Cuban White Bean Soup

The warmth of Cuban flavors comes to life in this nourishing white bean soup, infused with garlic, cumin, oregano, and a touch of citrus. It’s the perfect balance of rich, earthy beans and bright, zesty herbs, simmered into a cozy bowl that’s as satisfying as it is wholesome. This recipe is ideal for anyone looking for a simple, flavorful dish that’s vegetarian, dairy-free, and gluten-free. Serve it as a light lunch, a hearty dinner, or a first course at a festive gathering. Whether you’re honoring your roots or exploring Cuban cuisine for the first time, this soup is a delicious way to do it.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 1 green bell pepper, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cans (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed

• 4 cups vegetable broth

• 1 bay leaf

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional garnish)

Directions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

2. Add diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes, or until softened.

3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Add white beans, vegetable broth, bay leaf, oregano, cumin, and smoked paprika.

5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes.

6. Remove bay leaf and blend half the soup using an immersion blender for a creamier texture (optional).

7. Stir in lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.

8. Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 210 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

A Taste of Cuba in Every Spoonful

Cuban White Bean Soup is more than just a comforting meal it’s a celebration of Cuban culinary heritage and the island’s tradition of creating hearty, flavorful meals from simple, wholesome ingredients. Known for its warm, rich flavors and satisfying textures, this dish has become a staple not only in Cuban households but also in kitchens around the world where vibrant, Latin-inspired cuisine is embraced.

This soup blends native Cuban ingredients and cooking techniques with influences from Spanish, African, and Caribbean cultures. Its signature combination of white beans, vegetables, and aromatic spices offers a reflection of Cuba’s melting pot of culinary traditions. The result is a soup that nourishes the body and soul.

Cultural and Historical Roots

White bean soup in Cuban cuisine often made with navy beans or great northern beans is a descendant of Spanish stews brought by colonists. Beans were already a dietary staple in the Caribbean and Latin America due to their high protein content and accessibility. Over time, Cuban cooks adapted these recipes using local herbs, tropical vegetables, and their signature sofrito a sautéed blend of onion, garlic, peppers, and spices that forms the flavor base of many Cuban dishes.

This dish exemplifies the Cuban philosophy of “making the most of what you have.” It’s traditionally cooked in large batches for families, making it ideal for gatherings or even as a mainstay in humble weekday meals. While meat is often included in traditional recipes, modern versions, like the one you’re featuring, take a plant-based approach retaining all the flavor while being accessible to vegan and vegetarian diets.

The Nutritional Power of White Beans

White beans are nutritional powerhouses. High in fiber, protein, and essential minerals such as iron, magnesium, and potassium, they form the backbone of this dish’s health benefits. One serving of Cuban White Bean Soup offers lasting satiety, supporting digestive health, stable blood sugar levels, and heart function.

For plant-based eaters or those reducing meat intake, white beans are a valuable protein source. They also contribute complex carbohydrates, which release energy slowly making this soup a fantastic meal for sustained energy, whether for work, fitness recovery, or active lifestyles.

The addition of vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and tomatoes enhances the soup’s vitamin and antioxidant profile. Carrots bring beta-carotene, potatoes add potassium and Vitamin C, while tomatoes are rich in lycopene a powerful antioxidant. When cooked with olive oil and herbs, these ingredients create a deeply nourishing, immune-boosting meal.

Flavor Profile: Hearty, Bright, and Comforting

What makes Cuban White Bean Soup stand out is its layered, well-rounded flavor. The sofrito base imparts savory umami notes, with the sweetness of sautéed onions and the earthiness of bell peppers laying the groundwork. Garlic, cumin, and oregano add warmth and spice without overwhelming the dish.

Smoked paprika introduces a subtle depth, evoking the traditional use of cured meats in older recipes while still remaining fully plant-based. Vinegar stirred in at the end brightens the dish and balances the richness of the beans and vegetables. Fresh cilantro, added at the finish, lends herbal freshness that ties the entire soup together.

The texture is equally appealing: tender beans, soft diced potatoes, and a slightly thickened broth that coats the spoon. The balance between creaminess and brothiness is key it’s a soup that feels light enough for lunch but hearty enough for dinner.

Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions

Cuban White Bean Soup is versatile when it comes to accompaniments. In Cuban tradition, soups like this are often served with white rice or tostones (fried plantains) on the side. You can also enjoy it with:

• Crusty artisan bread for dipping

• Avocado slices with a squeeze of lime for a creamy, fresh contrast

• A side salad of citrus-marinated greens to brighten the meal

• Hot sauce or pickled onions for those who enjoy a touch of heat or acidity

Because the soup is well-balanced and flavorful, it doesn’t require much embellishment. A drizzle of olive oil or a swirl of coconut milk can elevate the presentation and texture for dinner parties or special occasions.

Variations for Every Preference

One of the greatest strengths of this soup is its adaptability. Here are a few popular and easy-to-implement variations:

• Smoky twist: Add chipotle powder or smoked salt for a deeper, barbecue-like undertone.

• Leafy greens: Toss in chopped kale, chard, or spinach during the final minutes of cooking to boost nutrition.

• Creamy version: Blend a portion of the soup before serving to create a thicker, creamier texture.

• Protein boost: Add cubed tofu or tempeh for extra plant-based protein, or for non-vegan adaptations, include shredded chicken or chorizo.

• Grain boost: Stir in cooked brown rice, farro, or quinoa to turn it into a stew-like meal.

Each of these customizations allows home cooks to cater to dietary needs, taste preferences, and available pantry ingredients.

Why This Recipe Is Great for Meal Prep

Cuban White Bean Soup stores beautifully, making it a go-to choice for batch cooking. It keeps in the refrigerator for up to five days and freezes well for up to three months. In fact, the flavors often deepen over time, making the leftovers even more delicious.

Meal preppers can portion it into individual containers, ready to heat and eat for busy lunches or low-effort dinners. For added convenience, keep toppings like fresh herbs, lime wedges, or avocado separate until serving.

A Great Introduction to Latin Flavors

For those new to Latin American or Caribbean cooking, this soup is an approachable entry point. It introduces you to key components like sofrito and the balance of savory and citrusy flavors that define much of Cuban cuisine. It doesn’t rely on hard-to-find ingredients or complicated techniques, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

Cooking this soup at home can also serve as an invitation to explore more traditional Cuban dishes—from arroz congri to yuca with mojo broadening your appreciation for one of the most flavorful culinary cultures in the world.

Conclusion:

Cuban White Bean Soup is more than just a nourishing meal it’s a warm expression of Cuba’s rich culinary history. It showcases the power of plant-based ingredients, the comfort of well-seasoned broth, and the magic that happens when simple elements are cooked with care and purpose.

This recipe allows for versatility, suits a wide range of dietary lifestyles, and offers an affordable way to eat well. Whether you’re a home cook exploring new cuisines, a health-conscious foodie, or simply looking for a cozy meal to get you through the week, this soup delivers on all fronts.

Bringing it to your table is a way to honor Cuban traditions while embracing modern cooking values sustainability, inclusivity, and flavor. So ladle up a bowl, add your favorite garnishes, and savor the soulful simplicity of Cuban White Bean Soup.