A comforting, flavorful soup packed with vegetables, beans, and mushrooms in a rich homemade broth. This wholesome dish is perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner and is easy to prepare with pantry staples.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Ingredients
For the Soup Base:
- 3 onions (2 for broth, 1 for sautéing)
- 2 carrots (1 for broth, 1 for sautéing)
- 2 cloves garlic (1 for broth, 1 for sautéing)
- Water, enough to fill a large pot
- A few black peppercorns
For the Soup:
- Olive oil, for sautéing
- 2 sticks celery, chopped
- 1 can (400 g/14 oz) canned chopped tomatoes
- 2 cans (400 g/14 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 200–250 g mushrooms (e.g., button, cremini, or shiitake), sliced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 100 g (3 ½ oz) fresh spinach
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
- In a large pot, add 2 roughly chopped onions, 1 roughly chopped carrot, and 1 whole garlic clove.
- Add water to fill the pot and toss in a few black peppercorns.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and simmer for 30–40 minutes.
- Strain the broth and discard the vegetables.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables and Mushrooms
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Finely chop the remaining onion, carrot, and garlic. Sauté until the onion is softened.
- Add sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook until browned.
- Add chopped celery and sauté for another 2–3 minutes.
Step 3: Combine and Cook the Soup
- Add the sautéed vegetables and mushrooms to the strained broth in the pot.
- Stir in the canned chopped tomatoes and white beans.
- Season with salt, black pepper, dried basil, dried oregano, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Simmer over medium heat for 30–45 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender.
Step 4: Finish the Soup
- Add the fresh spinach to the soup and cook for an additional 3–5 minutes until wilted.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with crusty bread or garlic toast for a satisfying meal.
- Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Add a side of mixed greens or a simple salad for a balanced meal.
Cooking Tips
- Use fresh herbs like basil or oregano for added flavor if available.
- For a thicker soup, blend a portion of the white beans with some broth before adding to the soup.
- Customize the vegetables with what you have on hand, such as zucchini, kale, or bell peppers.
Nutritional Benefits
- White Beans: A great source of plant-based protein, fiber, and iron.
- Spinach: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and packed with antioxidants.
- Mushrooms: Low in calories and high in essential nutrients like selenium and potassium.
Dietary Information
- Vegan and gluten-free (ensure your broth and canned goods are compliant).
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – Approx. 6 servings):
- Calories: 200
- Protein: 8 g
- Fat: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 8 g
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze portions for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A nutritious and hearty meal that’s perfect for any season.
- Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins from beans and vegetables.
- Easy to prepare and adaptable with your favorite ingredients.
- Warm, comforting, and full of rich flavors.
Conclusion
This Hearty Vegetable and White Bean Soup is a delicious and nourishing meal that’s easy to make and perfect for any day. With its rich homemade broth, tender vegetables, and savory beans, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Pair it with bread or salad for a complete, satisfying meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use dried beans instead of canned? Yes, soak and cook them beforehand to save time during preparation.
- Can I skip the homemade broth? Store-bought vegetable or chicken broth works as a quicker alternative.
- Can I freeze the soup? Absolutely! It freezes well and can be reheated directly from frozen.
- What mushrooms work best? Button, cremini, or shiitake add great flavor, but any variety works.
- Can I make this soup spicier? Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for heat.
- What can I substitute for spinach? Kale or Swiss chard are excellent alternatives.
- Can I add pasta? Yes, small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo can be added during the simmering step.
- How do I make it creamier? Blend half of the soup or stir in coconut milk for a creamy texture.
- What can I serve it with? Crusty bread, a side salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich are great accompaniments.
- How do I store leftovers? Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Enjoy this wholesome, flavorful soup anytime!