There’s something incredibly comforting about a steaming bowl of bean with bacon soup. Imagine the rich, smoky aroma wafting through your kitchen, teasing your taste buds and inviting you to take that first delicious sip. The combination of hearty beans and crispy bacon creates a symphony of flavors that warms you from the inside out, making it perfect for cozy nights in or chilly afternoons when you need a pick-me-up. For more inspiration, check out this Delicious Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Reflecting on my childhood, I remember standing next to my grandmother as she stirred her bubbling pot of bean with bacon soup, filling the house with memories and laughter. It was her secret recipe that made family gatherings feel complete. sweet dessert to follow Whether you’re enjoying it on a rainy day or serving it at a festive gathering, this soup is bound to steal the show and bring everyone together in delightful harmony. fun twist on dessert.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This bean with bacon soup is not only easy to prepare but also packs a flavor punch that will impress your guests.
- Its heartiness is visually appealing, making it a showstopper at any dinner table.
- You can customize ingredients based on your pantry staples for added versatility.
- Perfect for casual dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead!
Ingredients for Bean with Bacon Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Dry Navy Beans: These little beauties are the star of the show, providing a creamy texture that’s essential for any bean soup.
- Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor; the smokiness adds depth to the entire dish.
- Onion: A medium onion will add sweetness and aroma; make sure to chop it finely so it blends well.
- Carrots: Diced carrots bring color and a touch of natural sweetness; they complement the beans beautifully.
- Celery: Chopped celery provides crunch and a fresh flavor base; it’s crucial for that classic soup taste.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves will elevate your soup’s flavor profile; don’t skimp on this aromatic ingredient!
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels while adding an incredible depth of flavor.
- Dried Thyme: A sprinkle of dried thyme adds an earthy note that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Bean with Bacon Soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Soak the Beans
Begin by rinsing one cup of dry navy beans under cold water. Then soak them in enough water overnight or for at least six hours until they are plump and ready.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a large pot over medium heat, add four slices of thick-cut bacon. Cook until crispy and golden brown, which should take about five minutes. Remove bacon from pot and set aside, leaving drippings in the pot.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Add one chopped onion, two diced carrots, and two stalks of chopped celery to the pot with bacon drippings. Sauté these veggies until tender—approximately five minutes—stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Beans
Stir in three minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Then add your soaked beans along with four cups of low-sodium chicken broth.
Step 5: Season and Simmer
Sprinkle in one teaspoon of dried thyme along with salt and pepper to taste. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat; let it simmer uncovered for about one hour or until beans are tender.
Step 6: Final Touches
Crumble your reserved bacon back into the pot as you stir gently. Allow everything to heat through before serving hot!
Transfer to bowls, garnish as desired (perhaps some fresh herbs!), and enjoy this delightful bowl of comfort food that’s sure to bring smiles all around!
You Must Know
- This delightful bean with bacon soup is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl.
- With its hearty flavors and smoky undertones, it transforms any chilly day into a cozy retreat.
- Plus, it’s the ultimate comfort food that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing your bacon until crispy, then add onions and garlic for flavor. Next, toss in your beans and broth to simmer, letting those flavors meld beautifully. This sequence ensures you capture all that smoky goodness while keeping everything perfectly cooked.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this bean with bacon soup by adding veggies like carrots or celery for extra nutrition. Swap out the type of beans based on your pantry or throw in some spicy sausage for a kick. The possibilities are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover bean with bacon soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat until steaming hot, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while allowing the flavors to shine through.
- Be sure to soak dried beans overnight for the best texture and taste.
- If using canned beans, rinse them well to remove excess sodium and improve flavor.
Sometimes I whip up this bean with bacon soup on a rainy Saturday afternoon when I need a little comfort food therapy. My friends always rave about how it’s like a warm blanket wrapped in flavor! For more inspiration, check out this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup recipe.
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Bean with Bacon Soup?
To make Bean with Bacon Soup, you’ll need a variety of simple ingredients. Start with dried navy beans or canned beans for convenience. You’ll also require bacon, onion, celery, carrots, garlic, and diced tomatoes. For flavor, include chicken broth, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Optional ingredients like hot sauce or parsley can enhance the taste. This combination creates a hearty and satisfying soup that warms you on chilly days.
How long does it take to prepare Bean with Bacon Soup?
Preparing Bean with Bacon Soup typically takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 1 to 2 hours of cooking time if using dried beans. If you opt for canned beans, the cooking time decreases significantly to around 30 minutes. The key is to allow enough time for flavors to meld together while simmering. Don’t rush this step, as it enhances the taste of your soup.
Can I make Bean with Bacon Soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! You can easily make Bean with Bacon Soup in a slow cooker for added convenience. Just sauté the bacon and vegetables first to develop deeper flavors. Then transfer everything to the slow cooker along with the beans and broth. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the soup to cook gently and results in an incredibly rich flavor.
How can I store leftover Bean with Bacon Soup?
Storing leftover Bean with Bacon Soup is simple and effective. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much in the fridge or freezer. Enjoy your delicious leftovers as a quick meal option!
Conclusion for Bean with Bacon Soup :
In summary, Bean with Bacon Soup is a comforting dish that combines simple ingredients into a hearty meal. From preparation time to storage options, this recipe offers versatility and ease. Whether you choose stovetop or slow cooker methods, each approach ensures rich flavors that delight the palate. simple cookie recipe Enjoy experimenting with additional spices and herbs to make this classic soup your own!
Bean with Bacon Soup
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Bean with Bacon Soup is the epitome of comfort food, marrying creamy navy beans with crispy, smoky bacon for a dish that warms both body and soul. This hearty soup is easy to make and perfect for cozy nights or family gatherings, filling your home with an irresistible aroma. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy a delicious bowl of this classic soup in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dry navy beans
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Soak the beans overnight in water until plump.
- In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy; set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onion, carrots, and celery in bacon drippings for about five minutes.
- Add garlic and sauté for one minute more.
- Stir in soaked beans and chicken broth; season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about an hour until beans are tender.
- Crumble reserved bacon into the pot; stir gently before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
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