Name: Flavorful Butter Beans with Leeks Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 1 can drained cannellini beans; 1 leek, finely sliced; 2 cloves garlic, sliced; 1 sprig rosemary, diced; 1 sprig thyme; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon pepper; Juice and zest of half a lemon; Handful of parsley, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon butter; 2 tablespoons white wine; 3/4 cup vegetable broth; 30g cheddar cheese; 15g vegetarian pecorino cheese

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Introduction

Flavorful Butter Beans with Leeks is a comforting and savory dish that combines creamy beans, aromatic herbs, and melted cheeses. Perfect as a hearty appetizer or light main, this recipe brings simple ingredients together to create deep, satisfying flavors.

The image shows a pot filled with a creamy soup that has three main layers. The top layer is scattered with small white beans, light green celery pieces, and fresh dark green herb leaves, all floating in a pale yellowish broth. The middle layer is a thick, smooth liquid that looks slightly shiny and contains small bits of soft cooked vegetables. The bottom layer, visible near the edge of the pot, shows a mix of diced white onions and celery, creating a soft texture. A large silver ladle scoops up some soup, revealing the creamy broth and bean mixture clearly. The pot is white and sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 can drained cannellini beans
1 leek
2 cloves garlic
1 sprig rosemary
1 sprig thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon butter
2 tablespoons white wine
3/4 cup vegetable broth
30g cheddar cheese
15g vegetarian pecorino cheese
Juice and zest of half a lemon
Handful of parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Add butter to a saucepan and melt it over low heat to prevent burning. Once melted, add finely sliced leeks, sliced garlic, a sprig of thyme, and diced rosemary. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes until the leeks are soft and fragrant, keeping the heat low to avoid browning.
Step 2: Pour in white wine to deglaze the pan and cook for another 2 minutes. This step adds depth and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Step 3: Add the drained cannellini beans, vegetable broth, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir in the cheddar cheese and cook for an additional 8 to 10 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
Step 4: Grate vegetarian pecorino cheese over the mixture. Add extra salt and pepper to taste. Squeeze in the lemon juice and sprinkle the lemon zest and chopped parsley on top to brighten and freshen the flavors.
Step 5: Serve immediately, preferably with slices of crispy bread to soak up the creamy, cheesy sauce. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful meal fresh from the stove.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh cannellini beans if possible for a creamier texture and fresher taste.
Substitute white wine with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for a non-alcoholic version.
Add a pinch of chili flakes if you prefer a bit of heat in your dish.
For a richer flavor, finish with a drizzle of good quality olive oil before serving.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of vegetable broth if the mixture has thickened too much. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but keeps well for a quick meal later.

How to Serve

A top view of a white large pot filled with creamy white bean stew mixed with small chopped green vegetables, likely celery or leeks, visible in a thick light greenish-yellow sauce. The stew is garnished with small sprigs of thyme and black pepper sprinkled on top. The pot is placed on a white marbled surface with a white cloth nearby, a small bowl of finely chopped green herbs in the upper left corner, and fresh sprigs of thyme on the upper right side. A wooden-handled spatula with a black head is partially visible in the bottom right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of beans instead of cannellini?

Yes, you can substitute cannellini beans with butter beans, navy beans, or great northern beans. Just ensure they are cooked and drained before adding to the recipe.

What if I don’t have pecorino cheese?

If vegetarian pecorino isn’t available, you can use grated Parmesan or another hard cheese of your choice. The key is to use a cheese with a sharp, salty flavor to complement the beans and leeks.