Get ready to indulge in a comforting Tuscan classic that will warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds! This Tuscan White Bean with Bacon recipe combines the creamy richness of white beans with the smoky, savory goodness of crispy bacon, creating a dish that's both hearty and satisfying. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a delightful gathering with friends, this recipe is bound to become a favorite at your table. With just a few simple ingredients and a quick cooking time, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time. Read on to discover how to bring a taste of Tuscany into your kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Tuscan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cans (400g each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Chop the bacon into small pieces, dice the onion, and mince the garlic cloves. Rinse and drain the white beans under cold water to remove excess sodium.
- In a large skillet or saucepan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy and golden brown. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once the bacon is cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet for added flavor.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the remaining bacon fat. Sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
- Add the drained and rinsed white beans to the skillet, followed by the vegetable broth and dried thyme. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Allow it to cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the flavors meld together.
- Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the bacon may add some saltiness, so taste before adding too much salt.
- Once the beans are heated through and the mixture has thickened slightly, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the crispy bacon pieces.
- To serve, ladle the Tuscan White Bean with Bacon into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Enjoy your delicious Tuscan White Bean with Bacon as a hearty main dish or a side dish alongside crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your bacon, onion, and garlic in advance. You can also rinse and drain the beans ahead of time, making the cooking process a breeze.
- Crispy Bacon: For perfectly crispy bacon, ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chopped bacon. Stir occasionally and keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
- Flavor Boost: Don’t skip the step of reserving some bacon fat! It adds a rich depth of flavor to the dish. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute with olive oil.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with herbs! Fresh rosemary or sage can add a wonderful aromatic quality to the dish. Just remember to adjust the quantities to your taste.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh salad. Consider serving it with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for an extra touch of flavor.
- Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will deepen, making it even more delicious the next day!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 202kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 8mg
