Mom’s Butter Bean Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. This flavorful soup combines tender butter beans with aromatic vegetables and herbs, simmered in a savory chicken broth. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that brings warmth to your table.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 large carrot, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon dried marjoram
• 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 5 cups chicken broth
• 4 (14.5 ounce) cans butter beans, drained
• 1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large stock pot over medium-high heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery; cook and stir until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic, marjoram, parsley, and thyme; cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes more.
3. Stir in chicken broth, butter beans, vinegar, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
4. Ladle into bowls and serve.

Nutritional Information

Per serving:

• Calories: 300
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Dietary Fiber: 12g
• Sugars: 3g
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Potassium: 700mg

The History of Butter Bean Soup

Butter beans, also known as lima beans, have been a staple in many cultures worldwide. Their name comes from their creamy, buttery texture, which makes them perfect for soups and stews. While the exact origin of butter bean soup is difficult to trace, variations of this dish can be found in Southern American, Mediterranean, and even European cuisines.

In the United States, butter beans are commonly used in Southern cooking, where they are slow-cooked with ham hocks, bacon, or smoked meats. In Mediterranean cuisine, butter beans are often paired with tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs, creating a lighter yet equally delicious dish. This recipe, however, takes a more classic homemade approach, focusing on simple ingredients, hearty flavors, and easy preparation.

What Makes This Butter Bean Soup Special?

There are many reasons why this butter bean soup stands out from other legume-based soups:

• Creamy and hearty texture – The natural creaminess of butter beans makes this soup rich and satisfying without the need for heavy creams.
• Nutrient-rich and high in fiber – Butter beans are an excellent source of fiber, protein, and essential vitamins, making this soup a healthy choice.
• Quick and easy to prepare – Unlike dried beans, canned butter beans allow for fast cooking times while still delivering incredible flavor.
• Perfect for meal prep – This soup stores well, making it great for leftovers or batch cooking.
• Versatile and customizable – You can easily add different vegetables, meats, or seasonings to tailor the recipe to your preferences.

Health Benefits of Butter Beans

Butter beans are a powerhouse of nutrition, making them a fantastic ingredient for a balanced and healthy diet. Some of the key health benefits include:

• Rich in protein – Butter beans are an excellent plant-based source of protein, making them ideal for vegetarians and those looking to reduce meat consumption.
• High in fiber – The fiber content helps promote digestive health, prevents constipation, and keeps you feeling full longer.
• Supports heart health – The combination of fiber, potassium, and low sodium helps maintain healthy blood pressure and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
• Good source of iron – Butter beans contain iron, which is essential for preventing anemia and maintaining energy levels.
• Lowers cholesterol – Regular consumption of beans can help lower LDL cholesterol levels, supporting overall heart health.

For those looking to enhance the nutritional value, consider adding more leafy greens, tomatoes, or carrots to the soup for extra vitamins and antioxidants.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Butter Bean Soup

Butter Bean Soup is incredibly versatile and pairs well with many different side dishes. Here are some of the best options:

• Crusty bread – A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup.
• Cornbread – A Southern classic that complements the creamy texture of the beans.
• Steamed rice – Serving the soup over white or brown rice makes for a more filling meal.
• Garlic butter naan – Adds a deliciously rich and flavorful touch to the meal.
• Fresh green salad – A simple salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
• Roasted vegetables – Serve the soup with a side of roasted carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.

Customizing Mom’s Butter Bean Soup

One of the best things about this soup is that it’s highly customizable. Here are some variations you can try:

• Vegetarian/vegan version – Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and add more vegetables like zucchini, tomatoes, or bell peppers.
• Smoky and savory twist – Add smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke for a deeper, smoky flavor.
• Spicy kick – Add chopped jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce to spice things up.
• Meaty version – If you prefer extra protein, add diced ham, bacon, sausage, or shredded chicken to the soup.
• Creamier texture – Blend half of the soup for a creamier consistency while still keeping some whole butter beans for texture.

These variations make the soup adaptable to different dietary preferences and flavor profiles, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.

How to Store and Reheat Butter Bean Soup

This soup is perfect for meal prep and can be stored easily for future meals. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers. Allow the soup to cool before freezing.
• Reheating: Warm the soup in a pot over medium heat on the stove or microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. If it thickens too much, add a little extra broth or water.

Why You Should Try Mom’s Butter Bean Soup

If you’re looking for a warm, comforting, and nutritious meal, this butter bean soup is a must-try. It’s:

• Easy to make with minimal ingredients and effort.
• Packed with flavor from fresh vegetables, herbs, and a rich broth.
• Nutritious and filling without being too heavy.
• Budget-friendly and perfect for feeding a family.
• Great for meal prepping, as it stores well and tastes even better the next day.

This soup is a true family favorite, bringing back memories of homemade meals made with love. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced home chef, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.

Conclusion

Mom’s Butter Bean Soup is more than just a simple dish—it’s a comforting, nourishing meal that warms the heart and soul. Its wholesome ingredients, rich flavors, and easy preparation make it a go-to recipe for any occasion.