Drain and rinse the cooked white beans if using canned, or prepare them fresh if using dried.
Press the tofu lightly with a paper towel to remove excess moisture and cut into 1-inch cubes.
Dice the onion, mince the garlic, slice the carrot into rounds or half-moons, and chop the celery and kale.
Heat a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a splash of water or a light drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Sauté the onions and garlic until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the carrots and celery to the pan, stirring for another 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
Stir in the tofu cubes and cook gently for 3 minutes, ensuring they absorb the flavors from the vegetables.
Add the white beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Stir in the chopped kale during the last 2 minutes of cooking, so it wilts just enough.
Season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs (such as thyme or rosemary) to taste. Serve hot.