Creamy Tuscan White Bean Stew
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a bowl of comfort? This white beans recipe is pure, unadulterated happiness. Honestly, it's like a hug in a bowl, perfect for a chilly night.
Plus it is very Easy white bean recipe .
Brief Overview
This Creamy Tuscan White Bean Stew is inspired by the Italian countryside. It's a super simple dish with an incredible depth of flavour.
This is an Easy white bean recipe that is great for all skill levels. It takes about an hour and makes 6 hearty servings.
Main Benefits
Beans are nutritional powerhouses. This stew boasts plenty of fiber and protein. It's perfect for a cosy family dinner or impressing friends.
What makes it special? The creamy texture and vibrant flavors! This recipe is sure to have your guest asking for seconds.
The Magic of White Beans
This Italian white bean soup has that rustic, comforting vibe we all crave. It’s based on the Cannellini Bean Stew recipe from NYT Cooking.
That recipe really hit the spot and became my inspiration.
I've tweaked it to be even easier. And I’ll be sharing my tips for extra flavour.
Why Cannellini Beans?
Cannellini beans are the star. These creamy beans soak up the broth beautifully. But Great Northern beans or navy beans work too.
If you have Spinach Cannellini Beans Soup in mind, just add a handful of chopped spinach at the end.
Ingredients: Simple but Powerful
Let's talk ingredients. We need olive oil, onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Oregano and red pepper flakes provide a subtle warmth.
Canned cannellini beans (rinsed) are a time saver. Then we need vegetable broth and a bay leaf. And finally, rosemary for that fresh herbal touch.
Heavy cream, parsley, and lemon juice finish it off.
step-by-step Simplicity
First, we're sautéing those aromatics for layers of flavor. Then comes the beans and broth, simmering away until cozy. A little trick? Partially mash the beans for a creamy texture.
Finally, stir in the cream and parsley. Season with lemon juice, and boom! It’s ready. Don’t forget the Parmesan, if you like.
Now, let's get to cooking! This white beans recipe is about to become a new favourite.
Let’s Get This Bean Party Started: Ingredients & Equipment for Our Creamy Tuscan White Bean Stew
Alright, lovelies! Before we dive headfirst into this amazing white beans recipe , let's get our ducks in a row.
Trust me, prepping your ingredients makes the whole cooking process a breeze. Think of it as your backstage pass to a stress free culinary performance.
This recipe is all about that Tuscan White Bean Soup With Spinach vibe, hearty and delicious, so good.
Main Ingredients: The Heart and Soul of the Stew
Here’s what you'll need. I have added the specific quantities in both US and metric units.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30 ml) Go for a good quality extra virgin if you can. It adds a lovely richness.
- Onion: 1 large , chopped (approx. 1 cup / 150g) Yellow or white onion will do the trick.
- Carrots: 2 , chopped (approx. 1 cup / 120g) Adds a touch of sweetness.
- Celery: 2 stalks , chopped (approx. 1 cup / 110g) A classic aromatic.
- Garlic: 4 cloves , minced Don’t be shy with the garlic!
- Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon – Adds that quintessential Italian flavour.
- Red Pepper Flakes: 1/2 teaspoon (adjust to taste) For a little kick. I like mine a bit spicy!
- Salt and Pepper: To taste Season generously, babes.
- Cannellini Beans: 2 (15-ounce) cans , drained and rinsed (approximately 850g total) These are our white bean recipe stars.
- Vegetable Broth: 4 cups (1 litre) Or chicken broth if you're feeling extra.
- Bay Leaf: 1 – Adds a subtle depth of flavour.
- Fresh Rosemary: 1 sprig – Such a wonderful aroma.
- Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup (120 ml) For that creamy dreamy texture.
- Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup , chopped Brightens everything up.
- Lemon Juice: To taste A squeeze makes all the difference.
- Parmesan Cheese: For serving (optional) Who am I kidding? It’s never optional.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: For serving (optional) A drizzle of the good stuff.
Quality indicators: For the olive oil, aim for extra virgin. For the beans, make sure they are not mushy in the can. It impacts the final "easy white bean recipe" result.
Seasoning Notes: It’s All About That Flavour
- Essential spice combo: Oregano and red pepper flakes are key for that Italian vibe.
- Flavour enhancers: Garlic and fresh rosemary are your best friends here.
- Quick subs: If you don’t have oregano, try Italian seasoning. A pinch of cayenne pepper can replace red pepper flakes.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple, Stupid!
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven: Essential.
- Cutting Board: Obviously.
- Chef's Knife: A good knife makes all the difference.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key.
Household alternatives: Don't have a Dutch oven? A large, heavy bottomed pot will work just fine. No fancy immersion blender? Use a regular blender in batches to partially puree the creamy white bean soup .
Seriously don't sweat it.
I remember once trying to make a similar soup with only a rusty butter knife. Honestly, prepping took me forever .
So, yeah, having the right tools is a game changer. You know?, I'm pretty sure there is a research somewhere about this and says "Having the right tools is a game changer".
Now, you are ready to prepare a Chicken White Bean Spinach Soup or even a Spinach Cannellini Beans Soup with this base.
Or if you feel fancy, you can try the Italian white bean soup adding some pancetta.
Let's Get Cooking: Creamy Tuscan White Bean Stew
Alright then, let’s get cracking! I've developed this white beans recipe outline with home cooks in mind. It is simple, straightforward, and, most importantly, delicious! You might be wondering if this will even come out well.
..Trust me, it will. This hearty and comforting Tuscan inspired white bean stew recipe is packed with flavour. It's also really easy to adjust and make your own.
Prep Like a Pro: Your Mise en Place
Honestly, the secret to stress free cooking is getting organised first. Chop your onion, carrots, and celery about 1 cup (150g) each.
Mince 4 cloves of garlic. Measure out your spices, like that 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes.
Drain and rinse 2 cans (15-ounce) of cannellini beans . Now you're ready to rock. It's all about having that essential mise en place.
Creamy Tuscan White Bean Stew: step-by-step
This is a very easy white bean recipe , I swear!
- Sauté the Goodness: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook until fragrant - it'll smell amazing!
- Beans and Broth: Toss in those drained cannellini beans, 4 cups of vegetable broth, 1 bay leaf, and 1 sprig of fresh rosemary.
- Simmer Time: Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This is where the magic happens.
- Blend it Up (A Little): Remove the bay leaf and rosemary. Use an immersion blender to partially puree the stew. Leave some beans whole, though, for a nice texture.
- Finishing Touches: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice to taste. Now, this is an amazing creamy white bean soup .
Pro Tips: Making it Your White Bean Recipe
The secret of a white bean stew recipe is to build flavour. Don't skip the aromatics! Onions, carrots, celery, and garlic form the base.
Also, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens everything up. And trust me, a day-old stew is even better because the flavours meld together.
This recipe can also be easily converted to a Vegetarian Soup Recipes , and Bean Soup Recipes
Also, if you like spicy dishes, just add chopped chili pepper for a kick. Want to make this a Chicken White Bean Spinach Soup ? Just add shredded chicken.
You can also throw in some chopped spinach at the very end for added nutrients and flavour. Or turn it to a Spinach Cannellini Beans Soup by adding spinach.
Enjoy this Italian white bean soup ! It’s like a warm hug in a bowl. Bon appétit!
Recipe Notes: Let's Get This Show on the Road!
Okay, so you're about to tackle this creamy Tuscan White Bean Stew . Honestly, it's so easy it's practically foolproof. But, here are some little nuggets of wisdom to make it even more amazing.
Think of them as cheat codes!
Serving Suggestions: Let's Plate This Beauty
Right, so you’ve got this gorgeous bowl of white bean stew recipe . Now what? First, think about plating! A simple bowl works.
But, a fancy one screams "I made an effort." A swirl of good olive oil and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
Chef's kiss!
For sides, crusty bread is a must! We are soaking up all that yummy broth! A simple green salad with a lemony dressing adds a nice freshness too.
Fancy a beverage? A light Italian red, like Chianti, pairs beautifully. I swear.
Storage Tips: Making it Last (if it Can!)
If you have leftovers somehow , get them in the fridge ASAP. A sealed container will keep it fresh for 3-4 days . This is a great vegetarian soup recipes
Freezing this bean soup recipes is totally doable. Let it cool completely before popping it in a freezer safe container or bag. It'll happily chill there for up to 3 months .
Reheating is easy peasy. Gently warm it on the stovetop or nuke it in the microwave. Stir occasionally to ensure it doesn't stick or explode!
Variations: Let's Get Creative
Wanna switch things up? Easy! For a vegan version, ditch the cream and use coconut cream or cashew cream instead. Boom! Vegan magic!
For a little extra goodness, stir in some chopped spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking. This turns it into something like Chicken White Bean Spinach Soup , but without the chicken.
Seasonal Ingredient Swaps? Oh my gosh, you can use butternut squash or pumpkin puree during the autumn months for a slight sweetness!
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in a Bowl
Okay, so without getting all sciencey, this stew is pretty darn good for you. It's packed with fiber, thanks to the cannellini beans recipes , and protein.
It also has vitamins and minerals.
Each serving clocks in at roughly 350 calories, 18g of protein, 18g of fat, 35g of carbs, 10g of fibre. The sodium will vary depending on the broth you choose.
This easy white bean recipe can also boost your gut health. The fibre in the beans keeps things moving, if you catch my drift. A real game changer.
So there you have it! You've got all the insider info to make this creamy white bean soup a roaring success.
Now go forth and cook! Don't be afraid to play around and make it your own. Remember, even if it's not perfect, it'll still be delicious.
Happy cooking, love! I think a great example is the Italian white bean soup !
Frequently Asked Questions
What are cannellini beans, and can I use a different type of bean for this white beans recipe?
Cannellini beans, also known as white kidney beans, are a creamy and mild flavored bean perfect for stews. Absolutely, you can substitute! Great Northern beans or navy beans work wonderfully in this white beans recipe and will give you a similar texture and taste.
Think of it like swapping Yorkshire puddings for popovers both delicious, just slightly different!
How can I make this creamy Tuscan white bean stew vegetarian or vegan?
Making this stew vegetarian is easy peasy! Just ensure you're using vegetable broth rather than chicken broth. For a completely vegan version, ditch the heavy cream and swap it out with coconut cream or cashew cream for a similar richness.
You won't miss a thing, I promise it's like a vegan full english, all the flavor without the meat!
How do I store leftover white bean stew, and how long will it last?
Like a fine wine, this stew often tastes even better the next day! Store your leftover white bean stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It'll keep for up to 3-4 days. Just give it a good reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
It's a great way to have a quick and comforting meal ready to go, just like a good shepherd's pie.
My stew is too thick/thin. How can I adjust the consistency?
If your stew is too thick, simply add more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. If it's too thin, simmer it uncovered for a bit longer to allow some of the liquid to evaporate, naturally thickening the white beans recipe.
Alternatively, you can mash a few more beans to add body, just like adding a cornstarch slurry to thicken gravy.
Can I make this white beans recipe in a slow cooker?
You absolutely can! Sauté the aromatics (onion, carrots, celery, garlic) on the stovetop first, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Give it a good stir, and partially blend it before serving, just like the original recipe.
It's a perfect way to come home to a ready-made, comforting meal, similar to prepping a pot roast.
Creamy Tuscan White Bean Stew
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 350 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 10g |
