As the leaves begin to change and the first chill of autumn sets in, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of comfort to brighten the day. I discovered the art of crafting a rich, Mediterranean White Bean Soup with Harissa & Tahini during a particularly busy week when fast food lost its charm. The moment I took that first spoonful, the creamy, velvety broth infused with the earthy spice of harissa and the nutty goodness of tahini enveloped me in a cozy embrace.
This vegan delight not only nourishes the body but elevates the palate with vibrant kale and a squeeze of fresh lemon, creating a symphony of flavors that dances on your taste buds. It’s a fantastic way to make use of pantry staples while making a meal that feels luxurious yet effortless. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress friends, this soup ticks all the boxes. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make this heartwarming bowl of goodness together!
Why is Mediterranean White Bean Soup with Harissa & Tahini a Must-Try?
Comforting, Creamy Texture: The combination of tahini and beans creates a luxuriously smooth foundation that will warm your soul.
Flavor Explosion: With harissa adding just the right amount of heat, each spoonful is a delightful dance of spices.
Nutritious and Wholesome: Packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins, this dish offers a healthy option for any meal.
Quick and Simple: Perfect for those busy evenings, it comes together in less than an hour, letting you enjoy homemade goodness without fuss.
Versatile Meal: Customize with your favorite leafy greens or serve alongside crusty bread for the complete Mediterranean experience.
Mediterranean White Bean Soup Ingredients
• A delightful medley of wholesome flavors awaits!
For the Soup
- Cooked White Beans – Provide protein and creaminess; substitute with chickpeas if desired.
- Kale Leaves – Add nutrition and a slight bitterness; spinach can be used instead.
- Onion – Base flavor that adds sweetness when sautéed.
- Bell Pepper – Contributes sweetness and color; substitute with sweet mini peppers if needed.
- Carrot – Offers sweetness and texture; use any other root vegetable like parsnip if unavailable.
- Olive Oil – Used for sautéing; enhances flavor; any vegetable oil can be substituted.
- Garlic – Adds aromatic flavor; minced for best results.
- Thyme – Infuses an herby note; omit or use dried thyme as a substitute.
- Vegetable Broth – Base of the soup, providing depth; water can be used in a pinch.
- Parsley Leaves – Fresh garnish that brightens the dish; cilantro may be used as an alternative.
For the Creamy Mixture
- Tahini – Creates a creamy texture and unique taste; use smooth, high-quality tahini for best results.
- Lemon Juice – Adds acidity and brightness; lime juice can be used instead.
- Water – Adjusts consistency; use as needed.
- Harissa – Adds heat and flavor depth; substitute with another hot sauce if unavailable.
- Salt – Enhances overall flavor; adjust to taste.
- Cracked Black Pepper – Provides spice; use fresh for best flavor.
This Mediterranean White Bean Soup with Harissa & Tahini is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with vibrant flavors and nourishing ingredients!
How to Make Mediterranean White Bean Soup with Harissa & Tahini
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and bell pepper. Sauté until the onion is transparent, about 5-7 minutes.
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Add Garlic: Toss in the minced garlic and continue sautéing for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant. The kitchen should be filled with a delightful aroma!
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Combine Beans and Broth: Stir in the cooked white beans and vegetable broth. Make sure the beans are fully submerged in the broth, adding more if necessary.
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Simmer Beans: Allow the mixture to simmer, checking the liquid levels occasionally. If you used soaked beans, this will take around 45 minutes until they’re tender.
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Whisk Creamy Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, water, and harissa until smooth and creamy. This mixture adds a beautiful texture to the soup.
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Optional Blending: For an extra creamy texture, blend 3 cups of the soup until smooth. Return it to the pot and stir gently.
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Add Greens and Thyme: Add the kale, thyme sprigs, and tahini mixture to the soup. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes until everything is fragrant and the kale is tender.
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Final Touches: Stir in fresh parsley and adjust any additional seasonings to taste. Don’t forget to remove the thyme sprigs before serving!
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Serve with Love: Drizzle with mixed olive oil and harissa, and sprinkle with extra herbs as desired. A warm, inviting bowl is ready to enjoy!
Optional: Serve with crusty bread for the perfect meal!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Mediterranean White Bean Soup with Harissa & Tahini are perfect for meal prep! You can chop and sauté the onion, carrots, and bell pepper up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. The cooked white beans can also be prepared ahead and stored for up to 5 days. When ready to serve, combine these prepped components with the vegetable broth and follow the original cooking instructions. For an extra creamy texture, blend part of the soup right before adding the kale and tahini mixture, ensuring your bowl is just as delicious as when freshly made. Enjoy cozy, homemade comfort on busy weeknights with minimal fuss!
How to Store and Freeze Mediterranean White Bean Soup with Harissa & Tahini
Fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 5 days, ensuring it cools completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Leave space at the top for expansion during freezing.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of water if the soup thickens too much.
Leftovers: This delicious Mediterranean White Bean Soup with Harissa & Tahini is perfect for meal prepping—enjoy it throughout the week!
Expert Tips for Mediterranean White Bean Soup
- Quality Counts: Use high-quality tahini for the best creaminess and flavor; avoid cheap alternatives as they can be bitter.
- Spice Control: Adjust harissa based on your heat tolerance; start with less and add more gradually to avoid overwhelming flavors.
- Texture Variation: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked pasta or using a mix of white beans and chickpeas in your Mediterranean White Bean Soup.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with extra fresh parsley or cilantro just before serving for added brightness and flavor; it makes a big difference!
- Storage Savvy: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days; reheat gently to preserve the soup’s creamy texture.
What to Serve with Mediterranean White Bean Soup with Harissa & Tahini?
As you prepare to savor this delightful soup, consider these enticing pairings that will elevate your meal experience.
- Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup, soaking up every drop of flavor.
- Mediterranean Salad: Fresh greens tossed with olives, cucumbers, and tomatoes create a vibrant contrast that refreshes the palate.
- Garlicky Roasted Vegetables: The earthy sweetness of roasted carrots and bell peppers enhances the soup’s depth, creating a hearty meal.
- Quinoa Tabbouleh: Light yet hearty, this grain salad with parsley and lemon adds a fresh burst that complements the soup perfectly.
- Hummus Platter: A vibrant spread of hummus with assorted veggies for dipping provides a satisfying crunch alongside the creamy soup.
- Lemon Ginger Tea: A soothing cup of lemon ginger tea balances the warmth of the soup with bright citrus notes, making for a comforting drink.
- Baklava: A sweet finish of flaky baklava brings a delightful contrast to the savory charms of the soup, creating a well-rounded meal.
Mediterranean White Bean Soup Variations
Feel free to personalize this delightful soup with your favorite ingredients and flavors!
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Chickpea Swap: Substitute cooked white beans with chickpeas for a different texture and taste. Both beans bring their unique charm to the dish.
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Leafy Greens: Replace kale with spinach or Swiss chard; each offers a fresh twist on the classic flavor and nutrition.
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Add Quinoa: Toss in cooked quinoa for a protein boost; it adds a pleasant chewiness that’s sure to satisfy.
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Pasta Addition: For a heartier soup, mix in small pasta; this twist makes it feel more like a comforting minestrone.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with herbs like oregano or basil in place of thyme; they elevate the Mediterranean flair.
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Extra Spice: Crank up the heat by adding fresh jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the mix.
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Coconut Cream: Stir in a splash of coconut cream for a richer, creamier soup; it adds an exotic twist that balances the heat beautifully.
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Smoky Flavor: Add a dash of smoked paprika or chipotle for a subtle smokiness; this layer of flavor enhances the overall experience.
Each variation invites creativity while maintaining the comforting essence of this Mediterranean treasure!
Mediterranean White Bean Soup with Harissa & Tahini Recipe FAQs
What type of beans should I use for this soup?
Absolutely! While cooked white beans are recommended for their creamy texture, you can easily substitute them with chickpeas if you prefer. Both options provide protein and add a delightful nuttiness to the dish!
How should I store leftover soup?
To safely store your Mediterranean White Bean Soup with Harissa & Tahini, place it in an airtight container once it has cooled completely. It can be refrigerated for up to 5 days. Just ensure the container is sealed to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze the soup?
Very! You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. To do this, transfer the cooled soup into airtight containers or freezer bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion during freezing. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If you find the soup is too thick after reheating, no worries! Simply add a splash of water or vegetable broth, stirring until you reach your desired consistency. This will keep the flavors intact while providing the right texture!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Certainly! This dish is vegan and gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for dietary restrictions. However, always confirm that your tahini, vegetable broth, and harissa are certified gluten-free if necessary. If serving to pets, avoid any seasonings like garlic or onion, which can be harmful to them.
Why is my soup not as creamy as expected?
If your Mediterranean White Bean Soup lacks creaminess, it could be due to the tahini quality. Use high-quality tahini, as cheaper brands can be overly bitter and less creamy. You could also blend a portion of the soup for a velvety finish, increasing that luxurious texture we all crave!
Creamy Mediterranean White Bean Soup with Harissa & Tahini Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and bell pepper. Sauté until the onion is transparent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Toss in the minced garlic and continue sautéing for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the cooked white beans and vegetable broth, making sure the beans are fully submerged.
- Allow the mixture to simmer, checking the liquid levels occasionally. If you used soaked beans, this will take around 45 minutes until they’re tender.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, water, and harissa until smooth and creamy.
- For an extra creamy texture, blend 3 cups of the soup until smooth. Return it to the pot and stir gently.
- Add the kale, thyme sprigs, and tahini mixture to the soup. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes until everything is fragrant and the kale is tender.
- Stir in fresh parsley and adjust any additional seasonings to taste. Remove the thyme sprigs before serving.
- Drizzle with mixed olive oil and harissa, and sprinkle with extra herbs as desired. Serve warm.