When the chilly weather sets in, few meals provide the warmth and comfort of a hearty soup. Enter the Italian bean soup, a seasonal dish that not only warms the soul but also caters to family meals without breaking the bank. Featuring robust flavours and wholesome ingredients, this affordable food option can be crafted for under £2 per serving, making it a sensible choice for any household. Ideal for autumn or winter, this comfort food is perfect for bustling weeknights or lazy Sundays, and is sure to delight both adults and children.
Budget-Friendly Ingredients for Italian Bean Soup
Creating this delicious soup begins with easily accessible ingredients. The star of the dish, cannellini beans, provide a nutritious base. Combine these with classic vegetables such as onions, carrots, and celery, along with flavourful elements like smoked pancetta and herbs. Not only do these components enhance the taste, but they also contribute to the overall nutritional profile of the meal.
Essential Ingredients
- ½ tbsp olive oil, plus more for serving
- 160g smoked cubetti di pancetta
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery sticks, chopped
- 2 large carrots, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 tbsp thyme, chopped
- 950ml chicken stock (gluten-free if needed)
- 3 x 400g tins of cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 200g cavolo nero or kale, chopped
- 150g frozen peas
- Zest and juice of ½ lemon
This affordable recipe is not only easy on the wallet, but is also packed with wholesome nutrition, making it perfect for a family dinner that satisfies.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preparing this bean soup is a straightforward process that even novice cooks can master. Follow these simple steps to create a nourishing dish that promises to bring everyone to the table.
Cooking Process
- In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil and fry the pancetta until crisp. Remove and set aside.
- Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots to the same pan and sauté for 8-10 minutes until soft. Incorporate the garlic and thyme and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, ensuring they don’t colour.
- Pour in the chicken stock and cannellini beans, letting the mixture simmer for 15 minutes.
- Blend approximately half of the soup until smooth, then return to the pan, stirring in the reserved pancetta.
- Finally, add the cavolo nero and peas, cooking for five minutes until the greens are wilted. Finish with lemon juice and zest, adjusting seasoning as preferred.
Serve in bowls with a drizzle of olive oil and perhaps some grated Parmesan on top, alongside crusty bread for dipping. This cheap recipe is not only straightforward, but it also delivers on flavour and satisfaction.
Why This Soup is Perfect for Any Occasion
This Italian bean soup stands out as the ideal dish for those chilly evenings or when hosting friends and family. Its rich, hearty texture coupled with the delightful combination of flavours offers a comforting experience that many seek in home-cooked meals. Furthermore, this recipe is versatile; feel free to adapt it to include seasonal vegetables or spices that cater to your family’s preferences.
In today’s fast-paced world, healthy and budget-conscious cooking doesn’t have to be a challenge. This Italian bean soup exemplifies how nutritious, delicious meals can be achieved with simple ingredients at an affordable price, making it a go-to dish for any home cook looking to provide their family with hearty and nutritious meals.
