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

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5-6 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Deglaze and Build the Soup Base

1. 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.
2. Add the diced tomatoes (with juice), white beans, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaf.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and stir well.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

1. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
2. Add the kale or spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking and let it wilt.

Step 4: Season and Serve

1. Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste.
2. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
3. 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!