This Butter Bean Soup is a cozy and nourishing dish that brings warmth to any occasion. Packed with fluffy butter beans, a medley of vegetables, and an array of vibrant herbs and spices, this soup is not only delicious but also creamy without being heavy. Perfect for a family dinner or a hearty lunch, it’s easy to prepare and will satisfy your cravings while providing a healthy boost.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutrient-rich: Loaded with protein from butter beans and vitamins from fresh vegetables, this soup supports a healthy diet.
- Simple preparation: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this comforting soup in no time.
- Versatile flavors: Customize the spices and veggies according to your taste preferences or what you have on hand!
- Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch ahead of time, and enjoy it throughout the week for quick lunches or dinners.
- Comfort food-friendly: This creamy soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread or croutons for a satisfying meal.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your butter bean soup, gather the essential kitchen tools that will make your cooking experience seamless.
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Large heavy-based pot
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring spoons
- Blender or food processor
Why These Tools Matter
- Large heavy-based pot: This ensures even cooking and prevents burning as you simmer your soup.
- Blender or food processor: Essential for achieving that creamy texture by pureeing part of the beans.
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 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. Finally, add diced carrots and celery; toss to combine.
Step 2: Blend the Beans
Meanwhile, add 1½ cans of butter beans and the water to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. Transfer both pureed beans and remaining whole beans back to the pot.
Step 3: Simmer
Add vegetable broth, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper into the pot. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Reduce heat as necessary to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover slightly ajar and cook until the broth is flavorful while ensuring beans and vegetables are tender—about 25 minutes.
Step 4: Final Touches
Turn off the heat; taste your soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on top along with freshly ground black pepper if desired. Enjoy your delicious butter bean soup alongside crusty bread or croutons!
How to Serve Butter Bean Soup
Serving butter bean soup can be both simple and creative. This hearty soup is perfect for a cozy meal, and there are many ways to enhance its presentation and flavor.
With Crusty Bread
- Breadsticks – Serve warm breadsticks alongside the soup for a delightful crunch.
- Sourdough – A slice of sourdough bread is fantastic for dipping into the creamy soup.
- Garlic Bread – The buttery, garlicky flavor of garlic bread pairs perfectly with the soup.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Parsley – Chopped fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness to each bowl.
- Basil – A sprinkle of basil enhances the aroma and flavor profile wonderfully.
- Chives – Finely chopped chives provide a mild onion taste that complements the soup.
Drizzled with Olive Oil
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – A drizzle before serving adds richness and flavor depth.
- Flavored Oils – Consider using herb-infused olive oil for an extra layer of taste.
With Toppings
- Croutons – Add crunchy croutons on top for texture and additional flavor.
- Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado slices can enhance the richness of the dish.
How to Perfect Butter Bean Soup
To achieve the best butter bean soup, follow these simple tips for a creamy and flavorful dish.
- Use Fresh Vegetables – Fresh vegetables bring more vibrant flavors compared to frozen or canned options.
- Adjust Seasonings – Taste your soup before serving; adjusting salt and spices can make all the difference.
- Blend Partially – For a creamy texture, blend only half of the beans while leaving some whole for added substance.
- Let It Simmer – Allowing the soup to simmer longer helps deepen the flavors; just keep it on low heat.
- Experiment with Spices – Feel free to add your favorite spices like cumin or coriander for a unique twist.
- Serve Hot – Enjoy the soup hot for the best experience; reheat gently if needed.
Best Side Dishes for Butter Bean Soup
Pairing side dishes with butter bean soup can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delicious options that complement its flavors perfectly.
- Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
- Roasted Vegetables – Roasted seasonal vegetables add depth and enhance your meal’s nutritional value.
- Quinoa Salad – A zesty quinoa salad offers protein and texture, making it a satisfying addition.
- Cheesy Toasts – Toasted bread topped with melted cheese adds a comforting element that pairs well with soup.
- Stuffed Peppers – Hearty stuffed peppers filled with rice or lentils create a filling combination alongside the soup.
- Pita Chips – Crunchy pita chips serve as an excellent snack option to dip into your butter bean soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making butter bean soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.
- Skipping aromatic ingredients: Neglecting to use onions and garlic can lead to a flat flavor. Always sauté these ingredients first to build a solid base.
- Overcooking vegetables: If you cook your veggies too long, they may become mushy. Aim for tender yet firm veggies for the best texture.
- Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning before serving can result in bland soup. Always sample and tweak salt and pepper as needed.
- Using low-quality broth: A poor-quality broth will diminish the overall taste of your soup. Opt for low sodium vegetable broth for better flavor control.
- Not blending enough beans: Blending only a portion of the beans can make the soup less creamy. Ensure you blend at least 1 ½ cans for the desired texture.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Allow cooling completely before refrigerating.
Freezing Butter Bean Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
- Leave space at the top of containers for expansion during freezing.
Reheating Butter Bean Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm.
- Microwave: Pour into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until hot, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: Transfer to a pot, add a splash of water or broth if necessary, and heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Butter Bean Soup?
Butter bean soup is a creamy, nutritious dish made primarily from butter beans, vegetables, herbs, and spices. It’s hearty and comforting.
Can I customize Butter Bean Soup?
Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like spinach or kale or change the spices based on your preferences.
How do I thicken Butter Bean Soup?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, blend more beans or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.
Is Butter Bean Soup vegan?
Yes! This recipe is entirely plant-based and does not contain any animal products.
How can I serve Butter Bean Soup?
Serve it hot with crusty bread or croutons on top for added texture. A drizzle of olive oil enhances the flavors too.
Conclusion
This butter bean soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for cozy meals any time of year!
Butter Bean Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Discover the cozy charm of this creamy butter bean soup, a nourishing dish that warms the heart with every spoonful. Bursting with flavor from fluffy butter beans and a colorful array of fresh vegetables, this soup is not only delicious but also incredibly healthy. Seasoned with vibrant herbs and spices, it strikes the perfect balance between comfort and nutrition. Whether served for a family dinner or as a hearty lunch option, this easy-to-make recipe will surely satisfy your cravings while providing a wholesome boost to your day. Pair it with crusty bread or croutons for an irresistible meal any time of year.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 medium-sized carrots, diced
- 2 medium-sized celery ribs, diced
- 2 cans (14oz each) butter beans, drained
- 1 cup water
- 2 cups low sodium vegetable broth
- ¾ teaspoon fine salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- In a large heavy-based pot over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté the diced onion until soft and translucent (3–5 minutes). Add minced garlic, smoked paprika, and seasonings; cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Stir in diced carrots and celery.
- Blend 1½ cans of butter beans with water until smooth. Return blended beans and remaining whole beans to the pot.
- Pour in vegetable broth and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer for about 25 minutes.
- Taste the soup; adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and enjoy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Soup
- Cuisine: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 730mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 0.8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
