Make this tasty and hearty soup when you need a satisfying dish quickly. Serve it with grilled cheese or crusty bread.
4 strips bacon
1 large carrot, chopped
2 ribs celery, chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, chopped
2- 15 1/2 oz. cans Great Northern beans, drained
2 T. fresh parsley, chopped
salt and black pepper, to taste
In a large saucepan over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp, 6 to 8 minutes. Place on a paper towel to drain. Cool, then break into pieces.
Cook chopped carrot in the saucepan with the bacon drippings over medium heat, and cook for 5 minutes, then add celery, onion, and garlic, stir and cook for 3 minutes. Add beans and 2 cups water. Bring to a boil and cover, then reduce heat to low. Let simmer for 10 minutes.
Remove the cover and partially mash the bean mixture until it thickens slightly. Stir in the parsley, 1¼ teaspoons salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, and bacon.