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Hearty White Bean and Kale Slow Cooker Soup

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A simple, soulful slow cooker soup featuring white beans, kale, and a parmesan rind for deep, comforting richness. Perfect for cozy dinners and easy meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups dried cannellini or great northern beans, soaked overnight (or 4 cups canned, rinsed and drained)
  • 4 cups chopped kale, stems removed (curly or dinosaur kale)
  • 1 piece parmesan rind, about 2–3 inches long
  • 6 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium recommended)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, a pinch)

Instructions

  1. If using dried beans, soak them overnight in cold water for 8-12 hours. Drain and rinse before cooking. If using canned beans, rinse and drain well.
  2. Finely dice the onion, carrots, and celery. Remove kale stems and chop leaves into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic cloves.
  3. Optional: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Transfer sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker. Add soaked or canned beans, chopped kale, parmesan rind, vegetable broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Check occasionally if using canned beans to avoid overcooking.
  6. Remove parmesan rind and bay leaf. Season soup with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste. Stir well.
  7. Serve hot, optionally drizzled with extra virgin olive oil or sprinkled with grated parmesan. Pair with crusty bread or grilled cheese if desired.

Notes

Use parmesan rind for deep umami flavor. Sautéing vegetables before slow cooking adds richness. Season at the end to avoid over-salting. For creamier texture, blend a cup of soup and stir back in. To make vegan, omit parmesan rind and add nutritional yeast.

Nutrition

Keywords: white bean soup, kale soup, slow cooker soup, healthy soup, vegetarian soup, gluten-free soup, easy dinner, comfort food

Find it online: https://twirltaste.com/hearty-white-bean-and-kale-slow-cooker-soup-recipe-easy-and-delicious/