Butter Bean Soup

There’s something truly comforting about a bowl of Butter Bean Soup on a chilly winter evening. Picture this: you’re wrapping up a long day, the air outside is crisp, and all you want is a warm, nourishing meal that wraps you in a hug. That’s where this delightful soup comes in. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, Butter Bean Soup has a way of making everything feel right in the world. The best part? It’s not just a recipe; it’s a story shared around the table with loved ones.

Ingredients Overview for Butter Bean Soup

The ingredients in Butter Bean Soup come together to create a harmonious blend of flavors. The star of the show is, of course, the butter beans, known for their creamy texture and rich taste. Paired with a base of aromatic onion and garlic, the soup develops depth and warmth. Fresh dill adds a bright note, while the carrots and celery provide a subtle sweetness that balances the dish.

• 1 pound dry butter beans (or 6 cups cooked or canned butter beans – you can sub cannellini or navy beans): A hearty base for our soup, butter beans are creamy and provide essential nutrients.
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil: This rich oil serves as a foundation for sautéing and enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 large sweet onion, peeled and chopped: Onions add sweetness and depth, forming the aromatic base of the soup.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: A touch of garlic elevates the flavor profile and adds fragrance.
• 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds: The sweetness of carrots balances the savory elements.
• 2 celery ribs, sliced: Celery contributes crunch and freshness to the soup.
• 14 ounces crushed tomatoes (1 can – fire roasted is ok): Adds acidity and texture, bringing the soup together.
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor enhances the overall richness of the soup.
• 6 tablespoons fresh chopped dill, divided: Dill adds a fresh, herbaceous note that lightens the dish.
• 1 bay leaf: A simple addition that infuses the soup with aromatic flavor.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the ingredients.

How to Prepare Butter Bean Soup

Making Butter Bean Soup is a satisfying process that fills your kitchen with comforting aromas. You’ll start by preparing your beans, whether you soak them overnight or use a quicker method. The steps below guide you in creating a rich and hearty soup that’s perfect for sharing.

1. Begin by covering the dry butter beans with cold water in a large bowl and soak them overnight. If you’re pressed for time, you can opt for a quick soak method. To do this, bring 8 cups of water to a boil in a medium pot. Add the dry beans and boil for 3 minutes. Remove from heat and let the beans soak in the hot water for 2 hours. After soaking, drain and rinse the beans until the water runs clear. Remove and discard any loose skins.
2. In a large pot, heat ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté it for about 10 minutes until softened. The onion should become translucent and fragrant.
3. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until fragrant and golden. The aroma will be irresistible at this stage, signaling that your base is coming together.
4. Now, incorporate the sliced carrots, celery, and the soaked butter beans into the pot. Stir these ingredients together, allowing them to mingle for a minute or so.
5. Cover the ingredients with 8 cups of water (if using canned beans, add 6 cups of water instead) and bring the mixture to a slow boil. You’ll notice some foam rising to the top. This is perfectly normal; skim it off as it appears.
6. Once the foam dissipates, add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste to the pot. Also, add ¼ cup of the freshly chopped dill and the bay leaf. Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. The soup should start to smell delightful!
7. Allow the soup to simmer for 75 to 90 minutes until the butter beans are tender. If you’re using canned beans, a simmer of about 30 minutes will suffice. As it simmers, keep an eye on the consistency; if it becomes too thick, feel free to add a little more water.
8. Toward the end of cooking, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. This is your chance to make it just right!
9. Once the soup reaches your desired flavor and consistency, ladle it into bowls. Garnish with the remaining fresh dill for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your Butter Bean Soup hot!

Ways to Customize

The beauty of Butter Bean Soup is its adaptability. Here are some ways to make it your own:

• Spice it Up: For those who enjoy a kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
• Herb Variations: Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can be used instead of dill for a different flavor profile.
• Add Greens: Toss in a handful of spinach or kale toward the end of cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Protein Boost: For extra heartiness, add shredded chicken or cooked sausage if you’re not keeping it vegetarian.
• Serve with Bread: This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a warm baguette for dipping.
• Top it Off: Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or yogurt on top for a creamy finish.
• Make it Creamy: If you prefer a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup before serving.

Pairing Suggestions for Butter Bean Soup

When serving Butter Bean Soup, the best accompaniments can elevate the experience. Here are some delightful pairing ideas:

• Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup. It’s a classic pairing that enhances the meal.
• Simple Side Salad: A light side salad with mixed greens and a lemon vinaigrette complements the soup without overshadowing it.
• Cheese Toast: Try serving the soup with toasted bread topped with melted cheese for a comforting twist.
• Occasions: This soup is fantastic for family dinners and gatherings, especially during cozy winter evenings.
• Seasonal Pairings: Pair it with roasted vegetables in the fall or fresh salads in the spring for a seasonal touch.
• Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to three months, making meal prep a breeze!

FAQ

Conclusion

There’s so much to love about Butter Bean Soup. It’s comforting, nourishing, and perfect for any gathering. I encourage you to give it a try. You’ll find that it warms your heart and your home, making it a dish worth sharing with family and friends.

Butter Bean Soup

The ultimate comfort food, Butter Bean Soup is creamy, hearty, and packed with flavor. Perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, this easy weeknight dinner will leave everyone craving more!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 2 hours hrs

Cook Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Total Time 3 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Course Soups

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

• Baking Sheet
• Chef's Knife
• Large Pot
• Skillet
• Saucepan
• Peeler

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound dry butter beans or 6 cups cooked or canned butter beans – you can sub cannellini or navy beans
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 large sweet onion peeled and chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 2 large carrots peeled and sliced into rounds
• 2 ribs celery sliced
• 14 ounces crushed tomatoes (1 can – fire roasted is ok)
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 6 tablespoons fresh chopped dill divided
• 1 leaf bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper

Instructions

 

• Cover the dry butter beans with cold water and soak them overnight. If you're short on time, you can quick soak them by boiling for 3 minutes and letting them rest in hot water for 2 hours.
• In a large pot, heat ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 10 minutes until softened.
• Add the minced garlic and sauté for 3-4 minutes more until fragrant.
• Add the sliced carrots, celery, and soaked butter beans into the pot.
• Cover the ingredients with 8 cups of water (if using canned beans, add 6 cups) and bring to a slow boil. Skim off any foam that rises.
• Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, ¼ cup of dill, and bay leaf. Season with salt and black pepper.
• Let the soup simmer for 75 to 90 minutes until the butter beans are tender. If using canned beans, simmer for about 30 minutes.
• Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with the remaining dill.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: This soup freezes well; store it in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.
• Pairing: Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Variations: Experiment with different herbs or add greens for added nutrition.

Keyword Butter Bean Soup, Comforting Soup Recipes, Healthy Soup Ideas, Winter Soups

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Meet Penny Porter

I bring the energy to our cooking sessions. I don’t have a “specialty” because I love it all I’m just as happy kneading dough as I am stirring a spicy curry. My favorite part of being on this team is the variety. One day we’re making pasta from scratch, and the next we’re grilling outdoors. I love the fast-paced creative process and am always the first one to grab an apron when a new idea pops up.