Warm your soul with a bowl of our delectable White Bean Soup with Caramelized Leeks and Onions! This comforting American classic combines the sweet, rich flavors of caramelized leeks and onions with hearty white beans, creating a dish that’s not only satisfying but also bursting with nutrients. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is quick to prepare and will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Ready to discover the secret to a soul-soothing soup that will leave your guests begging for seconds? Let’s dive into the details!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 leeks, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash the leeks, ensuring all dirt is removed from between the layers. Slice the leeks into thin half-moon shapes and finely chop the onion.
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed soup pot over medium-low heat. Add sliced leeks and chopped onions, cooking slowly to caramelize. This process will take approximately 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- When leeks and onions have turned golden brown and developed a sweet, rich flavor, add minced garlic. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in vegetable broth and add drained white beans to the pot. Sprinkle dried thyme into the mixture.
- Increase heat to medium-high and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat and let the soup cook for 30-35 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
- Use a potato masher or the back of a wooden spoon to partially mash some beans, creating a creamier texture.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Ladle hot soup into serving bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately with crusty bread or croutons for added texture.
Tips
- Leek Cleaning: Make sure to thoroughly wash the leeks to remove any dirt trapped between the layers. A quick soak in water followed by rinsing can help ensure they’re clean before slicing.
- Caramelization: Be patient while caramelizing the leeks and onions. Cooking them slowly over medium-low heat allows their natural sugars to develop a rich flavor. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and achieve that perfect golden-brown color.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic, letting it reduce slightly before adding the broth.
- Creamier Texture: If you prefer a creamier soup, mash more beans than suggested or blend a portion of the soup in a blender before returning it to the pot.
- Garnishing: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that brightens the soup. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary for added complexity.
- Serving Suggestions: This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or homemade croutons. Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an indulgent touch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
