The rich aroma of Bean with Bacon Soup wafts through the kitchen, making your mouth water in anticipation. Picture a bowl filled with tender beans, smoky bacon, and spices dancing together like old friends at a reunion. The moment you lift a spoonful to your lips, the warm, hearty flavors embrace you like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
This dish is more than just comfort food; it’s a nostalgic trip down memory lane. I remember my grandmother stirring her giant pot of Bean with Bacon Soup on cold winter days, filling the house with warmth and love. Perfect for family gatherings or just a cozy night in, this soup captures the essence of home-cooked goodness that everyone craves. For more inspiration, check out this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Bean with Bacon Soup is incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights.
- The flavor profile combines savory bacon with wholesome beans for a delightful taste explosion.
- Visually appealing with its vibrant colors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to impress anyone at your dinner table.
- This versatile recipe works well as an appetizer or main course, making it suitable for any occasion.
Ingredients for Bean with Bacon Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Great Northern Beans: These mild-flavored beans are the star of the show and provide a creamy texture once cooked.
- Bacon: Choose thick-cut bacon for that irresistible smoky flavor that enhances the entire soup experience.
- Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; sauté until translucent for the best results.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings an aromatic punch that complements the other flavors beautifully.
- Carrots: Diced carrots add color and natural sweetness; they also enhance the soup’s heartiness.
- Celery: Chopped celery contributes crunch and lightness, balancing out the richness of the bacon.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth as a base to control saltiness while providing deep flavor.
- Dried Thyme: A sprinkle of dried thyme infuses an earthy aroma that ties all flavors together in harmony.
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: Prepare Your Beans
Start by soaking Great Northern beans overnight or use the quick soak method by boiling them for one minute then letting them sit covered for an hour. This ensures they become tender during cooking.
Step 2: Sauté Your Aromatics
In a large pot over medium heat, cook diced bacon until crispy. Remove bacon pieces, leaving behind some drippings. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery to sauté until softened—about five minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add soaked beans back into the pot along with chicken broth and dried thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, covering partially so steam escapes.
Step 4: Simmer Away
Let the soup simmer for about one hour or until beans are tender. Stir occasionally because nobody likes burnt bits on their beautiful soup.
Step 5: Adjust Seasoning
Taste your masterpiece! If you feel it needs more salt or pepper—now’s your chance to adjust those flavors perfectly.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Ladle into bowls and top with crispy bacon bits reserved earlier for that extra crunch! Enjoy it alongside crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
There you have it—a delightful bowl of Bean with Bacon Soup ready to warm hearts and fill bellies! Enjoy every spoonful while reminiscing about those cozy evenings at grandma’s house.
You Must Know
- This delightful bean with bacon soup brings comfort and joy to any meal.
- It’s a perfect blend of hearty beans and smoky bacon that will warm your soul.
- Easy to make, this recipe is a family favorite that you’ll want to keep on repeat.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by frying the bacon until crispy, then drain some fat for flavor without the grease overload. Sauté onions and garlic in the remaining fat before adding beans, broth, and seasonings. Simmer until everything melds beautifully for ultimate taste.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the beans for lentils or chickpeas if you’re feeling adventurous. Add in some diced tomatoes or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick. Top with fresh herbs or cheese for that gourmet touch.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover bean with bacon soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to restore creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality bacon for richer flavor; it makes all the difference in your soup’s taste.
- Soak beans overnight for a quicker cooking time; this saves you precious minutes during dinner prep.
- Don’t skip simmering—allowing flavors to blend elevates this dish into pure comfort food magic.
Sometimes, my friends call me “the Bean Whisperer” after I made this soup for a gathering. Everyone kept asking for the secret ingredient, and I just laughed because it’s all about love and bacon!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Bean with Bacon Soup?
To prepare a delicious bean with bacon soup, gather essential ingredients like dried white beans, bacon, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and chicken or vegetable broth. You’ll also need bay leaves and seasonings such as salt and pepper. Optional ingredients can include diced tomatoes or herbs for added flavor. chicken rice and beans combination Each component plays a vital role in developing the soup’s rich taste. Ensure you soak the beans beforehand for optimal cooking. This classic recipe is both comforting and nutritious, making it perfect for chilly days or casual family dinners.
How long does it take to cook Bean with Bacon Soup?
Cooking bean with bacon soup typically takes around 2 to 3 hours if you use dried beans. First, soak the beans overnight to reduce cooking time. After sautéing the bacon and vegetables, add the soaked beans and broth, allowing everything to simmer. If you prefer using canned beans, the cooking time decreases significantly to about 30-40 minutes. Regardless of your choice of beans, ensure they are tender before serving. This hearty soup makes a satisfying meal that fills you up without taking too much time.
Can I make Bean with Bacon Soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Bean with bacon soup is an excellent dish to prepare ahead of time. In fact, its flavors develop beautifully when stored overnight in the refrigerator. Simply let the soup cool after cooking, then transfer it to an airtight container. Reheat on the stovetop when you’re ready to serve. The leftovers will taste even better as the ingredients meld together over time. For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the soup for up to three months. This convenience makes it an ideal meal prep option.
What can I serve with Bean with Bacon Soup?
Bean with bacon soup pairs wonderfully with various sides that enhance its flavors. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread or warm rolls for dipping. A fresh garden salad complements this hearty dish nicely by providing a refreshing contrast. fresh spinach apple salad For a more filling meal, try adding grilled cheese sandwiches or cornbread on the side. grilled salmon recipe These options not only complement but also create a well-rounded dining experience that everyone will enjoy.
Conclusion for Bean with Bacon Soup :
Bean with bacon soup is a deliciously hearty dish filled with flavor and comfort. By combining simple ingredients like beans and bacon, you create a nutritious meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you choose to make it from scratch or utilize canned beans for convenience, this recipe offers flexibility in preparation time and storage options. Remember to pair it with your favorite sides for a complete dining experience that satisfies every palate. Enjoy this timeless classic that warms both your heart and home!
Bean with Bacon Soup
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Bean with Bacon Soup is a comforting classic that brings warmth and nostalgia to your table. This hearty dish combines creamy Great Northern beans with smoky, thick-cut bacon, creating a delightful medley of flavors perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. Easy to prepare, this recipe is sure to be a favorite in your home, offering a cozy meal in every spoonful.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Great Northern Beans (dry)
- 6 oz thick-cut Bacon
- 1 medium Onion, diced
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 cup Carrots, diced
- 1 cup Celery, chopped
- 4 cups low-sodium Chicken Broth
- 1 tsp Dried Thyme
Instructions
- Soak the beans overnight or quick-soak by boiling for one minute and letting sit covered for an hour.
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy; remove and set aside while leaving drippings in the pot.
- Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery in the drippings until softened (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Stir in soaked beans, chicken broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and partially cover.
- Simmer for about 60 minutes or until beans are tender; stir occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot topped with reserved crispy bacon bits.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Swap Great Northern beans for lentils or chickpeas for variations. Add diced tomatoes or hot sauce for an extra kick. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to five days; reheat gently on the stove.
