Potato and Bean Soup

Introduction

Potato and Bean Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for cold weather. Packed with tender potatoes, creamy beans, and savory vegetables, this soup is both satisfying and nourishing. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and can be enjoyed as a meal on its own or paired with crusty bread.

I first made this soup when I was craving something warm and filling, and it quickly became a favorite. The blend of flavors and textures is just right, with the potatoes offering heartiness and the beans adding creaminess. This soup is also versatile—you can easily customize it with different types of beans or add in extra vegetables for added nutrition.

What’s great about this Potato and Bean Soup is that it’s both filling and wholesome. The combination of starchy potatoes and protein-rich beans makes it a great option for everyone, whether you’re a vegetarian or not. It’s a dish that’s perfect for cozying up with on a cold day, and it’s sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation!

Perfect for:

• Cold weather meals
• Weeknight dinners
• Family gatherings
• Comfort food lovers
• Easy meal prep

Why You’ll Love This Potato and Bean Soup

Here’s why Potato and Bean Soup will become a go-to dish in your kitchen:

• Hearty and Filling: This soup is full of hearty potatoes and protein-packed beans, making it a satisfying and filling meal.
• Comforting: It’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for warming up on a chilly evening, offering a soothing, cozy experience.
• Simple and Affordable: Made with budget-friendly ingredients, this soup is an easy and economical choice for feeding a crowd.
• Customizable: You can easily tweak the ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it a versatile recipe.
• Healthy and Nutritious: With beans as a primary ingredient, this soup is rich in fiber and protein, making it a wholesome, balanced meal.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 9g, Carbs: 40g, Fat: 7g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Potato and Bean Soup:

• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cans (15 oz each) of white beans (cannellini or great northern beans), drained and rinsed
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarian version)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamier texture)
• 2 cups spinach or kale (optional, for added greens)

Ingredient Highlights

• Potatoes: Potatoes add a creamy, comforting base to the soup and help thicken it as it cooks.
• Beans: White beans like cannellini or great northern beans provide protein and fiber, making the soup more filling and nutritious.
• Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and onion create a flavorful base for the soup, adding sweetness and depth.
• Herbs: Thyme and rosemary bring a warm, earthy flavor that complements the potatoes and beans.
• Broth: Vegetable or chicken broth adds richness and depth to the soup, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Heavy Cream (Optional): Adding cream gives the soup a velvety texture and richness, but you can skip it for a lighter version.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to make Potato and Bean Soup:

Prepare the Soup:

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
2. Add Garlic and Herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add Potatoes and Broth: Add the diced potatoes and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Add the Beans: Once the potatoes are tender, add the drained and rinsed beans to the pot. Stir to combine and let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Blend (Optional): If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup, leaving some chunks for texture. Alternatively, you can blend part of the soup in a regular blender and return it to the pot.
6. Add Cream (Optional): If you’re using heavy cream, stir it in now, allowing it to heat through for a few minutes.
7. Season to Taste: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. You can also add extra herbs if desired.
8. Add Greens (Optional): If you’re using spinach or kale, stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking, letting it wilt into the soup.

Serve the Soup:

9. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream, if desired. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.

How to Serve Potato and Bean Soup

Potato and Bean Soup is a versatile dish that can be served in many different ways:

• With Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of warm, crusty bread or a baguette for dipping.
• With a Side Salad: Pair it with a light, green salad for a well-rounded meal.
• For Meal Prep: This soup stores well, making it a great option for meal prep for the week ahead.
• As a Main Course: With the filling potatoes and beans, this soup can easily stand alone as a hearty main dish.
• With Toppings: Top with shredded cheese, crumbled bacon (for a non-vegetarian option), or a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness.

Additional Tips for Potato and Bean Soup

Here are some tips to ensure your Potato and Bean Soup turns out perfectly:

• Use Yukon Gold or Russet Potatoes: These varieties break down nicely when cooked, giving the soup a creamy texture.
• Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Keep an eye on the potatoes as they cook to avoid them becoming too mushy. You want them tender but still holding their shape.
• Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer longer to thicken up.
• For Extra Flavor: You can add a splash of white wine or vinegar at the end of cooking for an extra layer of flavor.
• Vegan Option: Omit the heavy cream and use coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
• Add Spice: For a little kick, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the soup.

Recipe Variations for Potato and Bean Soup

Here are 10 variations you can try for Potato and Bean Soup:

• Potato and Black Bean Soup: Swap the white beans for black beans for a different flavor profile.
• Add Bacon or Sausage: For a non-vegetarian version, add crumbled bacon or sausage for a smoky, savory flavor.
• Sweet Potato and Bean Soup: Replace regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor and more nutrients.
• Spicy Potato and Bean Soup: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of chili powder for a spicy kick.
• Lentil and Bean Soup: Add lentils along with the beans for an extra boost of protein.
• Curry Potato and Bean Soup: Stir in a teaspoon of curry powder or paste for a warm, aromatic flavor.
• Potato and Bean Soup with Spinach: Add spinach or other greens for extra nutrition and color.
• Creamy Potato and Bean Soup: Use a full cup of heavy cream or half-and-half for a richer, creamier texture.
• Italian Potato and Bean Soup: Add a couple of tablespoons of tomato paste and a handful of fresh basil for an Italian twist.
• Cheesy Potato and Bean Soup: Stir in a handful of shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy, comforting version.

Freezing and Storage for Potato and Bean Soup

• Freezing: This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove.
• Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding more broth if needed.

Special Equipment for Potato and Bean Soup

Here are some tools that will make preparing Potato and Bean Soup easier:

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: A sturdy pot is essential for making large batches of soup.
• Immersion Blender: An immersion blender allows you to blend the soup directly in the pot for a smooth, creamy texture.
• Wooden Spoon: A wooden spoon is great for stirring the soup without scratching your pot.
• Soup Ladle: A ladle makes it easy to serve the soup without making a mess.

Frequently Asked Questions for Potato and Bean Soup

1. Can I use canned potatoes?
   Fresh potatoes are best for this recipe, as they break down into the soup to create a creamy texture. Canned potatoes may not give the same result.
2. Can I use dried beans instead of canned beans?
   Yes, but you will need to cook the dried beans beforehand. Make sure they’re fully cooked before adding them to the soup.
3. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
   Yes! You can add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender and the soup is flavorful.
4. Can I make this soup gluten-free?
   Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t contain any wheat or gluten-containing ingredients.
5. Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
   Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like corn, peas, or zucchini for extra flavor and texture.

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Conclusion

Potato and Bean Soup is the ultimate comfort food. It’s simple, nourishing, and full of flavor. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal on a cold day or need a hearty dish to feed a crowd, this soup is sure to please. With its flexible ingredients and easy preparation, you can enjoy this satisfying soup anytime. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prepping and makes great leftovers!

This recipe is as comforting to make as it is to eat, making it a great choice for everything from casual weeknight dinners to family gatherings. Whether you’re savoring it with loved ones or enjoying it on your own, this soup will warm you up and fill you up.

I’d love to see how your Potato and Bean Soup turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!