Description
This hearty and healthy white beans recipe features tender cannellini or navy beans slow-simmered in a flavorful broth with aromatic garlic, onion, and herbs. Perfect as a comforting side dish or a plant-based protein addition to your Mediterranean-inspired meals, these beans are easy to prepare and naturally gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian-friendly.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups dried white beans (cannellini or navy beans), rinsed and picked over
- 6 cups water or low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Optional Ingredients
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Soak Beans: Place the rinsed white beans in a large bowl and cover them with plenty of water. Allow them to soak for at least 8 hours or overnight to soften. Then drain and rinse the beans thoroughly.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add Beans and Liquids: Stir in the soaked beans along with the 6 cups of water or low-sodium broth. Add the bay leaf, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Optional: include crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Simmer Beans: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the beans simmer gently for 60 to 90 minutes, stirring occasionally. Keep an eye on the liquid level and add more if necessary to keep the beans just covered.
- Finish and Serve: Once the beans are tender and creamy, remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving if desired.
Notes
- For a quicker preparation, use canned white beans and reduce cooking time to about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add diced carrots or celery along with the onion for additional flavor and texture.
- Pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or as a side dish to roasted meats or vegetables.
