When it comes to comforting and nourishing meals, vegan white bean soup stands out as a timeless favorite. This hearty soup is packed with creamy white beans, fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs, making it not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner on a chilly evening or a nutritious lunch to power you through the day, this soup delivers on all fronts without relying on any animal products. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite veggies and spices, making it a versatile staple in any plant-based kitchen.
In this post, you’ll find several delicious vegan white bean soup recipes that are simple to prepare and perfect for any season. From classic versions to those with a flavorful twist, these soups are sure to become your go-to options for wholesome comfort food.
Ready your ladle and warm up your soul with these nourishing bowls of goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Vegan white bean soup is a powerhouse of nutrition and flavor. The creamy texture of the white beans combined with aromatic herbs and vegetables creates a rich and satisfying meal that’s perfect for vegans and non-vegans alike.
Here are some reasons why this recipe will quickly become a favorite:
- High in protein and fiber: White beans provide plant-based protein and fiber, promoting fullness and digestive health.
- Budget-friendly: Beans and seasonal vegetables are affordable ingredients that stretch your dollar.
- Easy to make: With simple steps and common kitchen staples, this soup is beginner-friendly.
- Customizable: Add your favorite herbs, spices, or extra vegetables to adapt it to your taste.
- Freezer-friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or save for a busy day.
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried white beans (such as cannellini or navy beans), soaked overnight or 3 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups chopped kale or spinach (optional)
- Juice of 1 lemon (optional, for brightness)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or heat-safe spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Colander (if using canned beans)
- Blender or immersion blender (optional, for creamier texture)
Instructions
- Prepare the beans: If using dried beans, rinse and soak them overnight in plenty of water. Drain and rinse before cooking. If using canned beans, simply drain and rinse them well.
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
- Add garlic and herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and rosemary. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add beans and broth: Pour in the soaked and drained beans (or canned beans) and the vegetable broth. Add the bay leaf and stir well.
- Simmer the soup: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours if using dried beans, or 30 minutes if using canned beans, until the beans are tender.
- Add greens: About 10 minutes before the soup is done, stir in the chopped kale or spinach if using. Cook until wilted.
- Adjust seasoning and texture: Remove the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For a creamier soup, you can use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup directly in the pot, or transfer a portion to a blender and blend until smooth, then return to the pot.
- Add lemon juice: Stir in fresh lemon juice for a bright, fresh flavor.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Tips & Variations
“Don’t skip soaking dried beans overnight if you have time—it reduces cooking time and improves digestibility.”
- Use canned beans for convenience: If you’re short on time, canned beans work perfectly and reduce cooking time dramatically.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or smoked paprika for a subtle kick.
- Try different greens: Swiss chard or collard greens make great alternatives to kale or spinach. For more ideas, check out our Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals.
- Make it in a slow cooker: Combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours for a hands-off approach. Explore other slow cooker ideas in Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas.
- Boost protein: Add cooked quinoa or brown rice to make it more filling and protein-rich.
- Thicken naturally: Blend some of the soup and stir it back in to thicken without adding flour or cream.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (1.5 cups) |
---|---|
Calories | 220 |
Protein | 12 g |
Carbohydrates | 35 g |
Fiber | 9 g |
Fat | 4 g |
Sodium | 480 mg (varies by broth) |
Serving Suggestions
This vegan white bean soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside vegan garlic bread or a simple arugula and lemon salad for a refreshing contrast.
For a cozy, more indulgent meal, try it with warm, soft rolls. Our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves is perfect for making homemade bread to dip into this soup.
Additionally, this soup can be served as a starter for a larger meal featuring other vegan dishes. For some complementary recipes, check out our Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals or Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners.
Conclusion
Vegan white bean soup is a delicious and nutritious option that fits perfectly into any plant-based lifestyle. Its creamy texture, hearty ingredients, and rich flavors make it a satisfying meal that’s perfect year-round.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this soup is simple to prepare and easy to customize with your favorite veggies and spices.
By making this soup from scratch, you control the ingredients and can enjoy a wholesome, comforting dish without preservatives or additives. Plus, it’s a great way to add more plant-based protein and fiber into your diet.
Don’t forget to experiment with different herbs and greens to keep the recipe fresh and exciting each time you make it!
For more delicious vegan recipes and cooking inspiration, be sure to explore other favorites like our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious and Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating.
Happy cooking and enjoy your nourishing bowl of vegan white bean soup!
đź“– Recipe Card: Vegan White Bean Soup
Description: A hearty and creamy vegan white bean soup perfect for cozy dinners. Packed with protein and fiber, it's both nutritious and delicious.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT55M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups chopped kale or spinach
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf.
- Add vegetable broth and white beans; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes.
- Remove bay leaf and blend half the soup for creaminess.
- Return blended soup to pot and stir in kale or spinach.
- Cook for another 5 minutes until greens are wilted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 220 | Protein: 12g | Fat: 5g | Carbs: 30g
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