Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples like beans, carrots, and broth.
• Quick and Easy: A delicious soup ready with minimal prep and cook time.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Full of fiber, protein, and vitamins to keep you fueled.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite herbs, spices, or extra vegetables.
• Perfect for Any Season: Light enough for spring yet comforting enough for winter.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 can of great northern beans
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 cups of vegetable broth

Directions

1. Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil.
2. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic for 2-3 minutes, until fragrant and softened.
3. Add the diced carrots and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Add the great northern beans (including their liquid if you prefer a thicker soup). Stir well.
6. Simmer the soup for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the carrots to become tender.
7. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
8. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of your favorite herbs.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Include diced chicken or sausage for a heartier meal.
• Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for extra flavor.
• More Veggies: Toss in celery, potatoes, or spinach to bulk up the soup.
• Herbs: Experiment with thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves for an aromatic twist.
• Creamy Option: Blend half of the soup for a creamier texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Let the soup cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: This soup freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and store for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or heat in the microwave until hot.

FAQs

1. Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, soak and cook dried great northern beans before using. Adjust the cook time to ensure they’re tender.

2. What can I substitute for great northern beans?

Cannellini beans, navy beans, or chickpeas work as great alternatives.

3. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

4. Is this soup vegan?

Yes, it’s completely vegan as long as you use vegetable broth.

5. How do I thicken the soup?

Blend a portion of the soup or add a slurry of cornstarch and water to thicken it.

6. Can I add pasta or rice?

Yes, small pasta shapes or cooked rice make a wonderful addition to this soup.

7. What can I pair with this soup?

Serve with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich.

8. How can I add more flavor?

Try adding a splash of lemon juice, soy sauce, or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.

9. Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?

Yes, chicken broth works well if you don’t need the soup to be vegetarian.

10. How long does it take for the carrots to soften?

Carrots typically soften within 15-20 minutes of simmering.

Conclusion

Great Northern Bean Soup with Carrots is a comforting, flavorful, and nutritious recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this soup is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try, and enjoy the warm, hearty goodness in every bowl!