Butter Bean and Sweetcorn Soup
Butter Bean and Sweetcorn Soup Recipe - UK
Introduction
Butter Bean and Sweetcorn Soup is a delicious and hearty soup that is perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines the creaminess of butter beans with the sweetness of sweetcorn, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish.
History
This recipe is a modern twist on traditional bean soups, incorporating sweetcorn for added texture and flavor. Butter beans, also known as lima beans, have been a staple in Southern cuisine for centuries, known for their creamy texture and mild flavor.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Melt the butter in a pan, then add the onion, celery, and garlic. Fry them gently for 5 minutes until they are softened.
- Add all the remaining ingredients to the pan, except for the cheese. Bring the mixture to a boil, then let it simmer gently for 10 minutes.
- Stir in 50 g (2 oz) of cheese and heat the mixture gently until the cheese is melted.
- Serve the dish garnished with the remaining cheese and thyme.
Variations
- Add diced potatoes or carrots for extra texture and flavor.
- Use different herbs, such as parsley or basil, for a unique twist.
- For a vegan version, omit the cheese and use plant-based milk and butter.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to sauté the onions, celery, and garlic until they are softened to release their flavors.
- For a smoother soup, you can blend the mixture with an immersion blender before adding the cheese.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more salt and pepper if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this soup with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. You can also top it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor.
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to simmer the soup gently to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Stir the soup occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use frozen sweetcorn instead of canned for a fresher taste.
- Substitute vegetable broth for the vegetable stock if needed.
Make Ahead Tips
This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish the soup with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or a drizzle of olive oil for a beautiful presentation. Serve it in individual bowls with a side of bread for a cozy and comforting meal.
Pairing Recommendations
This soup pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a light beer. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a sparkling water or herbal tea.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the soup on the stove or in the microwave until heated through before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of this soup contains approximately 300 calories, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal option.
Carbohydrates
This soup is a good source of carbohydrates, with the sweetcorn and butter beans providing a healthy dose of fiber and energy.
Fats
The butter in this recipe adds richness and flavor, while the cheese contributes to the overall fat content. However, this soup is still relatively low in fat compared to other creamy soups.
Proteins
Butter beans are a great source of plant-based protein, making this soup a satisfying and filling meal option.
Vitamins and minerals
This soup is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the sweetcorn and calcium from the cheese. The thyme also adds a boost of antioxidants and other beneficial nutrients.
Alergens
This recipe contains dairy in the form of butter and cheese, so it may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
Summary
Overall, this Butter Bean and Sweetcorn Soup is a nutritious and delicious option for a cozy night in. It is packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins, making it a well-rounded meal choice.
Summary
Butter Bean and Sweetcorn Soup is a delicious and nutritious option for a cozy night in. Packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins, this soup is a satisfying and flavorful meal choice. Serve it with a side of bread or a salad for a complete and comforting meal.
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a cool autumn day, the leaves were starting to turn shades of red and yellow, and I was in the mood for a warm and comforting soup. I rummaged through my old recipe box, a treasure trove of culinary delights collected over the years from friends, family, and cookbooks. As I flipped through the index cards and tattered scraps of paper, my eyes landed on a handwritten note that simply read: Butter Bean and Sweetcorn Soup.
I couldn't remember where I had gotten this recipe from, but the ingredients sounded delicious and the method seemed straightforward. I decided to give it a try, and I'm so glad I did. This soup has become a family favorite, a comforting dish that brings warmth to our hearts and bellies.
The first time I made Butter Bean and Sweetcorn Soup, I was a young bride just learning how to navigate my way around the kitchen. I had grown up watching my mother and grandmother cook, absorbing their skills and techniques like a sponge. But there's something special about creating a dish from scratch, from your own hands and heart.
I started by sautéing some onions and garlic in a large pot, the familiar sizzle and aroma filling the kitchen. Next, I added the butter beans and sweetcorn, letting them cook and mingle together, releasing their flavors and creating a rich and hearty base for the soup. I poured in some vegetable broth, a sprinkle of salt and pepper, and let the soup simmer on the stove, the fragrant steam rising and filling the air.
As the soup cooked, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. The simple act of creating something delicious and nourishing for my family brought me so much joy. And when I finally ladled the steaming soup into bowls, garnishing it with a swirl of cream and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, I knew I had found a recipe that would become a staple in our home.
Over the years, I've made Butter Bean and Sweetcorn Soup countless times, each batch a little different from the last. Sometimes I add a pinch of paprika for a smoky kick, or a handful of chopped bacon for extra richness. Other times, I toss in some diced potatoes or carrots for added texture and flavor. But no matter how I tweak the recipe, the essence of the dish remains the same – a warm and comforting bowl of goodness that never fails to satisfy.
I've shared this recipe with friends and neighbors, passing it on like a precious gift. And each time I make it, I think of all the moments and memories that have become intertwined with this simple soup – family dinners around the table, cozy nights by the fire, laughter and love shared with those closest to me.
As I sit here now, stirring a pot of Butter Bean and Sweetcorn Soup on the stove, I can't help but feel grateful for the journey that brought this recipe into my life. It's more than just a dish – it's a reminder of the joy and nourishment that cooking can bring, the connection and love that food can foster.
And as I take a spoonful of the warm and savory soup, savoring the flavors and memories that swirl together in each bite, I know that this recipe will always have a special place in my heart. It's not just a recipe – it's a story, a legacy, a part of who I am. And for that, I am truly thankful.
Categories
| Bean Soup Recipes | British Recipes | British Soups | Celery Recipes | Cheddar Recipes | Lima Bean Recipes | Milk And Cream Recipes | Onion Recipes | Sweetcorn Recipes | Thyme Recipes | Vegetable Stock And Broth Recipes |