Imagine a soup so rich, so comforting, that it instantly transports you to a cozy kitchen filled with mouthwatering aromas. This Instant Pot Bean Bacon Soup is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that combines the smoky goodness of crispy bacon with hearty beans and a depth of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a soul-warming dish to impress your guests, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried beans (mixed)
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the dried beans under cold water to remove any debris. Soak them in water for at least 4 hours or overnight for better results. If you're short on time, a quick soak can be done by boiling them for 2 minutes and then letting them sit for 1 hour.
- Once the beans are soaked, drain and set them aside. Prepare your other ingredients by chopping the bacon into small pieces, dicing the onion, and mincing the garlic.
- Set your Instant Pot to the 'Sauté' function. Once hot, add the chopped bacon and cook until it becomes crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- After the bacon is crispy, add the diced onion to the pot. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
- Turn off the 'Sauté' function. Add the soaked and drained beans to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together to combine.
- Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to 'Sealing'. Select the 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' function and set the timer for 30 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for about 10 minutes. After that, carefully switch the valve to 'Venting' to release any remaining pressure.
- Once all the pressure has been released and the lid can be opened safely, remove the lid and stir the soup. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- For a creamier texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup, or simply serve as is with chunks of beans and bacon.
- Serve the bean bacon soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips
- Bean Soaking Secrets: While the recipe allows for quick soaking, overnight soaking yields the most tender beans. If you're short on time, the quick-soak method works perfectly.
- Bacon Brilliance: Use high-quality bacon for maximum flavor. The crispy bacon bits will add an incredible smoky dimension to your soup.
- Seasoning Hack: Don't be afraid to experiment with additional herbs like rosemary or a bay leaf to enhance the soup's complexity.
- Texture Tricks: For a creamier soup, blend about a third of the soup with an immersion blender, leaving some beans whole for texture.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This soup tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance. The flavors will continue to meld and develop overnight.
- Storage Solution: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Instant Pot Pro Tip: Always ensure your sealing ring is clean and properly seated to prevent any pressure cooking issues.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg
