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Sausage Fennel and White Bean Soup

Sausage Fennel and White Bean Soup
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Sausage Fennel and White Bean Soup is a comforting and hearty meal that combines the rich, spicy flavors of Italian sausage with the subtle sweetness of fennel and creamy white beans. This savory soup is packed with wholesome ingredients, easy to prepare, and perfect for warming up on chilly days or for a nutritious, satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound Italian sausage (spicy or mild), casing removed
  • 1 fennel bulb, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups cooked white beans (preferably cannellini), drained and rinsed
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter, vegan-friendly option)
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Brown the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Remove the sausage from its casing and crumble it into the pan. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the flavorful oils in the pot.
  2. Sauté Aromatics and Fennel: Add chopped onion, garlic, and thinly sliced fennel bulb to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables become soft and fragrant, allowing natural sugars to caramelize slightly.
  3. Combine Beans and Broth: Return the cooked sausage to the pot along with the drained white beans. Pour in the chicken broth and add sprigs of fresh rosemary and thyme. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
  4. Simmer and Season: Let the soup simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes so the flavors meld and the broth reduces slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if desired, adjusting to taste.
  5. Finish and Serve: Remove the herb sprigs and stir the soup gently. For a creamier texture, lightly mash some beans with the back of a spoon. Ladle into bowls and enjoy.

Notes

  • Use high-quality sausage for more flavorful soup.
  • Properly brown the sausage and sauté the fennel to add depth of flavor.
  • Fresh rosemary and thyme are preferred over dried for aromatic brightness.
  • Rinse and drain canned beans to remove excess sodium and any canned flavors.
  • Mash a portion of the beans to thicken and add creaminess to the soup.

Nutrition

Keywords: sausage soup, fennel soup, white bean soup, Italian sausage recipe, hearty soup, gluten free soup

Find it online: https://gourmetglazing.com/sausage-fennel-and-white-bean-soup/