Simple and Hearty Bean Soup with Carrots Recipe
There’s something wonderfully comforting about a warm, hearty bowl of soup, especially when it’s made with wholesome ingredients like white beans, carrots, and a flavorful broth. This Bean Soup with Carrots is a great option for a filling meal that’s easy to prepare, yet packed with nutrients. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a cozy night in, or meal prep for the week, this soup is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients for Bean Soup with Carrots
- 1 can of white beans (approximately 15 oz), drained and rinsed
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions for Preparing Bean Soup with Carrots
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil and Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Stir frequently and cook for about 3-5 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly.
Step 2: Add the Carrots
After the onions and garlic have cooked down, add the chopped carrots to the pan. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the carrots to soften slightly. The natural sweetness of the carrots will complement the savory base of the soup.
Step 3: Pour in the Vegetable Broth
Once the carrots have softened, pour in the vegetable broth. Stir to combine all the ingredients, ensuring that the carrots and onions are evenly distributed throughout the liquid. Raise the heat slightly and bring the soup to a boil.
Step 4: Add the Beans and Seasonings
Once the soup has started boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Add the white beans, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to incorporate the beans and seasonings into the broth. Let the soup simmer gently with the lid on for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and the flavors have melded together.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust the Seasoning
After simmering, taste the soup to check if the seasoning is to your liking. Add more salt, pepper, or thyme as needed. If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can also add a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the soup is done, ladle it into bowls while it’s still warm. This soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread for dipping or a light salad on the side. Enjoy the cozy, comforting flavors!
Tips for Making the Best Bean Soup with Carrots
- Use Fresh Herbs: While dried thyme works well in this recipe, using fresh thyme can elevate the flavor of the soup. Add a sprig or two of fresh thyme to the broth for a more aromatic taste.
- Add Greens for Extra Nutrition: For a boost of vitamins, you can stir in some fresh spinach or kale toward the end of cooking. Just add the greens and let them wilt into the soup.
- Customizing the Beans: While white beans are the star of this recipe, you can experiment with other types of beans like kidney beans, black beans, or chickpeas for a different texture and flavor.
- Make it Creamier: For a creamier version of this soup, consider blending part of the soup using an immersion blender. This will give the soup a thicker, more velvety texture without losing the hearty ingredients.
- Meal Prep Tip: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days, so it’s a great option for meal prepping. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months for an easy future meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! To make this soup in a slow cooker, sauté the onions and garlic in olive oil on the stove first. Then, transfer them to the slow cooker, add the remaining ingredients, and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the carrots are tender. The slow cooker method will give the soup even more time to develop its flavors.
Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
Yes, you can use chicken broth if you prefer. However, if you’re aiming for a vegetarian or vegan dish, vegetable broth is the best option. Chicken broth will add a slightly richer flavor to the soup.
Is this soup vegan-friendly?
Yes, as long as you use vegetable broth and opt for a vegan-friendly olive oil, this soup is fully vegan. It’s also gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs.
How do I store leftover soup?
Store leftover bean soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop until warmed through.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely! This soup is very versatile, and you can easily add other vegetables like celery, bell peppers, zucchini, or potatoes. Just chop them into small pieces and add them at the same time as the carrots so they have enough time to cook through.
What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a fresh salad, crusty bread for dipping, or even a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting, complete meal.
This Bean Soup with Carrots is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Packed with nutrients from beans and vegetables, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a warm, flavorful meal. With its simple ingredients and versatile nature, this soup can easily become a family favorite. Enjoy it as a comforting dinner or make a big batch for meal prep—either way, it’s sure to hit the spot!