How do You make navy bean soup?

How Do You Make Navy Bean Soup?

Navy bean soup is a comforting and delicious dish that is perfect for a chilly day. This hearty soup is made with navy beans, which are small, white beans that are high in protein and fiber. The soup is typically made with a combination of vegetables, aromatics, and spices, and can be served with a variety of toppings, such as crusty bread, crackers, or a sprinkle of grated cheese.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 large potato, peeled and chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Navy Beans

• Drain and rinse the navy beans and place them in a large pot or pressure cooker.
• Add enough water to cover the beans and bring to a boil.
• Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
• Alternatively, you can use a pressure cooker to cook the beans for 30-40 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

• Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
• Add the chopped potato and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Spices and Herbs

• Add the thyme, bay leaves, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using) and stir to combine.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Add the Broth and Beans

• Add the vegetable broth and water to the pot and stir to combine.
• Add the cooked navy beans and stir to combine.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

• Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the soup has thickened slightly.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Optional Toppings:

• Crusty bread, sliced and toasted
• Crackers, such as oyster crackers or saltines
• Grated cheese, such as cheddar or parmesan
• Chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro

Tips and Variations:

• Use leftover vegetables to add extra flavor and nutrition to the soup.
• Add diced ham or bacon for a smoky flavor.
• Use chicken or beef broth instead of vegetable broth for a different flavor.
• Add a can of diced tomatoes for a burst of flavor.
• Make the soup in a slow cooker: Brown the aromatics in a skillet, then add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Navy Bean Soup Nutrition Facts:

Conclusion:

Navy bean soup is a comforting and delicious dish that is perfect for a chilly day. With its rich flavor and high nutritional value, it’s a great option for a healthy and satisfying meal. By following these simple steps and using the optional toppings and variations, you can create a delicious and unique navy bean soup that suits your taste.