Garlic Tomato White Beans Soup (Printable Version)

A creamy blend of garlic, tomatoes, and white beans for a warming, flavorful bowl. #comfortfood #homemade #creamy

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 10 medium-to-large garlic cloves, peeled
02 - 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
03 - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
04 - 2 tablespoons tomato paste
05 - 2 cans (15 ounces each) white beans, slightly drained, preferably cannellini or 3 1/2 cups cooked white beans
06 - 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes, organic preferred
07 - 1 cup vegetable broth or water
08 - 1 to 2 teaspoons maple syrup, plus additional to taste
09 - 1 can (14 ounces) light coconut milk, thoroughly shaken, divided; use full-fat coconut milk for a richer soup

# Steps:

01 - Using the bottom of a heavy skillet, flatten the peeled garlic cloves until slightly crushed.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add smashed garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until golden brown and aromatic, about 3 minutes. Stir in red pepper flakes and tomato paste, cooking for 1 minute to develop flavor.
03 - Incorporate white beans, crushed tomatoes, and vegetable broth or water into the pot. Season with salt to taste. Bring mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing flavors to meld, about 10 minutes.
04 - Using a potato masher or the back of a spoon, mash roughly half of the beans in the pot to thicken the soup. Stir in maple syrup and half of the coconut milk, reserving the remainder for garnish.
05 - Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more maple syrup or salt if desired. Swirl in remaining coconut milk as garnish and serve the soup hot.

# Notes:

01 - For a richer texture, substitute full-fat coconut milk and blend the soup partially for extra creaminess.