This hearty and flavorful soup combines tender white beans, smoky bacon, and creamy potatoes, creating a comforting meal perfect for any time of year. The addition of fresh parsley brightens the soup, while the bacon adds a rich, savory touch. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying dish. If the soup thickens too much, simply add a bit of water or broth to adjust the consistency.
Did You Know?
White beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, helping to keep you feeling full and supporting digestive health. They have a mild, creamy texture that blends beautifully with the rich flavors of bacon and potatoes in this soup, making it both hearty and nutritious.
Yield:
8 servings
Ingredients:
8 slices of bacon, chopped
1 large onion, diced
1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into small pieces
3 cans (15 ounces each) white beans, such as cannellini or navy beans, drained and rinsed
6 cups chicken broth
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
Instructions:
Cook the bacon: Heat a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 8 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
Personal Tip: Cooking the bacon first creates a flavorful base for the soup, infusing the broth with a delicious smoky taste.
Sauté the onion: In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Personal Tip: Sautéing the onion in the bacon fat enhances the flavor, making the soup richer and more aromatic.
Combine ingredients: Stir in the diced potatoes, drained and rinsed white beans, and chicken broth. Add the bay leaf and bring the mixture to a boil.
Personal Tip: Using canned beans saves time and still provides a creamy texture to the soup.
Simmer the soup: Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally.
Personal Tip: If the soup becomes too thick during cooking, add water or more broth in 1/2-cup increments until the desired consistency is reached.
Season and serve: Remove the bay leaf and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with the crispy bacon and chopped parsley.
Personal Tip: A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can brighten the flavors and balance the richness of the soup.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 250, Protein: 13g, Carbohydrates: 28g, Fiber: 6g, Net Carbohydrates: 22g, Fat: 9g, Saturated Fat: 3g, Cholesterol: 15mg, Sodium: 600mg, Sugars: 2g, Glycemic Index: Low
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
- Use leftover bacon grease: Instead of discarding bacon grease, store it in a jar and use it for sautéing vegetables in other recipes, adding extra flavor.
- Stretch the soup: To make the soup more budget-friendly, reduce the amount of bacon and increase the amount of beans and potatoes.
- Add extra greens: Stir in chopped spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added vitamins and minerals.
- Choose canned beans: Canned beans save time and eliminate the need for soaking or cooking beans from scratch. Rinsing them reduces excess sodium.
- Bulk it up: Add diced carrots or celery to the sautéed onion for more volume and nutrition without increasing the cost significantly.
- Freeze portions: This soup freezes well. Divide leftovers into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Adjust salt carefully: Bacon can be quite salty, so taste the soup before adding extra salt to avoid over-seasoning.
- Store fresh herbs: Store parsley in a glass of water in the fridge to keep it fresh longer, ensuring you always have it on hand for garnishing.
- Use a potato masher: For a thicker consistency, use a potato masher to break up some of the potatoes directly in the pot.
- Serve with crusty bread: Serve the soup with a side of homemade or store-bought crusty bread for a complete, satisfying meal.
Let’s Learn About Bacon: What to Watch For
When choosing bacon, look for options that are labeled as “uncured” or “nitrate-free.” These varieties use natural preservatives like celery powder instead of artificial nitrates or nitrites, which some people prefer to avoid. Bacon that’s labeled as “no added sugar” can also be a better choice if you’re watching your sugar intake. Always check the ingredient list—shorter is better. Ideally, you want bacon with simple ingredients like pork, salt, and a natural preservative. Opting for high-quality bacon can make a big difference in the flavor of your dishes, and choosing brands with fewer additives means a cleaner, more natural taste.