Craving a warm and comforting meal that’s both hearty and satisfying? Look no further than our delicious Bacon and Beans Soup recipe. Packed with flavors that will make your taste buds sing, this soup is perfect for cozy nights in or casual gatherings with friends and family. Let’s dive into how to create this mouthwatering dish step by step.
**Bacon and Beans Soup**
**Ingredients:**
– 6 slices of bacon, chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 2 cans (15 oz each) of cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy and renders its fat, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté it with the bacon until it softens and becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
3. Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. The aroma will fill your kitchen with enticing scents.
4. Stir in the chopped carrots and celery, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until they start to soften slightly. This will add a wonderful depth of flavor and color to your soup.
5. Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices, stirring well to combine with the ingredients in the pot. Let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Add the drained and rinsed cannellini beans to the pot, stirring gently to incorporate them with the rest of the ingredients. They will add a creamy texture and protein to your soup.
7. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, followed by the dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Give everything a good stir.
8. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, partially covered, for about 20-25 minutes. This will allow all the ingredients to marry together and develop rich flavors.
9. Once the soup has simmered and thickened slightly, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your palate.
10. Serve the Bacon and Beans Soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley on top. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Enjoy this hearty Bacon and Beans Soup on a chilly day or whenever you need a comforting bowl of goodness. It’s a versatile dish that can be easily customized with your favorite ingredients. With simple steps and flavorful results, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your collection of cozy homemade meals.
