Cuban White Bean Soup is the ultimate comfort food, blending warm spices and creamy white beans to create a filling and satisfying meal. This simple yet flavorful soup is a great option for anyone craving something hearty yet healthy, especially on a chilly day. The addition of fresh lime juice and cilantro provides a burst of brightness that balances the richness of the soup. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or preparing a meal for the whole family, this Cuban-inspired dish is perfect for all occasions. You can easily make it vegan or vegetarian by omitting the meat, and it’s sure to be loved by everyone around the table. Its simplicity and depth of flavor make it a timeless classic in any kitchen.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 (15-ounce) can of white beans (such as cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup cooked ham or smoked sausage, diced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, cumin, oregano, paprika, thyme, and black pepper, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes to bring out the spices’ flavors.
- Add the vegetable broth, white beans, bay leaf, and cooked ham or sausage (if using). Stir well and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Remove the bay leaf and stir in the fresh lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 180 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Cuban White Bean Soup is a delicious, hearty dish that offers both comfort and nourishment. It’s a perfect example of Cuban cuisine, which is known for its bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and vibrant combinations. This soup is not only flavorful but also simple to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even special gatherings. The use of white beans, which are a staple in Cuban cooking, gives this dish a creamy texture while providing a great source of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.
Background of the Recipe
White bean soup is a traditional Cuban dish that has roots in the Caribbean’s rich cultural heritage. Over time, this dish has evolved into a comfort food that is often made with whatever ingredients are available in the kitchen. The classic Cuban version uses a combination of savory herbs and spices like cumin, oregano, and paprika to create depth of flavor. The soup is typically served with a squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro to add a touch of brightness and freshness. Beans have long been a staple in Cuban diets, providing an affordable and nutritious source of protein and fiber. This recipe embodies the heart of Cuban cooking—simple, hearty ingredients cooked with love to create a flavorful meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family.
Health Benefits
Cuban White Bean Soup is not only delicious, but it’s also packed with health benefits. The white beans are the star of the dish, offering a high protein content that helps with muscle repair and maintenance. They are also rich in fiber, which supports digestive health, stabilizes blood sugar, and aids in weight management. Additionally, the use of fresh vegetables like bell peppers and onions in this recipe boosts its vitamin and mineral content. Bell peppers are high in vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system and skin. Onions are a great source of antioxidants that help combat inflammation and support heart health. Cuban White Bean Soup is also a fantastic option for those seeking plant-based meals. By using vegetable broth instead of meat-based broth, this soup becomes a vegan-friendly option that still provides all the nutritional benefits of a meatless meal. It’s perfect for those following a vegan or vegetarian diet, as it delivers a rich, satisfying meal without any animal products. The optional addition of smoked sausage or ham adds an extra layer of flavor to the soup, but the dish is just as delicious without it. If you’re looking to keep it plant-based, simply skip the meat and use vegetable broth to maintain the integrity of the dish while keeping it vegan.
Why This Recipe is the Best
This Cuban White Bean Soup stands out for several reasons, but one of the key factors is its versatility. The recipe is simple enough to customize based on your dietary preferences, and you can easily swap out ingredients or add more based on what you have in your pantry. Whether you’re a meat-eater or following a vegetarian lifestyle, this soup adapts to your needs without compromising on flavor.
Another reason why this recipe is so loved is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, this dish can be made quickly and easily without any complicated steps. You don’t need a long list of hard-to-find ingredients, and the recipe doesn’t require hours of preparation. It’s a no-fuss, flavorful dish that’s perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs. The soup is also incredibly filling. Thanks to the combination of beans, vegetables, and spices, each bowl offers a satisfying and hearty meal. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch or a filling dinner, this Cuban White Bean Soup will hit the spot. The warmth and depth of the flavors make it comforting, while the spices give it an exciting edge that elevates the dish beyond a typical bean soup.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers
One of the best things about this Cuban White Bean Soup is that it stores incredibly well, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days, allowing the flavors to develop even further. It’s a great option for those busy weeks when you don’t have time to cook every day but still want a healthy, home-cooked meal. This soup also freezes well, so you can make extra portions and store them for future meals. Just portion out the soup into airtight containers and freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat and serve.
Incorporating Cuban Cuisine into Your Diet
Incorporating Cuban White Bean Soup into your regular meal rotation is an excellent way to add diversity to your diet. Cuban cuisine combines influences from African, Spanish, and Caribbean cooking, which means this dish offers a unique blend of flavors. The spices used in Cuban cooking—such as cumin, oregano, and paprika—create a mouthwatering combination that will excite your taste buds without overwhelming them. For those new to Cuban food, this soup is a great introduction. It’s easy to prepare, flavorful, and adaptable to a variety of dietary needs. By making this dish at home, you can bring a taste of Cuba to your table and explore the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Conclusion
Cuban White Bean Soup is a healthy, satisfying, and versatile dish that should have a place in every home kitchen. Whether you enjoy it on a chilly evening or make it as part of your weekly meal prep, this recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your meal rotation. The combination of beans, vegetables, and spices creates a rich and nourishing soup that is perfect for all occasions. Not only is it quick and easy to prepare, but it also provides numerous health benefits, making it the ideal choice for anyone looking for a flavorful, plant-based meal. By adding this recipe to your weekly meal plan, you’re not only enjoying a comforting dish, but you’re also supporting your overall health with nutritious ingredients. From its Cuban roots to its global appeal, Cuban White Bean Soup is a dish that will continue to satisfy your cravings for years to come.
