Cozy Up with Hearty Bean Soup: A Fall Favorite

Begin by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a pan over medium heat. Butter is the starting block of flavor for our soup, but if you're leaning towards a vegan option, coconut oil makes a great substitute, carrying its own unique flavor profile. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, gently introduce the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. The aroma of garlic and onion sautéing together is the first sign that something wonderful is about to happen. Let them cook until they’re soft, about 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent any from sticking to the bottom.

Next up, add 1 cup of your chosen beans along with a tablespoon of freshly chopped herbs like thyme and basil into the pan. Maybe you’ve had a productive year in the garden and you’re using herbs you’ve dried yourself, or maybe you’ve swung by the local grocery—either way, the herbs will breath life and freshness into the soup. As you stir these into the mix, you're layering flavors, creating a foundation that’s both robust and fragrant.

This step invites the liquids into our culinary symphony. First, pour 1/4 cup of dry wine into the pan, followed by 2 cups of vegetable broth. Whether you're a connoisseur selecting the perfect wine or using what you have on hand, it’s the wine’s job to deglaze the pan and integrate all those lovely flavors from the bottom. Then, the broth comes pouring in, marrying all our ingredients together. Allow this mixture a few minutes to come to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer, letting the magic happen as flavors meld together.

For a smooth, creamy texture, it's time to blend. You can opt for an emulsifier right in the pot for convenience or transfer your soup into a blender, processing it in batches if necessary. The goal is to puree the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. Some like it velvety and smooth, while others prefer to leave a few chunky bits for texture. Once blended, return the soup to the pot if you've removed it. This is your soup, after all, so make it exactly how you love it.

It’s nearly time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Stir in a tablespoon of sherry, adding a complexity that’ll make your tastebuds dance. Season with salt and pepper to taste, remembering that this step is all about personalizing your bowl of soup. Whether you enjoy a bolder, more savory flavor or something a bit lighter, adjust the seasoning carefully. The sherry's slight sweetness and the seasoning's balance will round out the flavors beautifully, making the soup ready to serve.