use vegetable broth and skip the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative.
3. How do I make the soup thicker?
Blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or mash some of the beans with a spoon.
4. What other greens can I use?
Swiss chard or collard greens work well in place of kale or spinach.
5. Can I add pasta?
Yes, small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini can be added during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
6. What can I use if I don’t have rosemary or thyme?
Herbes de Provence or an Italian seasoning blend can be used for a similar flavor.
7. Is it okay to use fresh tomatoes?
Yes, chop 3-4 fresh tomatoes and add them with a little extra broth.
8. How can I add more flavor?
Add a Parmesan rind during simmering for an umami boost.
9. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, combine all ingredients except the greens and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the greens during the last 30 minutes.
10. What’s a good topping?
Croutons, toasted pine nuts, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes add great texture and flavor.
Enjoy your hearty Tuscan white bean soup for a warm, nourishing meal that’s perfect for any time of the year. This recipe combines simple ingredients for a wholesome, delicious dish that’s sure to be a family favorite!