Smoky White Bean and Kale Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish packed with tender white beans, vibrant kale, and a smoky kick from smoked paprika. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or meal prep, this soup is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and oh-so-delicious!
2(15-ounce)cans white beans (such as Great Northern or Cannellini), drained and rinsed
2tbspolive oil
1largeyellow onion, diced
2medium - largecarrots, peeled, sliced lengthwise, and cut into half moons
2clovesgarlic, minced
1(14.5-ounce)can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
1tspdried oregano
¼-½tspsmoked paprika
1bay leaf
¾tspsalt, adjust to taste
½tspblack pepper, adjust to taste
4cupschopped kale (remove stems if not using pre-washed and chopped)
Juice of 1 lemon
Optional garnish: Chopped parsley or cilantro
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Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sliced carrots. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant.
Add the Garlic and Seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic, 1 tsp dried oregano, and ¼-½ tsp smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
Incorporate the Base Ingredients: Pour in 6 cups vegetable broth, can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes, and add the bay leaf. Stir to combine.
Add the White Beans and Simmer: Add 2 cans of drained and rinsed white beans to the pot. Season with ¾ tsp salt and ¼ tsp black pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 25–30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Add the Kale: Stir in 4 cups chopped kale. Let it cook for an additional 5–7 minutes, until the kale is wilted and tender.
Finish with Lemon Juice: Remove the bay leaf and stir in the juice of 1 lemon. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or smoked paprika, if desired.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro. Serve warm with crusty bread or your favorite side.
Notes
StorageStore leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.FreezingThis soup freezes beautifully! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.CustomizationsFor extra depth, stir in a diced chipotle in adobo pepper or a splash of liquid smoke. To make it heartier, add cooked plant-based sausage or smoked tofu.
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