Classic Tuscan White Bean Soup
Hearty cannellini beans and greens slow-cooked for a velvety finish
Why This Recipe Works
Salt-soaking the beans overnight and finishing the soup in a low oven ensures tender, creamy beans that hold their shape. Adding the acidic tomatoes at the very end prevents the bean skins from toughening during the long simmer.
Instructions
Dissolve the soaking salt in 4 quarts of water in a large bowl. Add the beans and soak at room temperature for at least 8 hours, or up to 24 hours. Drain and rinse the beans well.
Adjust an oven rack to the lower-middle position and heat the oven to 250 degrees.
Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until the vegetables are softened and starting to brown, 6 to 10 minutes.
Stir in the garlic and minced mushrooms and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add the soaked beans, water, broth, and bay leaves. Bring to a simmer over high heat, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Cover the pot and transfer it to the oven. Bake until the beans are almost tender but still have a slight bite, about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes.
Remove the pot from the oven and stir in the kale and drained tomatoes. Return the pot to the oven, covered, and continue to bake until the beans and greens are fully tender, 20 to 30 minutes.
Remove the pot from the oven and submerge the rosemary sprig in the soup. Cover and let the soup stand for 15 minutes to allow the herb to steep.
Discard the rosemary sprig and bay leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve with a drizzle of olive oil.
π½οΈ Complete the Meal
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this recipe?
Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Freezes well for up to 3 months.
Can I make this ahead of time?
The soup can be made 1-2 days in advance. The flavors meld together beautifully as it sits.
What substitutions can I make?
- kale or collard greens: Swiss chard