Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that's also surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than McGuire's Senate Bean Soup! This classic recipe is a staple in many homes, known for its rich flavor and hearty texture. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner, this Senate Bean Soup is a true crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to become a favorite in your household. It's one of those easy recipes that feels incredibly homemade and comforting.
Ingredients:
This recipe makes a generous 6-8 servings.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound dried navy beans, rinsed and picked over
- 8 cups water or vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped ham or bacon (for added flavor)
Instructions:
This simple recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and offers a healthy and delicious alternative to takeout.
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the flavor base of your soup.
Step 2: Add the Beans and Liquid: Add the rinsed navy beans, water (or broth), thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and bay leaf to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the beans are tender. For extra tender beans, consider soaking them overnight before cooking.
Step 3: Blend (Optional): If you prefer a smoother soup, carefully transfer about 1/3 of the cooked beans to a blender and puree until smooth. Return the pureed beans to the pot and stir to combine. This step adds a lovely creaminess without the need for cream.
Step 4: Finishing Touches: Remove the bay leaf before serving. If using, stir in the chopped ham or bacon during the last 15 minutes of cooking. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips and Variations:
- Soaking the beans: Soaking the beans overnight will significantly reduce cooking time and improve their texture. Just cover them with plenty of water and let them sit in the refrigerator.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced potatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- Make it vegetarian/vegan: Omit the ham/bacon for a vegetarian version. Using vegetable broth ensures it remains vegan.
- Slow Cooker Option: This recipe is easily adaptable to a slow cooker. Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fiber: 10-15g
This hearty and healthy Senate Bean Soup is a perfect example of delicious dishes that are also easy to make. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas, and a great way to enjoy homemade cooking at its best. This recipe offers a blend of flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy your taste buds, making it one of the best recipes for a comforting and nutritious meal. Enjoy!