How to Cook a la Bonne Femme Simple, Honest French Home Cooking

heavy cream

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: milk + cornstarch

Greek yogurt reduces calories while maintaining creaminess

vegetable broth

🥗Healthier: homemade broth

💰Cheaper: water + bouillon cubes

Homemade broth can be healthier and more flavorful.

croutons

🥗Healthier: toasted seeds

💰Cheaper: toasted bread

Toasted seeds add crunch and are often more nutritious.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil is healthier, while canola is more budget-friendly.

Melt the butter in a medium saucepan or stockpot over medium heat.

Add the leeks and carrots. Sweat gently for 2–3 minutes until the leeks soften and turn translucent (do not brown).

Add the diced potatoes and stir for another minute.

Add the broth, water, and optional white wine.

Bring to a simmer, then add the thyme and bay leaf.

Simmer gently for 10 minutes.

Add the green beans and white beans. Cover with a lid and continue simmering for another 20 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender.

Remove the thyme and bay leaf. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste.

Classic Clear Version: Serve the soup as-is, piping hot. Add a knob of butter and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Creamy Version: Stir in the cream and extra butter. Bring it back to a gentle simmer for 5 more minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley, crispy bacon, and croutons.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens