Bean And Bacon Chowder
A hearty and comforting bean and bacon chowder with smoky bacon, tender vegetables, and creamy broth, perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine navy beans and water in a large kettle; bring to a boil and cook for 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 1 hour.
- Saute diced bacon and chopped onion until lightly browned.
- Add the bacon and onion with fat to the beans and simmer for 1 hour.
- Add salt, pepper, diced potatoes, diced celery, and stewed tomatoes; simmer for another 30 minutes.
- Gradually add milk to the flour to make a smooth mixture, then add to the soup.
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil to thicken.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a smoked ham hock during the simmering process. If navy beans are unavailable, great northern beans can be a suitable substitute. To save time, you can use canned navy beans; just reduce the cooking time accordingly. For a thicker chowder, blend a portion of the beans before adding the milk.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty chowder with crusty bread or biscuits for a comforting meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley can brighten the dish. It pairs beautifully with Ham Party Rolls for a delightful family dinner. Consider a light salad on the side to balance the richness of the chowder.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or water to restore creaminess and prevent the chowder from becoming too thick. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bean And Bacon Chowder contains roughly 619 calories, with 18g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), protein (36% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1569mg per serving (68% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chowder vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the bacon with smoked tempeh or mushrooms for a savory flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of water for added depth. Adjust the seasoning to taste, as the bacon's saltiness will be missing.
How can I make this chowder thicker?
To thicken the chowder, you can blend a portion of the beans before adding the milk. Alternatively, increase the amount of flour or add a cornstarch slurry during the last stages of cooking to achieve your desired consistency.
What can I serve with Bean and Bacon Chowder?
This chowder pairs well with various sides. Consider crusty bread or cornbread for dipping. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables can add freshness and balance. For a heartier option, serve with Sloppy Joes (Hamburger On A Bun) for a filling meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).