How to make navy bean soup?

How to Make Navy Bean Soup: A Guide to Cooking a Hearty and Delicious Dish

What is Navy Bean Soup?

Navy bean soup, also known as Boston baked beans, is a classic American dish that has been a staple for centuries. It is made with navy beans, onions, garlic, and salt pork or bacon, in a tomato-based broth. The beans are slow-cooked until they are tender and the flavors have melded together, resulting in a rich and comforting soup.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound salt pork or bacon, diced
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon ground mustard
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

• Step 1: Cook the Beans

  • Drain and rinse the navy beans.
  • In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the beans, butter, onion, and garlic.
  • Add 4 cups of water and bring to a boil.
  • Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beans are partially tender.

• Step 2: Cook the Salt Pork or Bacon

  • In a skillet, cook the salt pork or bacon over medium heat until browned and crispy.
  • Remove the cooked meat from the skillet and set aside.

• Step 3: Create the Broth

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  • Add the broth, water, tomato paste, mustard, cumin, salt, and black pepper to the pot with the beans.
  • Stir to combine.
  • Bring the broth to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 45 minutes.

• Step 4: Add the Salt Pork or Bacon and Simmer

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  • Add the cooked salt pork or bacon to the pot and simmer for an additional 15 minutes.

• Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  • Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.

Tips and Variations:

• Use ham hocks or pork rinds instead of salt pork or bacon for a different flavor.
• Add some heat to the soup by incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
• Make it a one-pot meal by adding diced ham, chicken, or turkey to the pot along with the beans and broth.
• Prepare the soup ahead of time by cooking the beans and broth, then reheating when ready to serve.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Navy beans are a low-fat, high-fiber food that can help lower cholesterol and regulate digestion.
• Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C and lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to several health benefits.
• Salt pork or bacon adds a touch of smoky flavor and a bit of protein to the dish.

Table: Nutritional Breakdown

Conclusion:

Navy bean soup is a delicious and comforting dish that can be made in a few simple steps. With its rich flavors and nutritional benefits, it is a great option for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. By following this guide and experimenting with variations, you can create a dish that is sure to become a family favorite.