Description
This simple and hearty white beans recipe features tender cannellini or great northern beans cooked to perfection on the stovetop with aromatic herbs, garlic, and onions. Soaked overnight and simmered slowly in vegetable broth, these beans make a nutritious, flavorful side dish or a versatile base for soups, salads, and bowls. A splash of lemon juice brightens the dish, and optional mashing adds a creamy texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Beans and Liquids
- 1 pound dried white beans such as cannellini or great northern
- 8 cups water for soaking
- 6 cups low sodium vegetable broth or water for cooking
Seasonings and Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Beans: Rinse the dried beans thoroughly under cold water, removing any debris or damaged beans. Place them in a large bowl and cover with 8 cups of water. Allow the beans to soak overnight or for at least 8 hours to soften and reduce cooking time. After soaking, drain and rinse the beans well.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until translucent and softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Cook the Beans: Add the soaked and drained beans to the pot along with the vegetable broth or water. Toss in the bay leaf, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer gently for 60 to 90 minutes, stirring occasionally. Check periodically and add more water if necessary to ensure the beans remain submerged and cook evenly.
- Season and Finish: Once the beans are tender and creamy, remove the bay leaf from the pot. Stir in salt, black pepper, and lemon juice if using. Adjust seasoning to taste. The lemon juice adds a fresh brightness that complements the earthiness of the beans.
- Serve: Serve the white beans warm either as a flavorful side dish or incorporate them into soups, salads, or grain bowls. For a creamier texture, mash a portion of the beans before serving to create a rustic purée.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, mash a small portion of the beans before serving.
- To save time, substitute dried beans with 3 cans of drained and rinsed white beans, then simmer for only 20 minutes.
- Enhance flavor by adding fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary during cooking or as garnish.
- Use low sodium vegetable broth to better control the salt content.
- Storing leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator will keep them fresh for up to 4 days. The beans also freeze well.
