Experience the comforting embrace of a warm bowl of Great Northern Bean Soup, a dish that not only nourishes the body but also warms the soul. This hearty and wholesome recipe is a celebration of simple, yet flavorful ingredients, combining the richness of great northern beans with aromatic herbs and vegetables. Join us on a culinary journey as we delve into the details of this classic soup, providing you with an in-depth guide on ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb adaptations. Elevate your soup game with this soul-soothing creation!
Ingredients
Produce
- 1 tbsp Basil, dried
- 2 Bay leaves
- 2 Carrots
- 1 stalk Celery
- 5 cloves Garlic
- 2 (15 ounce) cans Great northern beans
- 1 Onion, large
- 1 Potato, large
- 1 pinch Thyme, ground
Canned Goods
- 4 cups Vegetable broth
Baking & Spices
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper, ground
- 1 tsp Sea salt
Oils & Vinegars
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Vegetables
- Peel and dice the onion, carrots, celery, and potato.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
Step 2: Saute Aromatics
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Saute until the vegetables are softened.
Step 3: Add Herbs and Spices
- Stir in dried basil, ground thyme, sea salt, and black pepper.
- Add bay leaves for a fragrant aroma.
Step 4: Incorporate Beans and Potato
- Drain and rinse the great northern beans.
- Add the beans and diced potato to the pot, stirring to combine.
Step 5: Pour in Vegetable Broth
- Pour the vegetable broth into the pot, ensuring all ingredients are submerged.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 6: Adjust Seasoning and Serve
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Cook Notes
- For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup while still leaving chunks of vegetables.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or kale for added nutrition.
Variations
Sausage and Bean Soup
- Brown some Italian sausage and add it to the soup for a heartier version.
Tomato Twist
- Add a cup of crushed tomatoes for a touch of acidity and depth of flavor.
Smoky Bacon Delight
- Include crispy bacon bits as a garnish for a smoky kick.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
Keto
- Replace the potato with cauliflower florets for a lower-carb alternative.
- Use vegetable broth with no added sugars.
Low-Carb
- Omit the potato altogether and opt for extra vegetables.
- Choose a low-carb thickening agent, such as xanthan gum, if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use dried great northern beans instead of canned?
A1: Yes, you can use dried beans, but they will require soaking overnight and longer cooking times.
Q2: Can I freeze this soup?
A2: Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
Q3: Is there a substitute for vegetable broth?
A3: Chicken or beef broth can be used as alternatives, depending on your preference.
Q4: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A4: Certainly! Saute the vegetables as instructed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Q5: Can I add protein to this soup?
A5: Yes, diced chicken, turkey, or even cooked sausage can be added for extra protein.
Great Northern Bean Soup is more than a recipe; it’s a celebration of warmth, simplicity, and nourishment. As you savor each spoonful of this flavorful creation, you connect with the heart of home-cooked goodness. Whether you follow the classic recipe or explore the diverse variations and adaptations, the essence of this soup remains a beacon of comfort. Share this delightful dish with loved ones, create lasting memories, and let the aroma of Great Northern Bean Soup fill your kitchen with the joy of wholesome cooking.
