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This creamy white bean dish transforms humble ingredients into an elegant Mediterranean-inspired meal. The natural sweetness of the beans perfectly complements the intense sun-dried tomatoes, proving that plant-based cooking can be both simple and sophisticated.
This recipe emerged from exploring hearty plant-based cooking. The way white beans can become the star of a sophisticated meal continues to amaze home cooks.
Key Ingredients
- White beans (2 x 14oz cans): Choose cannellini or navy beans for their creamy texture. Rinse thoroughly to remove excess sodium
- Sun-dried tomatoes (3.5oz): Select semi-dried varieties not packed in oil for better flavor control
- Soy cream (1 cup): Use unsweetened for its neutral taste and silky texture
- Fresh garlic (3 cloves): Fresh provides better depth than powdered
- Dried oregano (2 tsp): Holds its flavor better during cooking than fresh
- Fresh basil (1 cup): Essential for the final fresh notes
Detailed Preparation
- 1. Prep Work (15 minutes)
- Finely mince garlic to prevent burning. Cut sun-dried tomatoes into even strips. Rinse beans until water runs clear, then drain well.
- 2. Building Flavors (5 minutes)
- Heat vegan butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic, cooking until fragrant but not browned.
- 3. Developing Depth (10 minutes)
- Add spices and sun-dried tomatoes. Allow them to warm gently, releasing their essential oils. Stir constantly to prevent burning.
- 4. Creating the Sauce (15 minutes)
- Gently fold in beans. Gradually add vegetable broth, stirring between additions. Stream in soy cream while stirring for a stable emulsion. Maintain gentle simmer.
- 5. Final Touches (5 minutes)
- Finish with fresh basil. Adjust seasoning and consistency as needed.
This dish has become a kitchen staple, winning over even dedicated meat-eaters with its creamy texture and deep flavors.
Seasonal Variations
Summer welcomes grilled zucchini, fall calls for sautéed mushrooms, and winter suggests fresh spinach melted into the sauce.
Mastering the Sauce
Perfect sauce consistency depends on temperature control and timing. Use hot broth and room temperature soy cream to prevent splitting.
Perfect Pairings
* Garlic-rubbed sourdough toast
* Fresh herb salad with olive oil and lemon
* Steamed green vegetables
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This vegan recipe demonstrates how simple ingredients can create satisfying, flavorful meals. It embodies mindful cooking where each component plays an essential role.
Adding basil at the end preserves its volatile oils, providing fresh notes that balance the rich sauce. Such attention to detail elevates this bean dish into a memorable meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use dried beans instead?
- Absolutely. Soak them overnight and cook until tender before using them in this dish.
- → Which plant-based cream works best?
- Soy cream works great for its texture, but you could also try oat or almond cream.
- → How should I store this dish?
- Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding a bit of broth if it's too thick.
- → Is freezing an option for this dish?
- Yes, but the sauce might separate a little. Stir while reheating on a low setting to fix the texture.
- → What can I serve on the side?
- Toasted bread works best, but quinoa, rice, or roasted veggies also pair well for a hearty meal.