Description
A hearty and comforting Vegan White Bean Soup inspired by traditional Serbian “pasulj.” This plant-based version is packed with smoky flavors, nutritious beans, and aromatic spices—perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
- White beans (such as cannellini or navy beans)
- Onion
- Carrots
- Celery
- Garlic
- Red bell pepper
- Tomato paste
- Bay leaves
- Smoked paprika
- Ground black pepper
- Salt
- Dried thyme
- Dried marjoram
- Vegetable broth or water
- Olive oil
- Flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Beans: If using dried beans, soak them overnight in plenty of water. Drain and rinse before cooking. If using canned beans, simply drain and rinse.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, dried thyme, marjoram, and black pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Incorporate Tomato Paste: Add the tomato paste and mix well to coat the vegetables. Cook for 2-3 minutes to develop depth in flavor.
- Simmer the Soup: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the soaked beans (or canned beans). Drop in the bay leaves and bring the soup to a gentle boil.
- Cook Until Tender: Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours if using dried beans, or about 30 minutes if using canned beans.
- Thicken the Soup (Optional): To achieve a slightly thicker consistency, mix a tablespoon of flour with a bit of water and stir it into the soup.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove bay leaves, ladle into bowls, and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Add Smoked Tofu or Tempeh – For extra protein and a smoky depth.
- Include Potatoes – Diced potatoes can make the soup even heartier.
- Spice It Up – A dash of chili flakes or a chopped chili pepper adds heat.
- Lemon Juice Finish – A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens up the flavors.
- Herb Variation – Swap thyme and marjoram with oregano or basil for a different herbal profile.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus overnight soaking for dried beans)
- Cook Time: 1-1.5 hours (depending on bean type)
- Category: Soup, Vegan, Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: serbian
Keywords: vegan white bean soup, Serbian bean soup, plant-based pasulj, hearty vegan soup, smoky bean soup