Warm your soul with a bowl of hearty Navy Bean and Sausage Soup, a classic American comfort dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings! This delightful recipe combines tender navy beans with smoky sausage and fresh vegetables, simmered to perfection in a savory broth. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying family dinner or a cozy meal for yourself, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Ready to discover the secrets to making this delicious dish? Let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb navy beans, soaked overnight
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by soaking the navy beans overnight in a large bowl of water. Ensure there is enough water to cover the beans by at least a couple of inches, as they will expand as they soak.
- After soaking, drain the beans and rinse them under cold water. Set them aside for later use.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the diced carrots to the pot with the onions and continue to sauté for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Next, add the sliced smoked sausage to the pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and heated through.
- Once the sausage is browned, add the soaked navy beans to the pot. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth, ensuring that the beans and sausage are fully submerged. If necessary, add more broth or water to cover the ingredients.
- Stir in the teaspoon of thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow the soup to simmer for about 1 hour, or until the navy beans are tender and fully cooked.
- After 1 hour, taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot with a spoon.
- Once the soup reaches your desired consistency and flavor, remove it from the heat. Let it cool slightly before serving.
- Serve the Navy Bean and Sausage Soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.
Tips
- Soak the Beans: Make sure to soak your navy beans overnight to ensure they cook evenly and become tender. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your soup.
- Sauté for Flavor: Don’t skip the sautéing step! Cooking the onions and carrots before adding the other ingredients enhances the flavor of the soup and adds depth to the overall taste.
- Choose Your Sausage Wisely: Opt for a good quality smoked sausage for that rich, smoky flavor. You can also experiment with different types of sausage, like kielbasa or chorizo, for a unique twist!
- Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, simply mash some of the beans against the side of the pot during cooking. This will help create a creamier texture without the need for heavy cream.
- Fresh Herbs for Garnish: Consider garnishing your soup with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before serving. This adds a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor that elevates the dish.
- Serve with Crusty Bread: Pair your Navy Bean and Sausage Soup with crusty bread or crackers for a comforting meal that’s sure to satisfy.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 45mg
