Looking for a comforting and flavorful soup that comes together in mere minutes? Portuguese White Bean Soup, or Sopa de Feijão Branco, is your answer!

This recipe utilizes the convenience of canned beans to deliver a hearty and nutritious meal perfect for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor.

10-Minute Portuguese White Bean Soup: A Quick & Hearty Recipe

Portuguese cuisine, renowned for its fresh seafood and robust flavors, also boasts a wonderful array of soups. While many Portuguese soups are slow-cooked affairs, brimming with various meats and vegetables, sometimes you need comfort fast. This recipe emphasizes convenience without sacrificing genuine taste.

Ingredients

• White beans (canned) – 500g
• Water – as required
• Olive oil – 3 tbsp
• Onion – 1 medium
• Garlic cloves – 3
• Carrots – 2 medium
• Meat stock (optional) – ½ cube
• Spinach leaves – 100g
• Pata (orzo) – 2 tbsp
• Salt to taste (be mindful of salt content in stock)

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and grated carrots to the pot and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until fragrant and slightly softened.
3. Pour in the canned white beans (undrained) and add enough water to cover the beans by about an inch.
4. If using, crumble in the meat stock cube.
5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
6. Add the orzo and spinach leaves. Continue to simmer for another 3-5 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked and the spinach has wilted.
7. Season with salt to taste. Remember to taste the soup first, especially if you’ve used stock, as it may already be salted!
8. Serve hot and enjoy! A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil right before serving adds a beautiful aroma and flavor.

Tips and Variations

For a smoother soup: You can partially blend the soup with an immersion blender for a creamier texture. Remember to be careful when blending hot liquids!

Add some spice: A pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of chili flakes can add a lovely warmth to the soup.

Extra veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as chopped celery or kale.

Protein boost: Add cooked chorizo or shredded chicken for a more substantial meal.

This 10-minute Portuguese White Bean Soup proves that delicious, comforting food doesn’t require hours in the kitchen . It’s a perfect weeknight meal, and easily customizable to your tastes. So go ahead, give it a try and enjoy a taste of Portugal!