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White Bean Stew with Parsnips and Bacon

White Bean Stew with Parsnips and Bacon

Warm up your kitchen and tantalize your taste buds with a comforting bowl of White Bean Stew with Parsnips and Bacon! This hearty American classic combines the creamy richness of white beans, the sweet earthiness of parsnips, and the smoky crunch of bacon, making it the ultimate dish for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings. In just about an hour, you can create a savory masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Ready to dive into a recipe that’s as delicious as it is easy to prepare? Let’s get started!

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings

Ingredients

  1. White beans, canned
  2. Parsnips, diced
  3. Bacon, chopped
  4. Onion, chopped
  5. Carrot, diced
  6. Garlic, minced
  7. Vegetable broth
  8. Thyme
  9. Salt
  10. Pepper

Instructions

  1. Drain and rinse the canned white beans thoroughly under cold water. Set aside.
  2. In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crisp and renders its fat, approximately 5-6 minutes.
  3. Remove the crispy bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.
  4. Add chopped onions and diced carrots to the bacon fat. Sauté until the vegetables become soft and slightly translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
  5. Introduce minced garlic and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
  6. Add diced parsnips to the pot and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes to develop their natural sweetness.
  7. Pour in vegetable broth and add fresh thyme leaves. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  8. Carefully add the rinsed white beans to the pot, stirring to combine all ingredients.
  9. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  10. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer for approximately 35-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  11. Check the consistency, ensuring the parsnips are tender and the stew has thickened slightly.
  12. Sprinkle the reserved crispy bacon pieces over the top of the stew just before serving.
  13. Serve hot in deep bowls, optionally garnishing with additional fresh thyme leaves.

Tips

  1. Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality bacon and fresh vegetables to elevate the flavors of your stew. The better the ingredients, the tastier the dish!
  2. Rinse the Beans: Don't skip rinsing the canned white beans! This step removes excess sodium and any canning liquid that could affect the stew's taste.
  3. Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker stew, let it simmer uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes, allowing some of the liquid to evaporate.
  4. Add Depth of Flavor: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the vegetables, letting it reduce before adding the broth.
  5. Herb Variations: While thyme is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other herbs like rosemary or parsley for a unique twist.
  6. Make It Ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld overnight in the fridge.
  7. Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh thyme or a drizzle of olive oil just before serving adds a beautiful touch and enhances the dish's aroma.With these tips in mind, you’re all set to create a delicious White Bean Stew that will impress everyone at your table!

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 350kcal

Carbohydrates: 45g

Protein: 18g

Fat: 12g

Saturated Fat: 4g

Cholesterol: 20mg

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