Rustic White Bean and Bacon Soup
Embrace Comfort with Rustic White Bean and Bacon Soup
There’s something about a warm bowl of soup that instantly brings a sense of comfort and nostalgia. Rustic White Bean and Bacon Soup does just that, blending smoky, savory flavors with hearty ingredients. This is the sort of dish that families rally around on chilly evenings, and it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you still want something soul-satisfying for dinner. Once you experience the delightful harmony of crispy bacon and creamy white beans, you’ll find yourself making it on repeat!
Why you’ll love this dish
This soup is a quintessential comforting meal that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, it’s a budget-friendly choice that brings great value without sacrificing flavor. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a cozy family meal, or even a casual get-together with friends. The best part? It appeals to a wide range of palates, making it a hit among both kids and adults.
"Absolutely love this soup! The combination of flavors is fantastic, and it’s so easy to make. My whole family agrees it’s one of our new favorites!" – A happy home cook
Preparing Rustic White Bean and Bacon Soup
Making this soup is straightforward, and you’ll appreciate how quickly it comes together. It all starts with frying the bacon until it’s perfectly crispy, followed by a sauté of aromatic onions and garlic. After that, a rich broth and beans create the heart of the soup, simmering together to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. And if you choose to add the kale, you’ll finish everything off with a pop of vibrant green. Each step builds on the last, resulting in a hearty dish that’s satisfying in every bowl.
What you’ll need
To ensure you have everything on hand, here’s the list of ingredients you’ll need to gather before you start:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups kale, chopped (optional)
Feel free to swap out the kale for another green of your choice, or even omit it for a simpler version!
Step-by-step instructions
Now that you’re ready, let’s dive into the cooking process:
- Start by cooking the chopped bacon in a large pot over medium heat until it becomes crispy. Once done, remove it from the pot and set it aside, leaving the drippings for added flavor.
- In the same pot, add your diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté just until they begin to soften, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
- Pour in the chicken broth, incorporating those lovely, crispy bits left behind. Add the drained white beans, thyme, and season with salt and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to come together harmoniously.
- If you’re using kale, stir it in at this point and let it wilt into the soup.
- Finally, add the crispy bacon back to the pot, giving it a good stir and adjusting the seasoning before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving Rustic White Bean and Bacon Soup, there are endless possibilities. For a cozy kitchen feel, ladle it into rustic bowls and sprinkle some freshly chopped herbs on top for a pop of color. This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple green salad.
You could also elevate the meal by serving it alongside a cheese platter or a tangy vinaigrette-dressed side salad. The warm flavors of the soup will complement any addition beautifully.
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you find yourself with any leftovers — which is rare, given how delicious this soup is — there are safe and effective ways to store it. Place the cooled soup in an airtight container in the fridge, where it’ll stay good for about 3 to 4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the soup. Just remember to leave some space in your container, as liquids tend to expand when frozen. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.
Helpful cooking tips
- Cook the bacon slowly: This ensures it becomes nice and crispy without burning, allowing for richer flavors.
- Be careful with seasoning: The broth and bacon already pack a punch, so taste before adding too much salt.
- Upgrade your greens: Consider adding a handful of spinach or Swiss chard, or mix in other veggies like carrots for additional nutrients.
Creative twists
Don’t hesitate to experiment with this recipe! You can swap out the white beans for navy beans or cannellini beans for a different texture. If you’re looking for a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing your onions. For a vegetarian version, try using vegetable broth and omitting the bacon—just add some smoked paprika for that savory flavor.
Your questions answered
1. How long does it take to prepare the soup?
The total time to prepare Rustic White Bean and Bacon Soup is around 30 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying choice for dinner.
2. Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes! This soup is even tastier the next day, so it’s great for meal prep. Just store it properly, as mentioned above.
3. What can I serve with this soup?
Serve it with a side of crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even grilled cheese for a satisfying meal.
Creating this Rustic White Bean and Bacon Soup in your own kitchen will not only warm your home but also your heart. Why not give it a try? You might just discover your new favorite comfort food!
Rustic White Bean and Bacon Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the chopped bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. Remove from pot and set aside, leaving drippings.
- In the same pot, add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and aromatic.
- Pour in the chicken broth, incorporating the crispy bits from the pot. Add drained white beans, thyme, and season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 to 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- If using kale, stir it in and let it wilt.
- Add the crispy bacon back to the pot, stir, and adjust seasoning before serving.
