Soul-Warming Winter Soups
Cozy Up with Our Winter White Bean Soup Collection
As the temperatures drop, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup to nourish the soul. This winter, we’re sharing a collection of white bean soup variations that are sure to become family favorites. From classic Southern flavors to a touch of Cajun spice, these recipes offer something for everyone. White beans are not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber, making them a healthy and satisfying meal.
This isn’t just one recipe; it’s a springboard for culinary creativity! We’ve provided a base recipe for a hearty white bean soup, then outlined how to customize it with different ingredients to create three unique variations: Shrimp and White Bean Soup, White Bean Soup with Tasso Ham and Winter Squash, and Appalachian White Bean Soup with Ham Hock and Collard Greens.
What makes white bean soup so versatile? White beans have a mild flavor that readily absorbs the flavors of other ingredients. This makes them the perfect canvas for experimenting with different herbs, spices, and proteins. Plus, they create a wonderfully creamy texture without needing to add any cream!
Let’s explore the variations:
- Shrimp and White Bean Soup: A coastal twist on a classic, this soup combines the delicate sweetness of shrimp with the earthy goodness of white beans. It’s a light yet filling meal perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- White Bean Soup with Tasso Ham and Winter Squash: This variation brings a touch of Southern comfort with smoky tasso ham and sweet winter squash. It’s a hearty and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening.
- Appalachian White Bean Soup with Ham Hock and Collard Greens: Inspired by Appalachian cuisine, this soup features smoky ham hock and nutritious collard greens. It’s a rustic and flavorful soup that’s sure to warm you from the inside out.
Tips for the Perfect White Bean Soup:
- Soaking the beans: Don’t skip the overnight soak! It helps to reduce cooking time and makes the beans more digestible.
- Simmering is key: Allow the soup to simmer for at least 45-60 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the beans to become tender.
- Adjust the seasoning: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to create a flavor profile that you love.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use canned white beans? Yes, you can! If using canned beans, reduce the simmering time to about 20-30 minutes. Be sure to rinse and drain the beans before adding them to the soup.
- Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan? Absolutely! Omit the ham hock, tasso ham, or shrimp and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Can I freeze this soup? Yes, white bean soup freezes beautifully. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
- What’s the best way to serve white bean soup? Serve hot with a crusty bread for dipping. A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil adds a nice finishing touch.
We hope you enjoy these Winter White Bean Soup variations as much as we do! Let us know in the comments which one is your favorite.
Winter White Bean Soup Collection
Ingredients
- 1 lb Dried Cannellini Beans Soaked overnight
- 8 oz Smoked Sausage or Tasso Ham Diced
- 1 large Yellow Onion Chopped
- 2 stalks Celery Chopped
- 4 cloves Garlic Minced
- 8 cups Chicken or Vegetable Broth
- 1 tsp Dried Thyme
- 1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper Optional
- 1 lb Shrimp Peeled and deveined (for Shrimp and White Bean Soup)
- 1 medium Winter Squash Peeled, seeded, and cubed (for White Bean Soup with Tasso)
- 1 bunch Collard Greens Chopped (for Appalachian White Bean Soup)
- 4 oz Ham Hock Smoked (for Ham Hock and White Bean Soup)
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
- Salt and Pepper To taste
Instructions
- If using dried beans, soak overnight. Drain and rinse.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté onion, celery, and garlic until softened.
- Add smoked sausage or tasso ham and cook until browned.
- Add beans, broth, thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until beans are tender.
- For Shrimp and White Bean Soup: Add shrimp during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- For White Bean Soup with Tasso: Add cubed winter squash during the last 20 minutes of cooking.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot with crusty bread.
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