Classic Northern Bean Soup

Ingredients

• 1 pound Northern beans, soaked overnight and drained
• 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups kale or spinach, chopped (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Sauté Vegetables:
   • In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Add the garlic and sauté for another minute.
2. Add Beans and Broth:
   • Stir in the soaked and drained Northern beans, broth, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
3. Simmer:
   • Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally.
4. Add Greens:
   • If using, add the chopped kale or spinach during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
5. Serve:
   • Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle into bowls and enjoy!

Enjoy these warm and satisfying Northern bean soup recipes!