Fire-Roasted White Bean Soup

This Fire-Roasted White Bean Soup is a comforting, hearty dish with layers of rich flavors, thanks to the fire-roasted tomatoes and savory herbs. Packed with nutritious white beans and a fragrant blend of garlic, onion, and thyme, this soup makes for a perfect meal on a chilly day. It’s simple to make and incredibly satisfying, with a smooth texture that comes together in just 35 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a healthy lunch, this soup is sure to warm you from the inside out.

Ingredients

• 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Directions

1. Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Beans, Tomatoes, and Broth: Add the white beans, fire-roasted diced tomatoes (with their juices), vegetable broth, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
3. Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup or pulse lightly.
5. Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

1. Add Greens: For extra nutrition, stir in some spinach, kale, or Swiss chard during the last few minutes of cooking.
2. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.
3. Smoky Flavor: If you want an extra smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a few dashes of liquid smoke.
4. Creamy Version: For a creamier soup, blend in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream after blending the soup.
5. Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs, like rosemary or oregano, to customize the flavor profile.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup is too thick after refrigeration, add a little more vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use fresh beans instead of canned?
   Yes, you can cook dried white beans from scratch. Just make sure they are fully cooked before adding them to the soup.
2. Can I use a different type of bean?
   Absolutely! You can swap the white beans for other beans like cannellini, navy beans, or even chickpeas.
3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
   Yes, this soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even better the next day.
4. Do I have to blend the soup?
   Blending the soup makes it creamy and smooth, but you can also leave it chunky if you prefer a more rustic texture.
5. What can I serve this soup with?
   This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete meal.
6. Can I freeze this soup?
   Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag.
7. Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
   Yes, you can substitute chicken broth for a non-vegetarian version of the soup.
8. How can I make this soup more filling?
   Add some cooked grains like quinoa, rice, or barley to make the soup heartier. You can also stir in some diced cooked chicken or sausage.
9. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
   Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used, but you’ll need to roast them to get that smoky flavor. Just chop them and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes before adding to the soup.
10. How can I make this soup spicier?
    For more heat, add chili flakes, hot sauce, or a chopped fresh chili pepper when cooking the onions and garlic.

Conclusion

This Fire-Roasted White Bean Soup is a simple yet flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy dinner. With its hearty beans, smoky fire-roasted tomatoes, and fragrant thyme, this soup delivers comfort in every spoonful. It’s quick to prepare, customizable with various toppings and add-ins, and perfect for meal prep. Whether you’re looking for a warming lunch, a healthy dinner, or a light appetizer, this soup is sure to hit the spot.

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