Butter Bean Soup

This Butter Bean Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or a cozy family dinner. Packed with nourishing butter beans, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this soup not only warms your heart but also delivers a delightful flavor experience. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal to share with friends or a simple dish for meal prep, this recipe checks all the boxes. Dive into the creamy goodness of this wholesome soup that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Loaded with protein from butter beans and vitamins from fresh vegetables, this soup is both filling and healthy.
• Customizable Flavor: Feel free to adjust the spices and veggies according to your taste preferences or what you have on hand.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week; it tastes even better the next day!
• Vegan-Friendly: This recipe is entirely plant-based, making it suitable for vegans and those looking to reduce meat consumption.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your butter bean soup, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make cooking smoother.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large heavy-based pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Blender or food processor
• Measuring cups and spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Large heavy-based pot: Ensures even heat distribution while cooking your soup, preventing burning.
• Blender or food processor: Helps achieve a creamy texture by pureeing the beans smoothly.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and effortless, saving you time in preparation.

Ingredients

This nourishing butter bean soup is packed with fluffy beans, lots of protein, veggies, and wonderful herbs and spices. It’s SO delicious, cozy and creamy! Recipe yields 4 servings (1 ¼ each).

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, plus more for serving
• 1 onion, diced (any color)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon Italian herb seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 medium-sized carrots, diced
• 2 medium-sized celery ribs, diced
• 2 cans (14oz/400 grams each) butter beans, drained
• 1 cup (240 ml) water
• 2 cups (480 ml) low sodium vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• ¾ teaspoon fine salt, or to taste
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more to serve

How to Make Butter Bean Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat oil in a large heavy-based pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3–5 minutes. Stir in garlic along with smoked paprika, Italian herb seasoning, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper; cook until fragrant for about 30 seconds. Then add diced carrots and celery; toss to combine.

Step 2: Prepare the Beans

In a blender or food processor, combine 1½ cans of butter beans with the water. Blend until smooth. Transfer the pureed mixture back into the pot along with the remaining whole beans.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Add low sodium vegetable broth, bay leaf, fine salt, and black pepper to the pot. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Once simmering, reduce heat as needed to maintain a gentle simmer while leaving the lid slightly ajar.

Step 4: Finish Cooking

Cook until the broth is flavorful and both beans and vegetables are tender—about 25 minutes. Turn off the heat when done; taste your soup and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 5: Serve

Ladle into bowls and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. Add freshly ground black pepper if desired. Enjoy your butter bean soup with crusty bread or croutons!

This simple yet delightful Butter Bean Soup will surely become a favorite in your home!

How to Serve Butter Bean Soup

This butter bean soup is not only hearty and nutritious but also versatile when it comes to serving options. You can enhance the experience by pairing it with different toppings or sides that complement its rich flavors.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Cilantro: Add cilantro for a hint of citrusy flavor that elevates the soup.

Include Crunchy Toppings

• Croutons: Top with homemade or store-bought croutons for an enjoyable crunch.
• Toasted Seeds: Try pumpkin or sunflower seeds for added texture and nutrition.

Offer Dairy Alternatives

• Vegan Sour Cream: A dollop of vegan sour cream adds creaminess and tang.
• Nutritional Yeast: Sprinkle nutritional yeast on top for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Pair with Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve with slices of crusty baguette for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: Garlic bread complements the soup’s flavors beautifully.

How to Perfect Butter Bean Soup

To ensure your butter bean soup turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance both flavor and texture.

• Bold Spices: Experiment with spices like cumin or coriander to deepen the flavor profile.
• Texture Balance: Blend some beans while leaving others whole to create a delightful mix of textures.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables instead of frozen for optimal taste and nutrients.
• Simmer Thoroughly: Allow the soup to simmer longer for more robust flavors as ingredients meld together.
• Taste Test: Always taste before serving; adjust seasoning as necessary for a personal touch.

Best Side Dishes for Butter Bean Soup

Pairing your butter bean soup with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent ideas that complement its comforting warmth.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with seasonal greens adds a crunchy contrast to the creamy soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Serve roasted seasonal vegetables for added flavor and nutrition.
3. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These provide a hearty side option filled with grains, veggies, and spices.
4. Cheesy Vegan Quesadillas: Crispy quesadillas filled with vegan cheese make a delightful pairing.
5. Savory Scones: Herbal scones can be perfect alongside the soup, adding a touch of sophistication.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy baked potato wedges make a satisfying side that everyone enjoys.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making butter bean soup can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch for. Here are a few mistakes to steer clear of:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasonings can lead to bland soup. Always taste before serving and add more salt or spices if needed.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking vegetables for too long can make them mushy. Aim for tender but still slightly firm veggies for better texture.
• Not blending enough beans: Blending all the beans may create a thicker texture, which some might not prefer. Blend only part of the beans for a creamier soup while keeping some whole.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth is the foundation of your soup’s flavor. Opt for high-quality low-sodium vegetable broth for the best results.
• Neglecting fresh herbs: Fresh herbs add brightness and depth to your soup. Consider adding fresh parsley or basil as a garnish right before serving.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool before sealing it in containers.

Freezing Butter Bean Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Butter Bean Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Pour into a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Butter Bean Soup vegan?

You can ensure your butter bean soup is vegan by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omitting any meat ingredients.

Can I add more vegetables to Butter Bean Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to include other vegetables like spinach, kale, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

What is the best way to serve Butter Bean Soup?

Serve warm with a drizzle of olive oil on top and crusty bread or croutons on the side for dipping!

How long does Butter Bean Soup last in the fridge?

Butter bean soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days if kept in an airtight container.

Can I freeze Butter Bean Soup?

Yes! Butter bean soup freezes well. Just store it in freezer-safe containers and consume within 3 months for optimal taste.

Conclusion

This butter bean soup is not only nourishing but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs. Enjoy this cozy dish on its own or paired with bread for a complete meal!

---