Introduction
Transform humble white beans and fragrant rosemary into a heartwarming bowl of comfort with this simple, yet incredibly satisfying soup! It’s the perfect recipe for a chilly evening, a weeknight dinner, or even a cozy weekend lunch. This recipe is all about simple ingredients and big flavor, making it a family favorite in no time.
Why This Works
This recipe works because it’s incredibly versatile, easy to make, and packed with flavor. The rosemary adds a beautiful herbaceous aroma and depth of flavor that perfectly complements the creamy texture of the white beans. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
Key Ingredients
- 🥫 2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 🧅 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🌿 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 🥕 1 large carrot, chopped
- 🥔 1 large potato, peeled and cubed
- 🥣 6 cups vegetable broth
- 🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
- 🍃 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
1️⃣ Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and carrot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2️⃣ Stir in the garlic and rosemary and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3️⃣ Add the potatoes and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4️⃣ Add the cannellini beans and simmer for another 5 minutes to heat through.
5️⃣ Season with salt and pepper to taste. Use a hand blender or regular blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency (or leave it chunky!).
Handy Tips
- For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender directly in the pot.
- If you don’t have fresh rosemary, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Some people prefer a little more salt or pepper.
Heat Control
Simmering the soup over low heat ensures that the vegetables cook evenly and the flavors meld together beautifully without burning. Bringing it to a boil first helps the potatoes cook faster.
Crunch Factor
While this recipe focuses on the creamy texture of the white beans, you can add a crunch factor by serving it with crusty bread or a sprinkle of toasted nuts before serving.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For a richer flavor, sauté the onion, carrot, and garlic in butter instead of olive oil.
- Add a splash of white wine to the soup while it simmers for extra depth of flavor.
- A bay leaf added during simmering adds a subtle complexity and can be removed before serving.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually deepen overnight!
Gift Packaging Ideas
This soup makes a wonderful gift! Package it in a cute jar or thermos with a festive ribbon and a handwritten recipe card.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
🌟 Lemon Herb: Add the zest and juice of half a lemon at the end of cooking.
🌟 Smoked Paprika: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika along with the other spices for a smoky twist.
🌟 Sausage: Brown some Italian sausage before adding the onions and carrots.
Troubleshooting
- Soup is too thick: Add a little more vegetable broth until you reach your desired consistency.
- Soup is too thin: Simmer uncovered for a bit longer to reduce the liquid.
- Soup lacks flavor: Add more rosemary, salt, pepper, or a splash of lemon juice.
FAQ
- Can I use other types of beans? Yes, you can substitute with other white beans like great northern beans or cannellini beans.
- Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? Yes! Sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Is this soup vegetarian/vegan? Yes, this recipe is naturally vegetarian and vegan.
- Can I freeze this soup? Yes, allow the soup to cool completely before freezing in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
This Grandma’s Cozy White Bean & Rosemary Soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for sharing with family and friends. We hope you enjoy this comforting and flavorful recipe as much as we do! Don’t forget to share your culinary creations with us – we’d love to see your photos!