This Applewood Bacon and White Bean Soup Recipe combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the creamy texture of white beans for a hearty and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for chilly evenings and can be made in under an hour.
The recipe is simple and utilizes common ingredients, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering.
Hearty White Bean and Bacon Soup
This soup features tender white beans simmered with Applewood bacon, vegetables, and herbs, creating a rich and flavorful broth. The recipe takes about 45 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 6 slices Applewood bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon: In a large pot, cook the chopped Applewood bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add Broth and Beans: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, and add the drained white beans, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Season: Remove the bay leaf and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the cooked bacon just before serving.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy hot with crusty bread.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 bowls
- Calories: 290kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 30g