White Bean Soup Bacon: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

White Bean Soup with Bacon: Prepare to be transported to a cozy countryside kitchen with this hearty and flavorful recipe! Imagine a chilly evening, the aroma of smoky bacon filling the air, and a warm bowl of creamy soup in your hands. This isn’t just any soup; it’s a culinary hug that nourishes both body and soul.

White bean soup, in its various forms, has been a staple in many cultures for centuries. From the rustic kitchens of Italy to the comforting tables of New England, this humble soup has a rich history of providing sustenance and warmth. The addition of bacon elevates this classic dish, adding a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined with care, can create something truly extraordinary.

People adore white bean soup with bacon for its incredible taste and satisfying texture. The creamy beans, the salty bacon, and the savory broth create a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. It’s also incredibly convenient to make, perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend gathering. Plus, it’s packed with protein and fiber, making it a healthy and delicious choice. So, are you ready to experience the magic of this comforting classic? Let’s get cooking!

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 bay leaf
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice, or more to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Crusty bread, for serving

Preparing the Beans:

Before we dive into the soup-making process, let’s get those beans ready. Dried beans need a little bit of love and attention before they’re ready to be simmered into deliciousness. I prefer the overnight soak method, but I’ll also give you a quick soak option if you’re short on time.

Overnight Soak:

1. Place the rinsed Great Northern beans in a large bowl or pot.
2. Cover the beans with at least 8 cups of cold water. Make sure the water level is well above the beans, as they will expand as they soak.
3. Let the beans soak for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight, at room temperature.
4. Drain the soaked beans and rinse them thoroughly before using.

Quick Soak:

1. Place the rinsed Great Northern beans in a large pot.
2. Cover the beans with at least 8 cups of cold water.
3. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
4. Boil the beans for 2 minutes.
5. Remove the pot from the heat, cover it, and let the beans soak for 1 hour.
6. Drain the soaked beans and rinse them thoroughly before using.

Sautéing the Aromatics and Bacon:

Now for the fun part! This is where we build the flavor base for our soup. The combination of bacon, onions, carrots, celery, and garlic creates a symphony of aromas that will make your kitchen smell amazing.

1. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced bacon and cook until it’s crispy and has rendered its fat. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the bacon from the pot with a slotted spoon and set it aside. Leave the bacon fat in the pot – that’s liquid gold!
4. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried 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!

Simmering the Soup:

This is where the magic happens. We’ll combine the sautéed aromatics with the beans and broth and let it all simmer together until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded.

1. Add the drained and rinsed beans to the pot with the vegetables.
2. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure the beans are completely submerged.
3. Add the bay leaf.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the beans are very tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the beans from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
5. Check the beans periodically. If the broth is reducing too quickly, add more chicken broth or water as needed.

Pureeing and Finishing the Soup:

To achieve that creamy, comforting texture, we’ll puree a portion of the soup. This step is optional, but I highly recommend it. It really elevates the soup to the next level. We’ll also add some finishing touches to brighten the flavors.

1. Remove about 2 cups of the soup from the pot and set it aside.
2. Using an immersion blender, carefully puree the remaining soup in the pot until it’s smooth or slightly chunky, depending on your preference. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches and puree it. Be very careful when blending hot liquids!
3. Return the reserved soup to the pot. This will add some texture back into the soup.
4. Stir in the cooked bacon and the dry white wine (if using).
5. 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.
6. Stir in the lemon juice. This will brighten the flavors and add a touch of acidity. Taste and add more lemon juice if desired.
7. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Serving:

Now for the best part – enjoying your delicious White Bean and Bacon Soup! I love to serve it with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley and a side of crusty bread for dipping.

1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley.
3. Serve with crusty bread.

Tips and Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add a tablespoon of smoked paprika to give the soup a smoky flavor.
• Spice it Up: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier soup.
• Add Greens: Stir in some chopped kale or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and flavor.
• Thicken the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the beans with a fork before pureeing.
• Make it Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually improve as it sits!
• Freezing: White Bean and Bacon Soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Type of Beans: While Great Northern beans are my favorite for this soup, you can also use cannellini beans or navy beans.
• Broth Quality: The quality of your chicken broth will greatly impact the flavor of the soup. I recommend using a good quality, low-sodium chicken broth. You can also use homemade chicken broth if you have it.
• Bacon Choice: I prefer using thick-cut bacon for this soup, but any type of bacon will work. You can also use pancetta for a slightly different flavor.

Why This Recipe Works:

This White Bean and Bacon Soup recipe is a winner because it’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and incredibly comforting. The combination of the creamy beans, smoky bacon, and aromatic vegetables creates a truly satisfying soup. The lemon juice adds a bright, refreshing touch that balances the richness of the bacon. And the best part? It’s a versatile recipe that you can easily customize to your liking.

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do! Let me know in the comments below if you have any questions or if you try it out. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

This White Bean Soup with Bacon isn’t just another soup recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a comforting classic elevated with smoky bacon and creamy white beans. I truly believe this is a must-try because it’s incredibly easy to make, packed with flavor, and satisfying enough for a hearty lunch or dinner. The combination of the earthy beans, savory bacon, and aromatic herbs creates a symphony of tastes that will leave you wanting more. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel good from the inside out, perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a little culinary comfort.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! While I love it exactly as written, there are so many ways to customize it to your liking. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to mimic that smoky flavor. You could also add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or kale for extra nutrients and texture. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens up the flavors beautifully.

Serving Suggestions:

* Serve with a crusty loaf of bread for dipping into the delicious 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.
* Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
* Pair it with a simple green salad for a complete and balanced meal.

Variations to Explore:

* Spicy White Bean Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño to the soup while it’s simmering.
* Tuscan White Bean Soup: Add some chopped tomatoes, spinach, and a drizzle of olive oil for a Tuscan-inspired twist.
* White Bean and Sausage Soup: Substitute the bacon with Italian sausage for a heartier and spicier soup.
* Creamy White Bean Soup: Blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender for a creamier texture.

I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s a simple, wholesome, and incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The rich, savory broth, the tender white beans, and the crispy bacon create a truly unforgettable culinary experience. This White Bean Soup Bacon recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to slow down, savor the moment, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece! I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the deliciousness for yourself.

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you make any variations? What did you think of the flavor? Share your photos and comments in the comments section below. I can’t wait to see your creations and hear your feedback. Happy cooking! I hope this becomes a staple in your kitchen, just like it is in mine.

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