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How to Make Great Northern Bean Soup with Carrots
Step 1: Prepare the Beans
If using dried beans, rinse and soak them overnight in water. Drain and set aside. If using canned beans, simply drain and rinse them thoroughly before using.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Soup Base
Add the broth, bay leaf, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the pot. Stir in the prepared beans.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 1-1.5 hours if using dried beans, or 30 minutes if using canned beans. Stir occasionally, ensuring the beans are tender and the flavors meld together.
Step 5: Adjust Seasoning
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or herbs as needed. If the soup is too thick, add a bit more broth or water until the desired consistency is achieved.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired. Serve with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Great Northern Bean Soup
- Soaking Beans: If you’re short on time, you can use the quick-soak method for dried beans. Boil the beans in water for 2 minutes, then let them sit, covered, for 1 hour before draining and using.
- Add a Smoky Flavor: Toss in a smoked ham hock or a bit of cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky depth of flavor.
- Make It Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and add extra vegetables like diced zucchini, spinach, or tomatoes for a plant-based twist.
- Thicken the Soup: For a creamier texture, mash a portion of the beans and stir them back into the pot.
- Storage: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
Why This Soup is a Must-Try
Great Northern Bean Soup with Carrots is more than just a meal—it’s an experience of cozy, nourishing comfort. The combination of tender beans, sweet carrots, and aromatic herbs creates a bowl of soup that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re serving it as a hearty lunch or a simple dinner, this recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Final Thoughts
This Great Northern Bean Soup with Carrots is a classic recipe that’s perfect for any time of year. It’s versatile, easy to make, and loaded with goodness, making it a go-to option for busy families and food lovers alike. So, grab your pot and ingredients, and get ready to create a dish that’s as heartwarming as it is delicious!
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