Navy Bean Soup Recipe (with Video)

Navy Bean Soup Recipe: Navy bean soup is a comforting and nutritious dish packed with hearty beans, flavorful vegetables, and a rich broth. It’s a classic meal that’s not only easy to make but also budget-friendly and satisfying.

Whether you’re making it for a cozy winter evening or a healthy weeknight dinner, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the perfect navy bean soup recipe.

Ingredients Needed

Essential Ingredients:

• 1 lb dried navy beans
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ham hock or 1 cup diced smoked ham (optional for extra flavor)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 can diced tomatoes (for a slightly tangy flavor)
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (for a smoky taste)
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (for a little heat)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Navy Bean Soup – Step by Step Guide

Step 1: Preparing the Navy Beans

Before cooking, you need to properly prepare the navy beans:

Soaking the Beans:

Overnight Method (Recommended):

• Rinse the navy beans under cold water.
• Place them in a large bowl and cover with at least 3 inches of water.
• Let them soak overnight (8-12 hours).

Quick Soak Method (If Short on Time):

• Rinse the beans and place them in a pot.
• Cover with water and bring to a boil.
• Boil for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
• Cover the pot and let the beans sit for 1 hour.

Rinsing & Draining:

• After soaking, drain the beans and rinse them well to remove excess starch and prevent digestive discomfort.

Step 2: Cooking the Base

Sautéing the Aromatics:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Adding Protein for Flavor:

• If using ham hock or diced smoked ham, add it to the pot and let it cook with the vegetables for a few minutes. This step helps to develop a deeper flavor in the soup.

Step 3: Simmering the Soup

Adding Broth and Seasonings:

1. Pour in 6 cups of chicken or vegetable broth.
2. Add the soaked and rinsed navy beans.
3. Stir in bay leaf, dried thyme, black pepper, and optional smoked paprika.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.

Cooking Time & Consistency:

• Let the soup simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
• If using a ham hock, remove it after an hour, shred the meat, and return it to the pot.

Step 4: Blending for Texture (Optional)

If you prefer a creamier soup, you can:

1. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup while keeping some beans whole.
2. Blend 1-2 cups in a regular blender and return it to the pot for a creamier texture.
3. If you like it chunky, skip blending and keep the beans whole.

Step 5: Final Seasoning & Adjustments

Tasting and Adjusting:

• Add salt only at the end since the ham and broth already contain sodium.
• Adjust seasonings with more black pepper, red pepper flakes, or a splash of vinegar for balance.

Serving Suggestions

Garnishes:

• Fresh chopped parsley
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• A drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice

Best Side Dishes:

• Crusty bread or garlic toast
• A simple green salad
• Cornbread for a Southern twist

Storage & Reheating Tips

How to Store:

• Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

• Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little water or broth if it thickens too much.

Nutritional Benefits of Navy Bean Soup

• High in fiber for digestive health
• Packed with protein to keep you full
• Rich in vitamins and minerals like iron and potassium

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the soak can lead to longer cooking times.
• Adding salt too early can make the beans tough.
• Over-blending can make the soup too pasty.

FAQs about Navy Bean Soup Recipe

What are navy beans?

Navy beans, also known as haricot beans, are small, pea-sized beans that are white in color. They are a popular choice for soups due to their mild flavor and creamy texture when cooked.

Do I need to soak navy beans before cooking?

Yes, it’s recommended to soak navy beans before cooking to reduce cooking time and make them easier to digest. You can either soak them overnight in cold water or use the quick soak method by boiling them for a couple of minutes and then letting them sit for an hour.

Can I make navy bean soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! A slow cooker is ideal for navy bean soup. Just add soaked beans, vegetables, seasonings, and broth to the cooker, and let it simmer on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for about 3 to 4 hours.

What ingredients do I need for navy bean soup?

Typical ingredients for navy bean soup include navy beans, ham bone or diced ham, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, chicken or vegetable broth, and herbs like bay leaves, thyme, and parsley.

Is navy bean soup healthy?

Yes, navy bean soup is very healthy. It’s rich in fiber and protein, low in fat, and contains essential nutrients like iron, magnesium, and folate.

How can I thicken navy bean soup?

To thicken navy bean soup, you can remove a portion of the cooked beans, mash them, and then stir them back into the soup. Alternatively, letting the soup simmer uncovered for additional time can also help thicken it as some of the liquid evaporates.

Can I freeze navy bean soup?

Yes, navy bean soup freezes well. Cool the soup completely and store it in freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in a microwave.

By addressing these common questions, this section aims to help readers feel more confident in preparing navy bean soup, enhancing both their cooking experience and the final result.