in INSTANT POT DINNER RECIPES

Navy Bean Soup

Savor Comfort with Navy Bean Soup

Embrace the warmth and comfort of a hearty bowl of Navy Bean Soup. Perfect for chilly evenings or lazy weekends, this classic dish is a staple in many households for its simplicity and nourishing qualities. Packed with protein-rich navy beans, savory bacon, and aromatic vegetables, this soup is a wholesome meal that will satisfy your cravings and soothe your soul. Join us as we explore the steps to creating this delicious soup, along with variations to suit different dietary preferences.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight
  • 4 slices bacon, chopped (optional)
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 ham hock (or smoked turkey leg)
  • 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Thyme sprigs (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Soak Beans: Rinse the dried navy beans and soak them in water overnight. This will help soften the beans and reduce cooking time.
  2. Cook Bacon (Optional): In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
  3. Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot with the bacon fat, add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Add Beans and Ham Hock: Drain the soaked navy beans and add them to the pot along with the ham hock (or smoked turkey leg).
  5. Pour Broth: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring that the beans and ham hock are fully submerged.
  6. Season: Add the bay leaf, thyme sprigs (or dried thyme), and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded together.
  8. Remove Ham Hock: Once the soup is cooked, remove the ham hock from the pot and discard any bones or excess fat. Shred the meat and return it to the pot.
  9. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt and pepper as desired.
  10. Serve: Ladle the Navy Bean Soup into bowls, garnish with chopped parsley and crispy bacon (if using), and serve hot. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this delicious soup!

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Vegetarian Version: Omit the bacon and ham hock, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly option. Add smoked paprika or liquid smoke to enhance the smoky flavor.
  • Slow Cooker Method: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the beans are tender.
  • Creamy Variation: For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender before serving. Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for added richness.

Keto and Low Carb Versions:

Keto Version:

  • Bean Substitute: Replace the navy beans with low-carb alternatives such as cauliflower florets, chopped cabbage, or diced turnips to reduce carb content.
  • Bacon Option: Use bacon as per the original recipe or opt for turkey bacon as a leaner alternative.
  • Broth Choice: Choose a low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth to control the salt content.

Low Carb Version:

  • Bean Substitute: Omit the navy beans entirely or replace them with a small amount of black soybeans or lentils for a lower carb option.
  • Vegetable Focus: Increase the quantity of vegetables such as carrots, celery, and onions to add bulk and flavor to the soup while keeping carbs in check.
  • Lean Protein: Use lean protein sources such as boneless, skinless chicken breast or turkey breast instead of bacon or ham hock.

In conclusion, Navy Bean Soup is a timeless classic that offers comfort, warmth, and nourishment in every spoonful. With its rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and versatility, this soup is a must-have in your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal on a cold winter’s day or looking for a nutritious dish to feed your family, Navy Bean Soup is sure to delight. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and treat yourself to a bowl of homemade goodness today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use canned navy beans instead of dried beans? A: While canned navy beans can be used as a shortcut, they may result in a slightly different texture compared to dried beans. If using canned beans, rinse and drain them before adding them to the soup.

Q: Can I freeze Navy Bean Soup? A: Yes, Navy Bean Soup freezes well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat the soup gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.