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Bowl of navy bean soup

navy bean soup recipe

★★★★★ (4.6 from 124 reviews)
Warm up with this delicious navy bean soup recipe! Packed with flavor and nutrients, it's the perfect comfort food.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 minutes
Total Time 2 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

Beans
  • 2 cups soaked navy beans These little gems are the star of the show! They’re not only creamy and delicious but also packed with plant-based protein.
Vegetables
  • 1 diced onion Onions bring a sweet, aromatic base to your soup.
  • 2 chopped carrots Carrots add a splash of color and a hint of sweetness.
  • 2 stalks celery Celery contributes a delightful crunch and a fresh flavor.
  • 3 cloves minced garlic Garlic is the secret ingredient that elevates the flavor profile.
  • 6 cups vegetable broth Opt for low-sodium broth to keep things healthy and flavorful.
  • 2 leaves bay leaves Bay leaves add depth and a subtle earthiness.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme Thyme brings a warm, herbal note that complements the beans beautifully.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil A drizzle of olive oil adds healthy fats and richness.

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot For cooking the soup.
  • 1 Blender or immersion blender For blending the soup to desired creaminess.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Soak the Beans: Start by rinsing 2 cups of navy beans under cold water. Then, soak them in a large bowl of water overnight. If you’re short on time, a quick soak method involves boiling the beans for 2 minutes, then letting them sit for 1 hour.
Cooking
  1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion, 2 chopped carrots, and 2 stalks of chopped celery. Sauté these vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, or until they become tender and fragrant.
  2. Add Garlic: Once the vegetables are softened, add 3 cloves of minced garlic to the pot. Cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Next, introduce the soaked navy beans to the pot along with 6 cups of vegetable broth, 2 bay leaves, and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Stir everything together.
  4. Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low.
  5. Simmer the Soup: Allow the soup to simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally, and if the soup thickens too much, add a bit more broth or water.
  6. Blend for Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, you can transfer a cup or two to a blender, blend until smooth, and then return it to the pot.
  7. Season to Taste: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add salt, pepper, or even a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

Notes