And if — or rather when — you make this Cabbage, Fennel and White Bean Soup, don’t forget to factor in the sour cream added at serving time when you’re seasoning to taste.

Although there are numerous ways to transform a good soup into a great soup, you probably already have this spicy ingredient ...

Because beans are relatively tasteless on their own, they're great at absorbing the flavors of other ingredients and seasonings in your soup. Check out Food & Wine's guide to classic bean soups ...

Adjust the seasoning to taste. Set aside. To make the soup, heat the oil in a large saucepan ... stirring. Tip the beans into the pan, add the vegetable stock and bring to a simmer.

Add the broad beans, except for the reserved chopped ... Taste and adjust the seasoning. To serve, pour the soup into bowls and top with a sprig of mint and a light dusting of paprika or cayenne ...