Bean with Bacon Soup

Great Northern beans hold a special place in many kitchens, evoking feelings of warmth and comfort. Memories of simmering pots on cold evenings come to mind as flavorful aromas waft through homes. Bean with bacon soup makes me think of family gatherings where laughter fills the air, and everyone anticipates the delicious meal ahead.

The rich, hearty flavors offer nourishment beyond just physical sustenance. With Great Northern beans and crispy bacon, each spoonful encapsulates the essence of home-cooked happiness. The combination of fragrant vegetables and savory broth complements the beans beautifully, creating a balanced dish that warms the soul.

In every bite, the textures blend seamlessly, from the tender beans to the crispy bits of bacon. This soup isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. Many families have passed down their own versions, making it a cherished recipe through generations. With this guide, you can create your own comforting bowl of bean with bacon soup, celebrating tradition and flavor.

Bean with Bacon Soup Fundamentals

Fundamentals

Bean with bacon soup is a comforting classic that highlights the simplicity of ingredients. The star of the dish is, of course, the Great Northern beans. These creamy, mild-flavored beans soak up the delicious broth and become the heart of your meal. Their versatility allows them to adapt to various flavor profiles, making them perfect for this hearty soup.

The bacon contributes a robust, smoky flavor that complements the beans exquisitely. Using thick-cut bacon ensures that you enjoy a satisfying texture alongside the tender beans. Layers of flavor build as you incorporate aromatic vegetables such as onions, carrots, and celery. This mix not only adds depth to the soup but also provides essential nutrients. When combined with the fragrant garlic and dried thyme, each bite bursts with flavor.

Preparation/setup

To prepare for your bean with bacon soup, start by gathering all necessary ingredients. Begin with a careful rinse of the Great Northern beans under cold water. If using dried beans, make sure to soak them overnight for that perfect softness. This step is crucial as it reduces cooking time and ensures the beans cook evenly.

Next, organize your workspace. Chop the onions, carrots, and celery into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Mince the garlic so it releases its flavor easily. With everything prepped, you’ll create a delicious meal without feeling rushed. The cooking process becomes more enjoyable when you have everything ready, leading to a more relaxed cooking experience.

Ingredients

• 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

Directions

Begin by rinsing the Great Northern beans, ensuring you remove any debris. If you’ve soaked your beans overnight, you’re ready to continue. In a large pot over medium heat, cook the thick-cut bacon until it becomes crispy. Once the bacon reaches the desired level of crispiness, remove it from the pot, leaving the delicious drippings behind.

Next, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté this mixture for about five minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and absorb the savory flavors of the bacon drippings. Afterward, incorporate the minced garlic and continue to sauté for an additional minute, enhancing the aroma in your kitchen.

Return the crispy bacon to the pot along with the soaked Great Northern beans. Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and sprinkle in the dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring this delicious mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat. Let it simmer for about an hour, or until the beans become tender.

Finally, serve your bean with bacon soup hot. Consider garnishing with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Each bowl is a celebration of flavor, reminding you of the heartwarming nature of home cooking.

Elevating Your Bean with Bacon Soup

Technique

Mastering the technique of bean with bacon soup elevates this dish from simple to spectacular. Adjusting cooking times and temperatures can enhance the flavors and textures. When it comes to beans, a slow simmer after boiling allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Also, remember that while bacon adds wonderful flavor, don’t overcook it during the initial step. You want it crispy but not burnt, ensuring the flavor shines through.

Experimenting with your technique can lead to delightful variations. Cooking the vegetables over higher heat for a short time can add a lovely char, deepening the flavor profile. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to allow the ingredients to develop a wonderful caramelization.

Tips/tricks

To achieve the best bean with bacon soup, keep a few helpful tips in mind. Always opt for quality ingredients, as they directly impact the final taste. Choose thick-cut bacon for a heartier texture, and consider using homemade chicken broth if possible. This enhances the richness of the dish.

Soaking beans overnight not only shortens cooking time but also ensures that they cook evenly. If you’re short on time, a quick soak method can work; just boil the beans for a few minutes, remove them from heat, and let them sit for an hour before cooking.

Another valuable trick is to adjust the seasoning at the end. Taste your soup after an hour of simmering. Often, a touch more salt or fresh herbs can bring the flavors to life.

Perfecting Your Bean with Bacon Soup

Perfecting results

Perfecting your bean with bacon soup relies on attention to detail and personal preference. If you crave a thicker soup, consider mashing a portion of the beans against the side of the pot. This technique releases the starches, giving your soup a creamier texture.

For a smooth consistency, consider blending a small amount of the soup and mixing it back in. This technique allows you to achieve a different texture while preserving the delightful pieces of vegetables and bacon.

Another factor affecting results is the simmering time. If you’re after exceptionally tender beans, an additional 10-20 minutes of simmering can make a significant difference. Make adjustments based on your taste preference, as some enjoy beans with a slight bite while others prefer them tender.

Troubleshooting/variations

Every cook encounters challenges, but troubleshooting your bean with bacon soup can lead to delightful discoveries. Sometimes, beans can remain firm even after cooking for an hour. This often results from their age or improper soaking. In such cases, patience is key. Simply add more liquid and continue cooking until they soften.

If the soup turns out saltier than anticipated, adding another cup of low-sodium chicken broth or additional vegetables can balance it out. Play with the flavor profile; if you enjoy spice, consider a pinch of red pepper flakes to carry some heat.

Variations abound with this recipe. Swap in different types of beans, such as cannellini or navy beans. Each variety brings its character to the dish. You might also explore adding seasonal vegetables to keep the recipe fresh and exciting throughout the year.

Serving Your Bean with Bacon Soup

Serving/presentation

How you serve your bean with bacon soup can elevate the overall dining experience. Consider using rustic bowls or bread bowls to create a comforting and inviting presentation. This adds a touch of charm to your meal, enticing family and friends to dig in.

To enhance the visual appeal, garnish your soup with fresh parsley or chives. A splash of color can brighten the dish and create a feast for the eyes. Serving crusty bread or crackers alongside the soup invites your guests to enjoy the delightful broth and creamy beans fully.

Pairings/storage

While the soup stands deliciously alone, pairing it with crusty bread or a simple side salad can round out a meal. Fresh greens with a light vinaigrette can offer a refreshing contrast to the rich, hearty flavors of the soup.

For storage, allow the soup to cool before transferring it into an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to five days. The flavors deepen and develop over time, making leftovers even more enticing. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if necessary to regain its original texture.

Conclusion

Creating a delicious bean with bacon soup offers not just a meal but an experience infused with warmth and tradition. From the first step of soaking the beans to the final sprinkle of fresh parsley, every moment in the kitchen transforms simple ingredients into a soul-soothing dish. The comforting flavors and rich aromas connect us to cherished memories and create new ones around the dining table. This soup stands as a testament to the joy of cooking and sharing nourishing meals with loved ones.

Bean with Bacon Soup

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• Author: cov3
• Total Time: 75 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Paleo

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Description

A comforting classic featuring Great Northern beans and crispy bacon, enriched with aromatic vegetables in a savory broth.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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

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Instructions

1. Rinse the Great Northern beans and soak overnight if using dried beans.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, cook the thick-cut bacon until crispy. Remove and leave drippings in the pot.
3. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
4. Incorporate minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
5. Return the crispy bacon and soaked beans to the pot.
6. Pour in chicken broth and add thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 1 hour or until beans are tender.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

For a creamier texture, mash a portion of the beans or blend a small amount of the soup and mix it back in. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 430
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: soup, bean soup, comfort food, bacon, easy recipes