What ingredients do I need to make bean bacon soup?

To make bean bacon soup, you’ll typically need dried or canned beans (such as navy or pinto beans), bacon strips, onions, garlic, carrots, celery, chicken or vegetable broth, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and thyme. Some recipes also include potatoes or smoked paprika to add depth. Using soaked beans speeds up cooking, while bacon lends a smoky, savory flavor essential to the dish.

How do I cook bean bacon soup so the beans are perfectly tender?

For tender beans, soak dried beans in water overnight or use the quick-soak method by boiling them for 1-2 minutes and letting them sit covered for an hour. Drain and rinse the beans before cooking. Simmer the beans in broth or water for about 1-1.5 hours until they are soft but not mushy. Adding acidic ingredients like tomatoes should be done toward the end, as acids can toughen beans during cooking.

Can I make bean bacon soup vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian or vegan version by omitting bacon and using smoked paprika or liquid smoke to replicate the smoky flavor. Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or vegan bacon alternatives for extra texture. This way, you maintain a rich, hearty taste without animal products.

How should I store leftover bean bacon soup, and how long does it last?

Store leftover bean bacon soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, stir well and add a splash of broth or water if it has thickened too much. For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating thoroughly.

What are some popular toppings or additions for bean bacon soup?

Popular toppings for bean bacon soup include shredded cheese, chopped green onions, sour cream, crumbled bacon, or fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce to brighten flavors. Some recipes include cooked diced potatoes or kale for extra nutrition and texture. These additions allow customization based on personal taste.

Bean Bacon Soup Recipe 5 Easy Steps For Rich Flavor

Ingredients

– 8 oz (about 225g) cherry hardwood smoked bacon, diced

– 1 cup (about 150g) diced yellow onions

– 1 cup (about 120g) diced carrots

– 1 cup (about 100g) diced celery

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 4 cups (about 950ml) chicken broth

– 3 cans (15 oz / 425g each) great northern beans, drained and rinsed

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1 can (8 oz / 225g) tomato sauce

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Instructions

1-Cook the diced bacon in a soup pot until crisp. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and drain it on a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve about 2 tablespoons of the bacon grease in the pot.

2-Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery to the reserved bacon grease. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

3-Pour in the chicken broth and add the drained and rinsed beans. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1 hour.

4-Remove half the soup, blend it until smooth, and stir it back into the pot for a creamy consistency.

5-Stir in the tomato sauce and three-quarters of the cooked bacon, then simmer for 5 more minutes and adjust seasoning.

6-Serve hot, topped with the reserved crispy bacon for extra crunch.

Notes

🥓 Use real smoked bacon for authentic smoky flavor.
🍲 Puree half the soup for natural creaminess without dairy.
🍅 Tomato sauce enriches the soup’s flavor with a rich depth.

Author: Brandi Oshea
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Simmering and blending
Cuisine: American