Looking for a hearty and comforting meal to warm you up on chilly nights? Look no further than this delicious navy bean soup recipe. This classic dish is not only flavorful and satisfying, but also easy to prepare with simple ingredients like navy beans, onions, carrots, and celery. It’s the perfect wholesome dinner idea for any occasion.
To enhance the taste and add an extra burst of flavor, cooked ham hock or bacon can be added to the soup. These additions complement the thyme and bay leaves that give this soup its traditional and comforting flavor. The recipe yields four servings, making it perfect for a small family or for meal prep that can be enjoyed throughout the week.
Whether you are a seasoned cook or new to making soups, this recipe is a must-try. Not only is it delicious and easy to make, but it’s also a staple for many households. It’s a filling and satisfying meal that is perfect for a cozy evening in or any night when you’re in need of a comforting dish. Give it a try and enjoy the warmth and nourishment it provides from the inside out.
Navy Bean Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups (369.3 g) navy beans dried
- 6 cups (1.4 kg) water
- 1 onion chopped
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 carrots chopped
- 2 stalks celery chopped
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon (0.5 teaspoon) black pepper
- 4 cups (953.6 g) vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Soak navy beans overnight
- Drain beans and add to pot with 6 cups water
- Bring to a boil and reduce heat to simmer for 1 hour
- In a separate pan, cook onions and garlic in olive oil until soft
- Add carrots and celery to onions and garlic, cook for 5 minutes
- Add mixture to pot with navy beans
- Add thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper to pot
- Optional: Add ham hock or bacon for added flavor
- Add vegetable broth to pot
- Simmer for another hour or until beans are tender
Notes
Nutrition
Data source: USDA
Storage Tips
This recipe typically lasts for up to 5 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container. If storing in the freezer, it can last for up to 3 months.
To store in the fridge:
1. Let the soup cool to room temperature.
2. Transfer the soup to an airtight container or a sealable plastic bag.
3. Label the container or bag with the date it was made.
4. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
To freeze:
1. Let the soup cool to room temperature.
2. Transfer the soup to a freezer-safe container or a sealable plastic bag.
3. Label the container or bag with the date it was made and the contents.
4. Place the container or bag in the freezer.
To defrost:
1. Remove the soup from the freezer and place it in the fridge overnight to defrost slowly.
2. Alternatively, defrost the soup in the microwave on a low setting.
3. Once the soup has defrosted, transfer it to a pot and heat on the stove until hot.
Note: If using a ham hock or bacon, remove it from the soup before storing or freezing.
Recipe Variations
1. Vegetarian Navy Bean Soup: Remove any meat from the original recipe and replace it with vegetable broth or water. Alternatively, add vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions to create a hearty yet filling vegetarian soup.
2. Ham and Navy Bean Soup: Use ham hocks or leftover ham in the original recipe to add smoky flavor and meaty richness to the soup. Add some diced potatoes for extra heartiness.
3. Slow Cooker Navy Bean Soup: Set the navy bean soup with all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 4-6 hours for a delicious, no-fuss soup.
4. Spicy Navy Bean Soup: Add hot sauce or spicy sausages to the original recipe to create a spicy version of the soup. Adjust the heat level according to your taste preferences.
5. Creamy Navy Bean Soup: Blend the soup until smooth or add cream or milk to the recipe for a velvety, creamy version of the navy bean soup. Top with cheese, croutons, or herbs for added flavor.
6. Mediterranean Navy Bean Soup: Add tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese to the original recipe for a Mediterranean twist to the navy bean soup. Serve with pita bread or crackers on the side.
What To Serve With
– Bread: a warm loaf of crusty bread or cornbread goes great with soup
– Salad: a fresh green salad with a simple dressing complements the heartiness of the soup
– Crackers: plain or seasoned crackers make a crunchy side to dip or crush into the soup
– Cheese: a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese adds extra flavor and richness
– Vegetables: roasted or steamed veggies such as carrots, broccoli, or cauliflower make a nutritious accompaniment
– Meat: if you want a main dish, you can add some cooked sausage, ham, or bacon to the soup or serve it alongside a protein dish such as grilled chicken or fish.
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