My navy bean soup –Navy bean soup is a classic dish that embodies comfort and nourishment. This heartwarming soup, made from navy beans, typically features a rich broth infused with savory ingredients and herbs. Below, we delve into one of the best homemade navy bean soup recipes, capturing its essence and delectable flavors.
Hearty Navy Bean Soup
This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with wholesome ingredients. Perfect for a cold day or when you need a filling meal, this navy bean soup will leave you satisfied.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried navy beans, rinsed and sorted
- 8 cups of water or vegetable broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 cup diced ham or bacon for added flavor
Instructions:
- In a large pot, combine the rinsed navy beans and water or broth. Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer for about an hour or until the beans are tender.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaves, and thyme to the pot. If using, add the diced ham or bacon at this stage for a richer flavor.
- Continue to simmer the soup for an additional 30-40 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to become tender.
- Once the vegetables are tender, remove the bay leaves. For a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender, or leave it chunky for a heartier feel.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or with crusty bread on the side.
Enjoy this hearty navy bean soup on a chilly evening or as a nutritious meal any time of the year. It truly encapsulates the heart and soul of home-cooked goodness.