There’s a certain comfort that comes with a steaming bowl of soup, especially when it’s filled with hearty white beans and bright bursts of flavor. After a long day, I love curling up with a bowl of this creamy Vegan White Bean Soup, infused with zesty lime and a hint of green chiles. The first time I made it, I was surprised at how effortlessly it came together and how such simple ingredients could create a flavor explosion.
This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something satisfying and nourishing without spending hours in the kitchen. With minimal chopping and a hands-off cooking approach, you can whip up this delightful dish in no time. Plus, it’s vegan, gluten-free, and oh-so-creamy thanks to the white beans!
Imagine diving into a bowl of this comforting goodness, topped with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime, as all the worries of the day fade away. Let’s dive into how you can recreate this beloved recipe and bring a touch of warmth to your home!
Why is White Bean Soup a Weeknight Winner?
Comforting and Creamy: Experience the soothing feel of this white bean soup that wraps you in warmth with each spoonful.
Zesty Twist: The bright lime and spicy green chiles elevate the flavor, making each bite a delightful surprise.
Vegan and Gluten-Free: This recipe caters to various dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.
Quick and Easy: With minimal chopping and hands-off cooking, this soup fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it at gatherings or cozy family dinners, and watch it disappear as everyone comes back for seconds!
Don’t forget to pair it with cornbread for the ultimate comforting meal!
White Bean Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Cooked White Beans – 4½ cups; these provide the creamy texture the soup is known for and can be canned or pre-cooked for convenience.
• Vegetable Broth – 4 cups; acts as the soup’s base; opting for low-sodium helps control the salt level.
• Yellow Onion – 1 medium, chopped; adds a sweet depth of flavor when sautéed.
• Poblano Pepper – 1, diced; brings mild heat; substitute with bell pepper for a sweeter flavor.
• Diced Green Chiles – 1 (4-ounce) can; contributes a tangy heat; adjust the quantity based on your heat preference.
• Garlic Cloves – 4, chopped; lend an aromatic flavor; you can adjust depending on your taste for garlic.
For the Seasoning
• Sea Salt – 1¼ teaspoons; enhances all the flavors in the soup.
• Ground Cumin – 1½ teaspoons; adds warmth and earthiness to the overall taste.
• Dried Oregano – 1 teaspoon; provides herbal notes; consider using marjoram as a tasty substitute.
• Ground Coriander – ½ teaspoon; complements the tangy lime and chiles wonderfully.
• Black Pepper – to taste; enhances flavor and balances the spices used.
For the Creamy Texture
• Fresh Lime Juice – 2 tablespoons, plus wedges for serving; vital for adding a zesty tang; fresh juice is highly recommended.
For Serving
• Toppings – Fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños or serrano peppers, diced avocado, and sliced scallions; these add freshness and vibrant visual appeal.
With this collection of ingredients, you’re ready to whip up a heartwarming bowl of white bean soup that your family will adore!
How to Make White Bean Soup
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Blend half the white beans (2¼ cups) with ¾ cup of vegetable broth in a blender until smooth. This silky puree will help give your soup that creamy texture we all crave. Set aside.
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Heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 medium chopped yellow onion, 1 diced poblano pepper, and 1¼ teaspoons of sea salt. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent.
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Stir in the 1 can of diced green chiles, 4 chopped garlic cloves, 1½ teaspoons of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and ½ teaspoon of ground coriander. Cook for another 30 seconds until the mixture is fragrant, allowing the spices to infuse their flavors.
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Add the remaining 2¼ cups of white beans and 3¼ cups of vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing all the ingredients to meld beautifully together.
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Incorporate the bean puree from step one into the soup. Let it simmer uncovered for another 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened and creamy. The soup should have a velvety texture.
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Finish by stirring in 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning with black pepper or more salt if needed. Serve hot, topped with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, diced avocado, and lime wedges.
Optional: Garnish with crispy tortilla strips for an added crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Creamy White Bean Soup with Lime and Green Chiles?
Enhance your dining experience with delightful pairings that perfectly complement the creamy and zesty nature of the soup.
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Cornbread: The slightly sweet, crumbly texture of cornbread balances the soup’s creaminess and is a classic comfort pairing.
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Crispy Air Fryer Cauliflower: Lightly seasoned and roasted until golden, this crunchy side adds a fun texture that contrasts beautifully with the soup.
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Sautéed Kale: A warm, garlicky sautéed kale brings a robust earthiness, giving a refreshing green element that harmonizes with the flavors of the soup.
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Simple Green Salad: Toss together fresh greens with a zesty vinaigrette to brighten your plate, offering a crisp contrast to the warm soup.
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Jalapeño Cornbread: Take your cornbread up a notch with jalapeños for a spicy twist that enhances the zesty notes in the creamy white bean soup.
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Avocado Toast: Enjoy creamy avocado on toasted bread, adding a smooth and rich complement that echoes the soup’s velvety texture.
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Margaritas: Sip on a refreshing margarita with lime to further echo the zesty notes in the soup and invigorate your taste buds with each bite.
Let these pairings elevate your meal and turn a simple soup into an unforgettable culinary experience!
Expert Tips for White Bean Soup
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Blending Technique: Ensure to blend the white beans thoroughly for a creamy texture. A high-powered blender can help achieve the smoothness you desire.
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Seasoning Matters: Don’t skip on the lime juice and salt just before serving! They enhance the flavors and bring balance to the soup’s richness.
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Adjusting Heat: If you prefer a milder soup, feel free to reduce or omit the number of diced green chiles. Always taste as you go!
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Storage Savvy: Leftover white bean soup can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove for best results.
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Topping Choices: Experiment with toppings like fresh avocado, cilantro, or crispy tortilla strips. They add flavor and texture to your delightful soup!
How to Store and Freeze White Bean Soup
Fridge: Store leftover white bean soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s cooled completely before refrigerating.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the soup in portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Stir well to maintain creaminess.
Thawing: If frozen, thaw the soup in the fridge overnight before reheating for optimal taste and texture.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing this creamy white bean soup ahead of time is a game-changer for busy weeknights! You can blend the bean puree and refrigerate it for up to 3 days, helping to save time on cooking day. Additionally, chop the onion and poblano pepper ahead and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the prepped vegetables, add the remaining ingredients, and incorporate the bean puree. This method not only speeds up the cooking process but also allows the flavors to develop beautifully, ensuring your white bean soup is just as delicious as when freshly made!
White Bean Soup Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful soup; it’s all about creating a bowl that’s uniquely yours!
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers for an extra layer of heat that complements the creamy base wonderfully.
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Greens Galore: Toss in a handful of fresh spinach or kale toward the end of cooking for added nutrition and vibrant color. They’ll wilt beautifully into the soup.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or basil for a fragrant twist. Stir in right before serving to keep their flavor fresh and bright.
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Different Beans: Use different types of beans, such as cannellini or navy beans, to alter the flavor profile while keeping it creamy and delicious.
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Creamy Coconut: Swap out the vegetable broth for coconut milk for a rich, tropical flavor that adds a wonderful creaminess without the dairy.
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Savory Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onion for an earthy depth that pairs beautifully with the spices in the soup.
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Zingy Citrus: Add a splash of orange juice or zest, alongside the lime, to brighten up the flavors and give it a refreshing twist.
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Protein Boost: Stir in some cooked quinoa or lentils for an extra heartiness, making it not just a soup, but a filling meal!
Creamy Vegan White Bean Soup with Lime and Green Chiles Recipe FAQs
What type of white beans should I use?
Absolutely! You can use canned white beans like cannellini or navy beans for convenience, or pre-cook dried white beans. If using dried, soak them overnight, then cook until tender; this can take about 1 to 2 hours.
How long will leftovers last in the fridge?
Very! Refrigerate leftover white bean soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before putting it in the fridge for the best taste and freshness.
Can I freeze the white bean soup?
Absolutely! Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion, and you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge, and reheat on the stove for a creamy texture.
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If you find your white bean soup too thick after simmering, simply add more vegetable broth or water until you get your desired consistency. Stir well, and let it simmer a bit longer to warm through!
Is this recipe suitable for my gluten-free diet?
Yes, indeed! This creamy vegan white bean soup is completely gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free vegetable broth. It caters to various dietary needs, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the deliciousness!
Can I make this soup spicier?
Of course! To amp up the heat, add more diced green chiles or include fresh sliced jalapeños as a topping. You could also incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper during cooking—taste as you go to achieve your spicy perfection!
Deliciously Creamy White Bean Soup with Zesty Lime Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Blend half the white beans (2¼ cups) with ¾ cup of vegetable broth until smooth. Set aside.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, poblano pepper, and sea salt for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in green chiles, garlic, cumin, oregano, and coriander. Cook for 30 seconds.
- Add remaining white beans and vegetable broth. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Incorporate the bean puree and let it simmer uncovered for another 20 minutes.
- Stir in fresh lime juice. Adjust seasoning and serve hot with toppings.