White Bean & Bacon Soup

Submitted by Patty Mae

"More cold-winter-day comfort food. Serve with a hunk of crusty rustic bread and you're good to go. This is one of those soups that's better the next day."

 

• Ready In: 1hr 30mins
• Ingredients: 9
• Serves: 4

ingredients

• 1⁄2 lb bacon, cut in 1/2-inch pieces
• 1 cup celery, cut in 1/4-inch cubes
• 1 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 cup carrot, cut in 1/4-inch cubes
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 (15 ounce) can small white beans, with liquid
• 1 large potato, cut in 1/4-inch cubes
• 2 cups chicken stock
• salt & freshly ground black pepper

directions

1. In a large heavy saucepan, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from pan with a slotted spoon and set aside.
2. Pour off all except about 2 tablespoons of the bacon drippings.
3. Add onions, carrots, and celery to pan and sauté, stirring frequently, until onions are translucent.
4. Add garlic and sauté a few more minutes.
5. Add potatoes, beans, chicken stock, and reserved bacon.
6. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground pepper.
7. Bring to a boil; let boil for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Reduce heat to medium low. Cover and let simmer about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.