Marcella Hazan White Bean Soup Recipe

A pot of white bean soup simmering on the stove is one of the most comforting things I can think of!

Marcella Hazan’s approach keeps it simple—no unnecessary extras, just slow-cooked beans and well-balanced seasonings.

I always cook the beans in plenty of water with a piece of onion and a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness.

Blending a small portion of the beans before serving thickens the soup naturally without needing cream or starch.

A light sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top right before serving adds just enough saltiness to round out the flavors.

This soup has a way of feeling both light and hearty at the same time, with every spoonful tasting like something carefully crafted!

How to Make Marcella Hazan White Bean Soup

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 2 cups Cooked White Beans
• 4 cups Vegetable Broth
• 2 tbsp Parsley (chopped)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant.

Step 2:

Stir in the cooked white beans, ensuring they are well coated with the garlic-infused oil.

Cook for a couple of minutes to combine the flavors.

Step 3:

Add the vegetable broth to the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Allow it to cook for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 4:

Use an immersion blender to create a smooth texture, leaving some beans whole for a hearty consistency.

You can skip this step if you prefer a chunkier soup.

Step 5:

Stir in the chopped parsley and let the soup simmer for an additional 2 minutes to infuse the herbal flavor.

Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Toothpaste Consistency:

If the soup is too thick for your taste, adding a little more broth can help achieve the consistency you desire.

Bean Alternatives:

For a creamier soup feel free to try adding a splash of cream or coconut milk for richness.

Parsley Perfection:

Be sure to add the parsley towards the end to maintain its fresh and vibrant flavor in the final dish.

Garlic Goodness:

If you love garlic, consider roasting it beforehand to add depth and sweetness to your soup.

Serving Style:

Pair the soup with a crusty piece of bread or a side salad.

What to Serve with Marcella Hazan White Bean Soup

Crusty Bread

There’s nothing like pairing a hearty soup with some fresh, crusty bread.

The bread’s texture complements the silky beans, allowing you to soak up every flavorful drop.

Consider preparing a simple garlic or rosemary-infused loaf for an extra flavor twist.

Fresh Salad

A crisp, fresh salad can be the perfect companion to this warm soup.

You can include ingredients like arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette.

The salad adds a refreshing contrast that pairs well with the rich garlic and olive oil notes in the soup.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasting seasonal vegetables can bring out their natural sweetness and add depth to your meal.

You might use carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes for a delicious side.

Drizzle them with a bit of balsamic glaze for a tangy finish, and you’re all set!

Grilled Halloumi

If you’re looking to try something different, grilled halloumi is a tasty option.

The cheese’s salty and savory flavors can be a surprising contrast to the soup’s mildness.

Just slice, grill until golden, and serve warm beside your soup.

Lemon Tahini Kale

For an unusual yet tasty side, you can try lemon tahini kale.

The creamy tahini sauce with a citrusy note can pair well with the soup’s garlic and beans.

Massage the kale with the dressing to soften it, and serve chilled for a refreshing side dish.

Variations and Substitutions

Using different types of beans can really change the flavor and texture of your soup!

Cannellini, Great Northern, or Navy beans are all great options.

You might even want to try a mix to give your soup an interesting twist!

Adding Protein

If you’d like some added protein, consider tossing in some cooked sausage or pancetta.

Chicken is another excellent choice to give your soup a hearty upgrade.

These additions not only make the soup filling, but also add savory depth.

Vegetarian Options

For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Boost the umami by adding a splash of soy sauce or a bit of white miso paste.

These alternatives maintain the richness without losing flavor.

Herbs and Spices

You can play around with herbs like rosemary or thyme for a more aromatic finish.

Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give your soup a fiery kick!

Using fresh or dried herbs can personalize this dish to your taste preferences.

How to Store Leftover Marcella Hazan White Bean Soup

Storing leftover white bean soup is quite simple, ensuring you enjoy every bite later.

Transfer the soup to an airtight container, leaving some space at the top to account for expansion if freezing.

Seal it properly to maintain freshness.

Refrigeration

If you plan to eat the soup within a few days, refrigerate it.

You can safely keep it in the fridge for up to three days.

Make sure your fridge is set to a cold enough temperature to keep everything fresh.

Freezing

Longer storage? No problem!

You can freeze the soup in a suitable container for up to two months.

When storing, always date the container so you know when it’s time to enjoy it again.

Portion Control

Consider dividing the soup into smaller portions before storing.

This approach makes it easy to reheat only what you need without defrosting the entire batch.

It’s a handy way to have just the right amount ready whenever you crave it!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Burning the Garlic

Be extra careful not to burn the garlic!

Burned garlic transforms the flavor, turning it bitter and overpowering, which is not what you want in this dish.

Stir it constantly over low heat until it’s just golden and fragrant.

Incorrect Bean Preparation

It’s crucial to prepare your beans properly.

Marcella’s technique involves using a brine instead of soaking, which enhances flavor and texture.

Skipping this step can result in bland beans, affecting the overall quality of the soup.

Wrong Liquid Levels

Be mindful of the amount of liquid you add.

Adding too much water or stock can make the soup overly watery and dilute the flavors.

Start with a smaller amount and adjust as needed while cooking, maintaining a creamy consistency.