Cozy Bean with Bacon Soup: A Hearty Comfort Food Delight

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by Chloe

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Bean with Bacon Soup is a warm hug in a bowl, bursting with savory goodness that dances on your taste buds. Imagine the smoky aroma wafting through your kitchen as tender beans mingle with crispy bacon and a medley of spices. It’s the ultimate comfort food that feels like home, no matter where you are.

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Now, picture this: it’s a chilly evening, and you want something hearty to fend off the cold. This Bean with Bacon Soup doesn’t just satisfy your hunger; it creates nostalgia. I remember my grandma slaving over the stove with her secret recipe, always promising it would make everything better—be it a rough day or a rainy afternoon. The anticipation builds as the broth simmers, filling your home with an irresistible scent that beckons everyone to gather around the table.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This heartwarming Bean with Bacon Soup is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • The flavor profile is rich and smoky, creating a delightful experience for your taste buds.
  • Visually appealing with its golden broth and colorful veggies, this soup is sure to impress.
  • It’s versatile enough for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep for the week ahead.

Ingredients for Bean with Bacon Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Great Northern Beans: These creamy white beans are perfect for soaking up flavors and providing that satisfying texture.
  • Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor; it adds a smoky richness that elevates the entire soup.
  • Onion: A medium onion adds depth and sweetness; don’t skip this essential ingredient!
  • Carrots: Chopped carrots bring sweetness and color; they also add a nice crunch.
  • Celery: This aromatic veggie adds freshness; it’s like a little green crunch in every spoonful.
  • Garlic: Fresh minced garlic will give your soup an aromatic kick; use as much as you dare!
  • Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth ensures you control the saltiness while giving the soup body.
  • Dried Thyme: A pinch of thyme adds earthy notes that marry beautifully with other flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation

How to Make Bean with Bacon Soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by rinsing your Great Northern beans under cold water. If you’re using dried beans, soak them overnight according to package instructions.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a large pot over medium heat, cook the bacon pieces until they’re crispy. Remove them from the pot but leave the drippings behind—trust me on this one!

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté until they start softening up—about five minutes should do! Don’t forget to throw in that minced garlic and sauté for another minute.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Return your crispy bacon to the pot along with soaked beans, chicken broth, thyme, and pepper. Bring everything to a boil then reduce heat and let it simmer.

Step 5: Simmer Away

Cover your pot and let it simmer for about an hour or until those beans are tender and full of flavor. Stir occasionally and keep an eye on things!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle into bowls and serve hot! You can garnish each bowl with fresh parsley or even some croutons if you’re feeling fancy.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

And there you have it! A delightful bowl of Bean with Bacon Soup that warms both tummy and soul—all without breaking a sweat in the kitchen! Gather loved ones around because once you dive into this comforting creation, you’ll find yourself sharing not just soup but stories too!

You Must Know

  • This delightful Bean with Bacon Soup not only warms the soul but also makes for a cozy dinner.
  • You can easily adapt the ingredients based on your pantry staples.
  • Rich in flavor and texture, it’s perfect for chilly nights or unexpected guests.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing bacon until crispy, then add onions and garlic for a fragrant base. Next, incorporate beans, broth, and seasoning before simmering to perfection. This sequence ensures each ingredient shines through in your soup.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out canned beans for dried ones; just remember to soak them overnight. Add vegetables like carrots or celery for extra nutrition, or spice it up with smoked paprika or chili flakes.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Bean with Bacon Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through to maintain flavor and texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while allowing flavors to develop naturally.
  • If using dried beans, cook them separately first for better texture.
  • For an extra kick, try adding hot sauce during cooking for a flavorful twist.

Sometimes I make this soup after a long day just to hear my family’s “Mmm” sounds echoing through the house; it truly feels like a warm hug in a bowl!

FAQs:

What ingredients are needed for Bean with Bacon Soup?

To make a delicious Bean with Bacon Soup, you’ll need ingredients like dried beans, bacon, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and vegetable or chicken broth. Seasonings such as salt, pepper, and thyme enhance the flavor. You can also add diced tomatoes for sweetness and extra texture. This comforting dish is versatile; feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices.

How long does it take to prepare Bean with Bacon Soup?

Preparation time for Bean with Bacon Soup is about 15 to 20 minutes. Cooking time typically ranges from 1 to 2 hours, depending on whether you use dried beans or canned ones. If using dried beans, remember to soak them overnight for optimal softness and quicker cooking. With these steps, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time.

Can I freeze Bean with Bacon Soup?

Yes! Freezing Bean with Bacon Soup is an excellent way to preserve leftovers. Make sure the soup cools completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove until warm.

What can I serve with Bean with Bacon Soup?

Bean with Bacon Soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. You might also consider serving it alongside grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic combo that appeals to all ages. For a more filling meal, add rice or quinoa into the soup itself; this will enhance both nutrition and flavor.

Conclusion for Bean with Bacon Soup:

In summary, Bean with Bacon Soup combines hearty beans and smoky bacon for a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. The recipe is simple and allows for customization based on your preferences. Don’t forget that preparation takes about 15 minutes while cooking may require up to two hours if using dried beans. This dish freezes well and is best served alongside crusty bread or salads. Enjoy this delightful soup that warms both the heart and home!

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Bean with Bacon Soup


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  • Author: Chloe
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

Description

Bean with Bacon Soup is the ultimate comfort food, blending creamy Great Northern beans with crispy bacon and a medley of aromatic vegetables. Perfect for cold evenings, this hearty soup not only warms the soul but also evokes nostalgia with every spoonful. It’s simple to make and delivers rich, satisfying flavors that will impress your family and friends alike.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup Great Northern beans (dried)
  • 6 oz thick-cut bacon
  • 1 medium onion (chopped)
  • 2 carrots (chopped)
  • 2 celery stalks (chopped)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse the Great Northern beans under cold water. If using dried beans, soak them overnight.
  2. In a large pot over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon but leave the drippings in the pot.
  3. Sauté chopped onion, carrots, and celery in the bacon drippings for about five minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
  4. Return the crispy bacon to the pot along with soaked beans, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about one hour or until beans are tender.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1 cup / 240g)
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 27g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

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