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Navy Bean Soup

2/16/2025

Navy Bean Soup: A Comforting Classic

Few dishes are as timeless and comforting as a warm bowl of navy bean soup. Simple yet flavorful, this hearty dish has been a staple in American kitchens for generations. Whether you're looking for a nutritious meal to warm up on a chilly day or a satisfying way to use up pantry staples, navy bean soup is the perfect choice.

The History of Navy Bean Soup
Navy bean soup gets its name from its long history of being served in the U.S. Navy. Due to the durability and affordability of navy beans, they became a key ingredient in military meals, providing sailors with a rich source of protein and fiber. Today, this soup remains popular not just for its nutritional value but also for its comforting and nostalgic flavors.

A vintage from Watkins Hearthside Cook Book, 1952

Health Benefits of Navy Bean Soup

Navy beans are packed with nutrients that make this soup not just delicious but also incredibly healthy. Here are some of the key benefits:

High in Protein: Navy beans are an excellent plant-based protein source, making them a great option for vegetarians and vegans.
Rich in Fiber: This soup is great for digestive health, helping to keep things moving smoothly and promoting gut health.
Heart-Healthy: Navy beans are known to lower cholesterol and support heart health due to their high fiber and low-fat content.
Packed with Vitamins and Minerals: They contain essential nutrients such as iron, potassium, and folate, which contribute to overall well-being.

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How to Make a Delicious Navy Bean Soup

Making navy bean soup is simple and rewarding. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

1 cup dried navy beans (or 2 cans, drained and rinsed)
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups vegetable or Watkins Chicken Soup & Gravy Base (prepared)
1 smoked ham hock (optional for added flavor)
1 teaspoon Watkins Organic Thyme
1 Watkins Organic Bay leaf
Watkins Salt and Watkins pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

If using dried navy beans, soak them overnight in water, then drain and rinse.
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened (about 5 minutes).
Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Pour in the broth, then add navy beans, thyme, bay leaf, and the ham hock (if using).
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beans are tender.
Remove the bay leaf and ham hock. If you prefer a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm with crusty bread.

Variations and Add-Ons

Vegetarian Option: Skip the ham hock and add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a similar depth of flavor.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream for a richer texture.
Herbaceous Flavor: Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for extra freshness.

Navy bean soup is a classic dish that never goes out of style. It’s hearty, nutritious, and easy to customize based on your preferences. Whether you make it as a comforting meal for yourself or to share with loved ones, this soup is sure to warm both your stomach and your heart.
So, why not give it a try? Grab a pot, some navy beans, and let the magic of slow-cooked flavors fill your kitchen!

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Chicken Soup From Scratch

2/3/2025

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There's something about a steaming bowl of homemade chicken soup that warms both the body and soul. Whether you're feeling under the weather or simply craving a comforting meal, this classic dish never fails to deliver.

Homemade chicken soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that can help boost your immune system and keep you healthy. From tender chicken pieces to wholesome vegetables and flavorful herbs, each spoonful offers a taste of home and tradition. The best part? You can customize your soup with your favorite ingredients and tailor it to suit your taste preferences.

Tips for the perfect homemade chicken soup:

Start with a good quality chicken broth or make your own from scratch.
Use a mix of vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions for added flavor.
Add herbs like thyme and parsley for a fragrant touch.
Don't forget to season well with salt and pepper.

Making chicken soup from scratch is a cozy, comforting meal!

Here's a simple recipe to guide you:

Ingredients:

1 whole chicken (or 3-4 bone-in, skinless chicken breasts/thighs)
8 cups water or Watkins chicken broth (for more flavor)
1 medium onion, chopped
2 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
2-3 garlic cloves, minced
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh herbs (like thyme, rosemary, or parsley), optional
1-2 cups noodles or rice (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the chicken:
- If using a whole chicken, remove any giblets and rinse the chicken under cold water. You can either keep the skin on for extra flavor or remove it if you prefer a leaner soup.
- Place the chicken in a large pot and cover with 8 cups of water (or chicken broth for more depth of flavor).
Cook the chicken:
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer.
- Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the top. Continue simmering for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the chicken is fully cooked and the flavors meld together.
Add vegetables and seasonings:
- Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside to cool.
- Add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and bay leaves to the pot. Let everything simmer for another 20-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Shred the chicken:
- While the vegetables are cooking, shred the chicken. Once it's cool enough to handle, remove the bones and skin (if you used a whole chicken). Tear the meat into bite-sized pieces.
Combine and season:
- Add the shredded chicken back into the soup. Taste and season with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs you'd like (like thyme or parsley).
- If you want noodles or rice in your soup, add them now and let them cook for about 10-15 minutes (depending on the type you're using).
Final touches:
- Once everything is cooked and the flavors have melded together, remove the bay leaves.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to taste.
Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls, and enjoy with a slice of bread or crackers on the side!

This is a great base, but you can always customize it by adding other vegetables like potatoes, parsnips, or leeks, or switching up the herbs to your preference. Enjoy!

In a world filled with fast food and processed meals, taking the time to make a pot of homemade chicken soup is a simple act of self-care. So, grab your ingredients, channel your inner chef, and savor the magic of this timeless comfort food.

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Navy Bean Soup

Chicken Soup From Scratch

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Navy Bean Soup

Chicken Soup From Scratch

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