Cozy Butter Bean Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for those chilly evenings when you need something warm and hearty. This creamy and flavorful soup is made with tender butter beans, aromatic vegetables, and a blend of herbs and spices that come together to create a comforting and satisfying dish. It’s also incredibly easy to make, using simple pantry ingredients that make it ideal for a quick weeknight dinner. Serve this delicious soup with crusty bread for dipping, and you’ll have a meal that warms the heart and soul.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cans (15 oz each) butter beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (optional for creaminess)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Herbs and Spices: Stir in the dried thyme, dried rosemary, smoked paprika, and ground cumin. Cook for 1-2 minutes to let the spices bloom and become aromatic.
- Add Broth and Beans: Pour in the vegetable broth, butter beans, and diced tomatoes. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Blend the Soup: For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup directly in the pot. You can also transfer about half of the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, then return it to the pot. This step is optional, but it adds a wonderful creaminess to the soup.
- Add Cream: Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk, if using, for added creaminess. Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.
Tips for Perfect Butter Bean Soup
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce. For a thinner consistency, add a bit more broth.
- Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh thyme or rosemary on hand, use them instead of dried for an even more vibrant flavor.
- Blending: Blending part of the soup adds creaminess without needing too much added cream. If you like a chunky texture, skip the blending step.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Butter Bean Soup: Add 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Vegetarian Butter Bean Stew: Add more vegetables like spinach, kale, or potatoes to make it a heartier stew.
- Lemon Herb Butter Bean Soup: Add the juice of half a lemon and a handful of fresh spinach for a bright and fresh variation.
FAQs
Q: Can I use dried butter beans instead of canned?
A: Yes, you can use dried butter beans, but they will need to be soaked overnight and cooked until tender before adding them to the soup. This will add extra time to the preparation.
Q: Can I freeze Butter Bean Soup?
A: Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Cozy Butter Bean Soup is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of the year. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a meal to cozy up with on a cold night, this soup delivers on flavor and comfort. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and can be customized to suit your taste. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread and enjoy a bowl of hearty, homemade goodness!
