Navy Bean Soup

Ingredients and Weight:

• 1 lb dried navy beans, picked over and rinsed
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 quarts chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 ham hock (optional)

Preparation Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

1 hour 30 minutes

Difficulty Level:

2 (Easy)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Place the navy beans in a large pot or Dutch oven and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2 minutes. Remove from heat, cover, and let stand for 1 hour.
2. Drain the beans and return them to the pot. Add the onion, carrots, celery, garlic, chicken broth, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beans are tender.
4. Remove the bay leaf and discard. Add the ham hock, if desired, and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
5. Remove the ham hock and discard the bone. Serve the soup hot.

Nutritional Information:

(Per serving)

• Calories: 200
• Protein: 10 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30 grams
• Fiber: 10 grams
• Fat: 5 grams

Dish Characteristics:

• Creamy and flavorful
• Hearty and filling
• Perfect for a cold winter day
• Can be made vegetarian by omitting the ham hock

User Comments:

• "This soup is so delicious and comforting. I love the creamy texture and the hearty flavor."
• "I always add a bit of extra thyme to my soup. It gives it a wonderful depth of flavor."
• "This is the perfect soup to make on a cold winter day. It's so warming and satisfying."
• "I love that this soup is so easy to make. I can throw it all in a pot and have a delicious meal in no time."
• "This soup is a family favorite. We always make it during the holidays."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• If you're using dried beans, be sure to pick them over and rinse them before cooking. This will help to remove any dirt or debris.
• If you're short on time, you can use canned navy beans instead of dried beans. Just rinse them well before adding them to the soup.
• To make a vegetarian version of this soup, simply omit the ham hock.
• You can also add other vegetables to this soup, such as potatoes, corn, or tomatoes.
• Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread or crackers.