There’s something special about a warm, comforting bowl of butter bean soup, especially on a chilly day. I still remember the first time I tasted this hearty dish. One spoonful transported me to a cozy kitchen where family gathered, laughter filled the air, and the aroma of spices wafted through the open windows. Creating this soup in your own kitchen is a delightful experience, transforming simple ingredients into a rich, satisfying meal.
This butter bean soup is not only filling and delicious, but it also boasts a smooth, creamy texture thanks to the blended beans. The delightful combination of flavors from the vegetables, herbs, and spices gives it an inviting warmth, making it perfect for any occasion—whether you’re sharing it with loved ones on a lazy Sunday or enjoying a quiet evening at home. Let’s dive into why this soup deserves a spot in your recipe collection.
Why you’ll love this
- Quick to prepare, ensuring your dinner is ready in no time.
- Packed with flavor, thanks to aromatic herbs and spices.
- A nutritious way to enjoy plant-based protein and fiber.
- Freezer-friendly, making it easy to save for later.
- Minimal clean-up with just one pot required.
“Tastes incredible and so simple to make.”
Step-by-step overview
This butter bean soup comes together effortlessly. You start by sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil until they’re soft, then add in the spices and vibrant vegetables. The next step involves blending a portion of the beans for creaminess, adding them back to the pot with broth and seasonings. You’ll simmer everything together until the flavors meld and the vegetables are tender, resulting in a delightful soup that’s sure to please.
Key ingredients
- 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
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Butter beans: These can be substituted with any canned white beans like cannellini or navy beans for similar texture and flavor.
- Olive oil: You can use avocado oil if you want a higher smoke point or prefer a different flavor profile.
- Herbs: Feel free to adjust the spices to match your taste; fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the flavors.
Cooking method
This butter bean soup is straightforward and rewarding.
- Heat the olive oil in a large heavy-based pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook until it’s soft and translucent, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic along with the smoked paprika, Italian herb seasoning, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper. Cook until fragrant—about 30 seconds.
- Toss in the diced carrots and celery, making sure they are well mixed with the aromatic base.
- Meanwhile, blend 1 ½ cans of the butter beans with 1 cup of water until smooth to create a creamy base.
- Transfer the pureed beans back to the pot along with the remaining whole butter beans, vegetable broth, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer.
- Cover the pot slightly ajar and cook until the broth is flavorful and the vegetables are tender—this typically takes about 25 minutes.
- Once done, taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and freshly ground black pepper if desired, alongside crusty bread or croutons.
Pro Tip: For an exceptional finish, add a splash of lemon juice just before serving to brighten the soup’s flavor.
Helpful cooking tips
- Let the onions and garlic caramelize slightly for richer flavor.
- If the soup is too thick, add a splash more broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
- For enhanced flavor, allow the soup to cool and refrigerate overnight, allowing the ingredients to meld further.
Best ways to enjoy it
To serve butter bean soup beautifully, ladle it into warm bowls and drizzle with a touch of extra virgin olive oil. Garnish with freshly cracked black pepper and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This soup pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty baguette or homemade croutons for dipping.
How to store & freeze
This butter bean soup stores exceptionally well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in portion-sized containers or freezer bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months; just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
How to fix common issues
If you encounter any issues while making this butter bean soup, here are some quick fixes:
- Dry texture: If the soup feels too dry or thick, add more vegetable broth or water gradually until you reach the desired consistency.
- Bland flavor: A sprinkle of salt or an additional splash of vinegar can enhance the overall taste.
- Overcooked vegetables: To maintain a crunch, add carrots and celery halfway through the cooking time instead of at the beginning.
Recipe variations
Feel free to get creative with your butter bean soup! Here are some enjoyable alternatives:
- Spicy kick: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for an extra kick of heat.
- Leafy greens: Stir in fresh spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for additional nutrition and a pop of color.
- Smoky flavor: Incorporate some diced smoked sausage or tempeh for a protein boost and deeper flavor notes.
Common questions
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can certainly use dried beans! Soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the soup. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
Is butter bean soup healthy?
Absolutely! This soup is loaded with fiber and plant-based protein, making it a nutritious choice for any meal. Plus, it offers plenty of vitamins and minerals from the added vegetables.
What goes well with butter bean soup?
This hearty soup pairs well with a side salad, crusty bread, or grilled cheese sandwiches, making it an ideal meal for lunch or dinner.
Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, this butter bean soup is naturally vegan! All of the ingredients are plant-based, making it a great option for vegetarians and vegans alike.
How do I make it creamier without blending beans?
You can add a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of cashew cream for an extra creamy texture without the need for blended beans.
This butter bean soup is not just a recipe; it’s a comforting dish that brings people together, warms the heart, and nourishes the soul. So why not gather those you love, serve a steaming bowl, and enjoy a moment of connection over a homemade meal?
Butter Bean Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large heavy-based pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook until it’s soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic along with the smoked paprika, Italian herb seasoning, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper. Cook until fragrant for about 30 seconds.
- Add the diced carrots and celery, mixing well with the aromatic base.
- Blend 1 ½ cans of the butter beans with 1 cup of water until smooth to create a creamy base.
- Transfer the pureed beans back to the pot along with the remaining whole butter beans, vegetable broth, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer.
- Cover the pot slightly ajar, cooking until the broth is flavorful and vegetables are tender, roughly 25 minutes.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and freshly ground black pepper, along with crusty bread or croutons.