Introduction to White Bean Soup with Turkey Bacon
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as warm and inviting as white bean soup with turkey bacon. This hearty soup offers a delightful blend of creaminess and savory goodness that wraps you in a cozy embrace with every spoonful. Packed with nutrients from the beans and enriched by the smoky flavor of turkey bacon, this dish checks all the boxes for a fulfilling meal.
Why is white bean soup considered the ultimate comfort food? First, it has a rich, creamy texture that feels indulgent without being heavy. White beans are an excellent source of protein and fiber, making them both satisfying and nutritious. Combined with the lean yet flavorful turkey bacon, this soup transforms into a balanced dish that warms you from the inside out.
Moreover, there's something undeniably comforting about slow-cooked meals that fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas, creating a homey atmosphere perfect for those chilly evenings. Whether you're tackling a busy weeknight or hosting friends, this white bean soup is not only straightforward to prepare but also versatile enough for leftovers. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy!
If you're curious about the recipe, read on to discover how to create your own delightful pot of white bean soup!
Ingredients for White Bean Soup with Turkey Bacon
Creating a hearty and flavorful white bean soup with bacon doesn't just depend on the cooking method; it starts with quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Ingredients
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1 pound dry Great Northern white beans: These beans are the star of the soup, bringing a creamy texture and mild flavor.
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5 ounces turkey bacon: Substitute traditional bacon for turkey bacon for a lighter twist without sacrificing taste.
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1 large onion: About 2 cups of chopped onion adds rich flavor to the base of your soup.
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2 ribs of celery: Approximately ¾ cup, finely chopped, brings a pleasant crunch.
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1 large carrot: A peeled and chopped carrot (¾ cup) adds sweetness to balance the savory elements.
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3 cloves of garlic: Minced for that aromatic kick, about 1 tablespoon.
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6 cups chicken stock: This will serve as the flavorful liquid foundation of your soup.
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2 bay leaves and 1 tablespoon fresh thyme: Essential herbs that enhance the overall taste.
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Kosher salt and black pepper: Season to taste, enhancing the dish’s flavors.
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3 tablespoons tomato paste: Adds depth and a beautiful color to the soup.
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½ teaspoon paprika: A dash to bring everything together with a smoky note.
These ingredients not only create a delicious meal but also provide a comforting, nutritious experience. For more tips on selecting quality beans, you might want to check out The Bean Institute, a resource dedicated to all things beans!
Preparing White Bean Soup with Turkey Bacon
Making a delicious white bean soup with turkey bacon is a wonderful way to bring warmth and flavor to your kitchen. Let's break it down step by step, so you can enjoy this comforting dish with ease!
Drain and Soak the Beans
To begin your soup adventure, it’s important to prep your white beans properly. If you’re using dry Great Northern beans, start by draining and rinsing them after soaking them overnight. The soaking process softens the beans, which helps them cook faster. No time for an overnight soak? No problem! You can boil the beans in water for a minute, then let them sit covered for about an hour, then drain. This little technique saves precious time without sacrificing flavor.
Cook the Turkey Bacon and Sauté Vegetables
Grab your trusty Dutch oven and heat it over medium-high heat. Add the turkey bacon, allowing it to cook for a few minutes until it starts to get crispy. The fats rendered from the bacon will give a savory base to our soup. After the bacon has cooked, toss in your chopped onion, celery, and carrot—these veggies are known as the mirepoix, a classic base for soups. Reduce the heat and cover, cooking until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 12 to 15 minutes. Add the minced garlic towards the end for an aromatic touch!
Combine Ingredients and Simmer
Once your veggies are tender, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the drained beans to your pot, followed by the chicken stock, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Increase the heat to bring everything to a simmer, then lower it again to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover partially and let it cook for about an hour. This allows the beans to become gloriously soft and flavorful, infusing the soup with their goodness.
Add Tomato Paste and Seasonings
After the beans are soft, stir in the tomato paste and sprinkle in some paprika. This will deepen the flavor and add a hint of sweetness. Allow this to cook together for another five minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors.
Puree Part of the Soup
With your soup feeling cozy and aromatic, it’s time to use an immersion blender. Carefully remove the bay leaves, then blend about half of the soup until it reaches a creamy consistency. You want a balance of texture—not too smooth but still creamy. Adjust salt and pepper for a perfect taste.
Final Touches and Serving
Before serving your white bean soup with turkey bacon, consider adding a sprinkle of crumbled cooked turkey bacon on top for that delightful crunch. A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only brightens the dish visually but adds freshness to each bite. Enjoy your soup warm, alongside crusty bread, perfect for dipping!
This hearty soup makes for excellent leftovers too, so don’t hesitate to make a large batch. Did you know? Soups often taste better the next day, giving time for flavors to deepen. Happy cooking!
For more hearty dishes, take a look at our other comforting recipes on Simply Recipes and get inspired for your next culinary adventure!
Variations on White Bean Soup with Turkey Bacon
Creamy White Bean Soup Option
If you’re in the mood for something a bit more luxurious, consider blending a portion of your white bean soup with turkey bacon until it reaches a velvety texture. You can also stir in some heavy cream or coconut milk during the final minutes of cooking for an additional layer of richness. This creamy twist pairs beautifully with crunchy croutons or a sprinkle of freshly grated cheese!
Spicy White Bean Soup Twist
For those who like a kick, elevate your white bean soup with turkey bacon by adding a teaspoon or two of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. Let those flavors meld in for an extra dimension of heat! You could also finish it off with a splash of lime juice or a dollop of spicy salsa to brighten the dish. It's an exciting way to change up this comforting classic!
For more variations on white beans, check out these creative recipes!
Cooking Tips for White Bean Soup with Turkey Bacon
When making white bean soup with turkey bacon, preparation is key to a delicious outcome. Start by soaking your dry Great Northern beans overnight; this enhances flavor and helps them cook more evenly. If you're short on time, try the quick soak method by boiling and resting the beans for an hour.
Use a thick-bottomed pot, like a Dutch oven, to ensure even heat distribution while cooking your turkey bacon and vegetables. This technique prevents sticking and burning. Finally, don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning! Taste and tweak the salt and pepper before serving. Enjoy your hearty meal!
For more tips on preparing great soups, check out Simply Recipes’ Winter Soups for delicious, cozy ideas!
Serving suggestions for White Bean Soup with Turkey Bacon
When it comes to enjoying your delicious white bean soup with bacon, presentation can elevate your meal to new heights. Consider these serving suggestions to keep it fun and hearty:
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Garnish Wisely: Sprinkle with crumbled, crispy turkey bacon and a handful of freshly chopped parsley. This adds a pop of color and extra flavor.
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Complementary Sides: Pair your soup with crusty bread or homemade garlic breadsticks for a delightful crunch. A light side salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette can provide a refreshing balance.
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Flavor Boosters: For an extra kick, offer toppings like grated Parmesan cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or even hot sauce for those who enjoy a spicy touch.
Feeling adventurous? You could even serve it in bread bowls for a fun twist! Enjoy!
For more comforting recipes, check out options like Creamy Tomato Soup and Beef Stew.
Time Breakdown for White Bean Soup with Turkey Bacon
Preparation Time
The prep time for this delicious white bean soup with bacon takes about 15 minutes. This includes the time you'll spend chopping the vegetables and prepping your ingredients.
Cooking Time
Once everything is ready, the cooking will take approximately 90 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the beans to become tender.
Total Time
In total, you’re looking at about 9 hours and 45 minutes, which includes soaking the beans overnight (or using a quick soak method if you're short on time). This might seem lengthy, but it's mostly passive time! Just imagine enjoying a warm, hearty bowl of soup after a busy day—the wait will be worth it!
Feel free to explore more about cooking beans on The Bean Institute for tips and tricks! And don’t forget, once you master this recipe, you’ll have a comforting go-to for chilly evenings.
Nutritional Facts for White Bean Soup with Turkey Bacon
When you're preparing a comforting white bean soup with turkey bacon, it's essential to understand its nutritional profile. Here's a quick breakdown:
Calories
Each serving of this delicious soup contains approximately 380 calories, making it a hearty option for lunch or dinner without overwhelming your daily intake.
Protein
Packed with nourishment, this soup provides around 24 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the combination of beans and turkey bacon. It's a great way to support muscle health while enjoying a cozy meal.
Sodium
Keep an eye on your sodium intake! This recipe has about 1,200 mg of sodium per serving, primarily from the chicken stock and added salt. Adjust the salt levels based on your dietary preferences or opt for low-sodium stock if preferred.
Making a healthy meal doesn't have to be complicated! For more insights on nutritious meals, check out Healthy Eating and explore ways to enhance your culinary journey while keeping your meals balanced. Enjoy your cooking!
FAQs about White Bean Soup with Turkey Bacon
Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
Absolutely! If you're short on time, you can substitute dried beans with three to four (15-ounce) cans of drained white beans. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time to about 15 minutes in Step 3. This quick fix still delivers delicious, hearty flavors in your white bean soup with bacon.
How long will the soup last in the fridge?
Your lovely white bean soup with turkey bacon will keep well in the fridge for up to four days. In fact, many say it tastes even better the next day! For longer storage, consider freezing it in a safe container for up to three months.
What to serve with white bean soup?
Complement your white bean soup with bacon by pairing it with a fresh green salad or crusty bread. A side of roasted vegetables or a light quinoa salad can also elevate your meal. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream on top for that extra touch! For more serving ideas, check out this guide on soup pairings.
Conclusion on White Bean Soup with Turkey Bacon
In summary, this white bean soup with turkey bacon is not only nourishing but also a comforting dish that can easily become a family favorite. With rich flavors and creamy textures, it’s perfect for cozy nights in or batch cooking for the week ahead. Enjoy the heartiness!
White Bean Soup With Bacon
Equipment
- Immersion blender
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 pound dry Great Northern white beans covered with a couple inches of water and soaked overnight
- 5 ounces bacon cut into ½-inch-wide pieces
- 2 cups onion chopped
- ¾ cup celery chopped
- ¾ cup carrot peeled and chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 6 cups chicken stock
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
- 2.5 teaspoons kosher salt plus more to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper plus more to taste
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ teaspoon paprika
For Serving
- 1 ounce bacon cooked and crumbled for garnish, optional
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish, optional
Instructions
Steps
- Drain the beans: Drain the beans that have been soaking in water.
- Cook the bacon and the vegetables: Put the bacon into a large Dutch oven on medium-high heat, cook for a minute, then add onion, celery, and carrot, cover and cook for 12 to 15 minutes.
- Add the beans, stock, seasonings, then simmer: Add drained beans, stock, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, lower heat and cook for 1 hour.
- Add the tomato paste and paprika: Stir in tomato paste and paprika, cook for 5 more minutes.
- Puree half the soup: Remove bay leaves and puree most of the soup with an immersion blender.
- Store: Refrigerate for up to four days or freeze for up to three months.
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