White Bean Soup Bacon: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

White Bean Soup with Bacon: Is there anything more comforting on a chilly evening? Imagine a creamy, hearty soup, brimming with tender white beans and punctuated by the smoky, savory goodness of bacon. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, and I’m so excited to share my version with you!

White bean soup, in its various forms, has been a staple in kitchens around the world for centuries. From the ribollita of Tuscany to the hearty bean stews of South America, humble white beans have nourished generations. The addition of bacon, a relatively modern twist, elevates this classic dish to a new level of deliciousness, adding depth and richness that’s simply irresistible.

People adore white bean soup with bacon for its incredible flavor profile. The creamy texture of the beans contrasts beautifully with the crispy bacon, creating a symphony of textures in every spoonful. It’s also incredibly versatile and convenient. You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your dietary needs and preferences, and it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover ingredients. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze! So, get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food – you won’t be disappointed!

this RECIPE

Ingredients:

• 1 pound dried Great Northern beans, rinsed
• 10 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 8 ounces bacon, diced
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Preparing the Beans:

Okay, let’s get started! First things first, we need to tackle those dried beans. Rinsing them is crucial to remove any debris or little stones that might have snuck in. Trust me, you don’t want to bite down on a rock in your soup!

1. Soaking the Beans: There are two main methods for soaking beans: the overnight soak and the quick soak. I usually prefer the overnight soak because it helps the beans cook more evenly and reduces cooking time. To do this, place the rinsed beans in a large bowl or pot and cover them with at least 2 inches of cold water. Let them soak for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight. If you’re short on time, the quick soak method works too. Place the rinsed beans in a large pot, cover them with water, bring to a boil, and then boil for 2 minutes. Remove from the heat, cover, and let them soak for 1 hour.
2. Draining and Rinsing Again: After soaking, drain the beans in a colander and rinse them thoroughly under cold running water. This helps remove any compounds that can cause, well, you know… gas!

Cooking the Bacon and Aromatics:

Now for the fun part – building flavor! The bacon is going to be our star here, rendering its delicious fat and adding a smoky depth to the soup. The aromatics will then layer on even more complexity.

1. Rendering the Bacon: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy and has rendered most of its fat. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Be patient and don’t rush it; you want that bacon nice and golden brown.
2. Removing Excess Bacon Fat: Using a slotted spoon, remove the crispy bacon from the pot and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels. We’ll add it back in later. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot – this is liquid gold! If you have too much fat, carefully pour some off.
3. Sautéing the Aromatics: Add the olive oil to the pot with the bacon fat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This is called a mirepoix, and it’s a classic flavor base for soups and stews.
4. Adding the Garlic and Spices: Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, rosemary, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pot. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Simmering the Soup:

This is where the magic happens! We’re going to combine all the ingredients and let them simmer together, allowing the flavors to meld and the beans to become tender.

1. Adding the Beans and Broth: Add the drained and rinsed beans and chicken broth to the pot. Make sure the beans are completely submerged in the broth. If needed, add a little more broth or water.
2. Adding the Bay Leaves: Add the bay leaves. These add a subtle but important layer of flavor to the soup.
3. Bringing to a Simmer: Bring the soup to a simmer over medium-high heat. Once it’s simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the beans from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
4. Checking for Tenderness: After 1 1/2 hours, check the beans for tenderness. They should be easily pierced with a fork. If they’re still firm, continue to simmer for another 30 minutes or until tender. Cooking time can vary depending on the age and type of beans.
5. Seasoning: Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember that the bacon and broth already contain salt, so start with a small amount and add more as needed.

Thickening the Soup (Optional):

Some people prefer a thicker soup, while others like it more brothy. Here are a couple of ways to thicken the soup if you desire.

1. Using an Immersion Blender: For a creamy soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup directly in the pot. Blend until you reach your desired consistency. Be careful not to over-blend, as this can make the soup gummy.
2. Removing and Blending a Portion: Alternatively, you can remove about 2 cups of the soup and blend it in a regular blender until smooth. Then, return the blended soup to the pot and stir to combine. This method gives you more control over the texture.
3. Mashing Some Beans: Another simple way to thicken the soup is to use a potato masher to mash some of the beans directly in the pot. This releases starch and thickens the soup naturally.

Finishing and Serving:

Almost there! Now it’s time to add the final touches and get ready to enjoy your delicious white bean soup.

1. Adding the Bacon Back In: Stir the crispy bacon back into the soup. This adds a wonderful smoky flavor and textural contrast.
2. Removing the Bay Leaves: Remove the bay leaves before serving. They’ve done their job!
3. Garnishing: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also brighten the flavors.
4. Serving: Serve the soup hot with crusty bread for dipping. It’s also delicious with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of olive oil.

Tips and Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: To make this soup vegetarian, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor of the bacon.
• Adding Greens: Stir in some chopped kale, spinach, or Swiss chard during the last 15 minutes of cooking for added nutrients and flavor.
• Using Different Beans: You can substitute other types of white beans, such as cannellini beans or navy beans, for the Great Northern beans.
• Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier soup.
• Make it Ahead: This soup is even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: White bean soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this hearty and flavorful white bean soup with bacon. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a chilly day. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

This White Bean Soup with Bacon isn’t just another soup recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a flavor explosion that’s surprisingly simple to create, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I truly believe this is a must-try recipe for anyone looking for comfort food that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutrition. The creamy white beans, smoky bacon, and aromatic vegetables create a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. It’s hearty enough to be a satisfying meal on its own, yet light enough to enjoy year-round.

But what truly sets this soup apart is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different types of white beans – Cannellini, Great Northern, or Navy beans all work beautifully. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and add a tablespoon of smoked paprika to achieve that smoky depth. You could also add other vegetables like kale, spinach, or diced carrots for extra nutrients and texture.

Serving Suggestions:

* Serve with a crusty loaf of bread for dipping into the creamy broth.
* Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added richness.
* Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
* A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a touch of heat for those who like a little kick.
* For a more substantial meal, add cooked pasta or rice to the soup.

Variations to Explore:

* Spicy White Bean Soup: Add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup while it’s simmering.
* Lemon-Herb White Bean Soup: Stir in a tablespoon of lemon juice and a handful of chopped fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and oregano at the end of cooking.
* White Bean and Sausage Soup: Substitute the bacon with Italian sausage for a heartier and spicier flavor.
* Creamy Tomato White Bean Soup: Add a can of diced tomatoes to the soup for a tangy and vibrant twist.

I’m confident that once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or any occasion that calls for a comforting and delicious meal. The combination of simple ingredients and easy preparation makes it accessible to cooks of all skill levels.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to experience the magic of this White Bean Soup Bacon recipe. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

And most importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you make any variations? What did you think of the flavor? Share your photos and comments below – I’m always eager to see your culinary creations and learn from your experiences. Happy cooking! I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do. It’s a true testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly extraordinary. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own!