Creamy White Bean Soup: The Creamiest and Most Delicious Vegan Soup
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day, and this creamy white bean soup is the perfect dish to satisfy your cravings.
Whether you're vegan, vegetarian, or just looking for a healthy and hearty meal, this soup is loaded with plant-based protein, fiber, and the rich, creamy texture that everyone loves.
Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and customizable to fit your preferences. From cozy dinners to meal prep, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
End Your Day with Flavor – Explore These Delicious Dinner Ideas!
Ingredients for the Creamiest Vegan White Bean Soup
To make this delicious and creamy soup, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. All of them are easy to find at your local grocery store and can be modified based on what you have on hand.
- 2 cans of white beans (such as cannellini, Great Northern, or navy beans), drained and rinsed (Alternatively, use 1 ½ cups of cooked dry beans)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (for a richer flavor, opt for low-sodium broth)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or your preferred cooking oil)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup coconut milk (for extra creaminess, you can use full-fat coconut milk)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (to add brightness and balance the flavors)
For the gremolata topping (an optional yet flavorful garnish):
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making It
Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent. Stir frequently to avoid burning.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute. This will help release the aromatic flavors of the garlic and build the base for your soup.
Simmer the Soup:
- Add the drained and rinsed white beans, vegetable broth, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes. This simmering time helps the flavors meld together, making the soup more flavorful.
Blend for Creaminess:
- After simmering, remove the bay leaf. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot until it reaches your desired creaminess. For a chunkier texture, only blend half of the soup, leaving some whole beans intact for texture. Alternatively, you can transfer half of the soup to a blender, blend it, and then return it to the pot.
- Stir in the coconut milk for a smooth and velvety texture. If you prefer a thinner soup, add a little extra vegetable broth or water to reach the consistency you desire.
Add Lemon for Brightness:
- Stir in lemon juice at the end to brighten the flavors. This small addition helps balance the creamy richness and adds a fresh, zesty punch.
Prepare the Gremolata:
- While the soup is simmering, prepare the gremolata by mixing the chopped parsley, lemon zest, and minced garlic in a small bowl. The gremolata adds a fresh and tangy contrast to the creamy soup and elevates its flavor profile.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with a spoonful of gremolata. The gremolata not only adds a burst of flavor but also gives the soup a beautiful, colorful finish.
Why This Vegan White Bean Soup is a Must-Try
This creamy white bean soup is more than just a delicious meal; it’s packed with health benefits and versatility. Let’s dive deeper into why this soup is such a great choice for everyone:
- Packed with Protein and Fiber: White beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber. They help keep you full for longer, making this soup a great option for a filling meal. Fiber also supports digestive health, while the protein helps build and repair tissues.
- Rich in Nutrients: The combination of vegetables (onion, garlic, carrot, celery) and beans provides a healthy dose of vitamins (like vitamin A and vitamin C) and minerals (such as potassium and magnesium). This makes the soup not only satisfying but also nutrient-dense.
- Dairy-Free & Vegan-Friendly: Made with coconut milk, this soup is entirely dairy-free and suitable for vegans. It's also naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for people with dietary restrictions.
Creative Variations of This Recipe
- Add Greens: For an extra boost of vitamins and color, consider adding a handful of spinach or kale to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking. These greens will wilt quickly and complement the creamy texture of the soup.
- Swap Beans: While this recipe calls for white beans, you can easily swap them with other varieties like cannellini beans, navy beans, or great northern beans. Each type of bean will bring its own unique texture and flavor.
- Spice it Up: If you love heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for an added kick. You can also experiment with other herbs like sage or oregano for more flavor variations.
- Oil-Free Option: If you're looking for a lower-fat version, you can skip the olive oil and sauté the vegetables in water or vegetable broth instead.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This creamy vegan white bean soup is perfect on its own but can be paired with a variety of sides to create a balanced meal. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm, crusty loaf of sourdough or a piece of garlic bread for dipping. The bread complements the soup's creamy texture perfectly.
- Side Salad: Pair the soup with a fresh green salad for a light yet satisfying meal. Add avocado or roasted nuts for extra texture and nutrients.
- Quinoa or Rice: For a heartier meal, serve the soup over a bed of quinoa or brown rice. These grains add a nice chewiness and additional nutrients.
How to Store Leftovers
This soup stores incredibly well, making it a great option for meal prep. Here’s how to store and reheat it:
- In the Fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to adjust the consistency.
- In the Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.
Health Benefits of White Beans
White beans are a powerhouse ingredient in this soup. Here’s why they’re so beneficial:
- High in Fiber: White beans are an excellent source of soluble fiber, which can help lower cholesterol levels and improve digestion.
- Rich in Iron: Beans provide a good amount of iron, an essential mineral for healthy blood and energy levels. Pairing this soup with a side of citrus (like lemon) will enhance iron absorption.
- Heart-Healthy: The combination of fiber and plant-based protein in this soup is great for heart health. It helps manage cholesterol and supports overall cardiovascular function.
Simple, Hearty, and Deliciously Vegan
This creamy vegan white bean soup is the perfect blend of comfort, flavor, and nutrition. It’s an easy, one-pot meal that can be customized to fit your dietary needs, making it ideal for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner.
With the added gremolata, it becomes an elevated dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing.
Give this recipe a try today and enjoy a hearty, healthy, and creamy soup that everyone will love!
Enjoy Watching This Video with a Similar Recipe
Souce: Rainbow Plant Life
Did you find this post useful or inspiring? Save THIS PIN to your Cooking Board on Pinterest! 😊
Other Recipes You’ll Love 😍