The Pioneer Woman, Ree Drummond, is known for her comforting and delicious recipes, perfect for family meals. Among her many culinary creations, bean and bacon soup stands out as a hearty and flavorful dish, ideal for a cozy night in or a satisfying lunch. This recipe, inspired by the warmth and simplicity of Pioneer Woman’s cooking, brings together smoky bacon, tender beans, and savory broth to create a soup that’s both easy to make and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients for Pioneer Woman Inspired Bean and Bacon Soup
To start crafting this delightful soup, gather these simple yet impactful ingredients:
- 1 pound bacon, diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 pound dried navy beans, rinsed and sorted
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Bean and Bacon Soup
Follow these straightforward steps to create your own pot of comforting bean and bacon soup, Pioneer Woman style:
- Cook the Bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving the bacon grease in the pot.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot with the bacon grease. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, sage, and black pepper, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour in the chicken broth, add the rinsed navy beans and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beans are tender.
- Blend Soup (Optional): For a creamier consistency, remove about 2 cups of soup and blend until smooth. Return the blended soup to the pot and stir to combine. This step is optional but enhances the texture of the soup.
- Add Bacon and Season: Stir in the cooked bacon. Season with salt to taste. Remember that bacon is already salty, so add salt gradually.
- Serve: Ladle the bean and bacon soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread or cornbread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips for the Best Pioneer Woman Bean and Bacon Soup
- Bean Choice: Navy beans are classic for bean and bacon soup, but you can also use Great Northern beans or cannellini beans.
- Soaking Beans (Optional but Recommended): For faster cooking and easier digestion, soak the navy beans overnight in water before cooking. Drain and rinse them before adding to the soup.
- Smoked Bacon: For a deeper smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick if you like a bit of heat.
- Serving Suggestions: This soup is delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with a side of grilled cheese sandwiches, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.
Enjoy Your Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup
This Pioneer Woman inspired bean and bacon soup recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple, wholesome ingredients cooked with love. It’s a perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly day and bring comfort to your table. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and promises a delicious, family-friendly meal. Enjoy the rich flavors and hearty texture of this classic soup, and bring a touch of Pioneer Woman’s warmth into your kitchen.
