True-to-Form Philosophy Soup: Smoky Tomato & White Bean Stew

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A philosophically 'authentic' soup embodying the essence of 'true existence' through simple, real ingredients and slow-simmered depth. This mediterranean-inspired soups (vegetarian) ready in about 55 minutes pairs Olive oil, finely diced Onion, finely diced Carrot for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 40 min Serves 4 Mediterranean cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté 1/2 cup diced onion, 1/2 cup diced carrot, and 1/2 cup diced celery for 8 minutes until softened. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Step 2: Stir in 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes, 14 oz low-sodium vegetable broth, 1 can drained cannellini beans, 1 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/2 tsp dried oregano. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 20 minutes.
  3. Step 3: Season with 3/4 tsp kosher salt and simmer an additional 10 minutes. Stir in 2 tbsp fresh basil just before serving until wilted and aromatic.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does True-to-Form Philosophy Soup: Smoky Tomato & White Bean Stew take to make?

Total time is about 55 minutes (15 min prep + 40 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.

How do I store leftover True-to-Form Philosophy Soup: Smoky Tomato & White Bean Stew?

Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep olive oil from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in True-to-Form Philosophy Soup: Smoky Tomato & White Bean Stew?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale True-to-Form Philosophy Soup: Smoky Tomato & White Bean Stew for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is True-to-Form Philosophy Soup: Smoky Tomato & White Bean Stew vegetarian?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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