Briarpatch Bean Soup
A hearty and comforting bean soup with savory sausage, tender onions, and creamy white beans, perfect for warming up and satisfying hearty appetites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the margarine in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the crumbled sausage and cook until browned.
- Stir in chopped onions and cook until tender.
- Add one can of Great Northern white beans.
- Pour in half a can of water.
- Simmer the soup for about one hour, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing garlic alongside the onions. If you're looking for a healthier option, swap out the sausage for turkey sausage or plant-based sausage. To enhance the soup's texture, you can partially mash some of the beans before adding them. This recipe can also be customized by adding vegetables like carrots or bell peppers, similar to what's done in Rabbit Stew.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza for a comforting dinner spread. For a kick, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dash of hot sauce before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Briarpatch Bean Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. You can also microwave the soup in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Briarpatch Bean Soup contains roughly 317 calories, with 9g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (171% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 use dried beans instead of canned Great Northern beans?
Yes, you can use dried beans! Soak about 1/2 pound of dried Great Northern beans overnight, then cook them until tender before adding them to the soup. Adjust the water content accordingly since dried beans will absorb more liquid.
Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?
Absolutely! Simply omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of water. You can add more vegetables like zucchini or kale for extra flavor and nutrition. This will create a delicious vegetarian option that still packs a hearty punch.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, you can increase the amount of black pepper and red pepper dash. Additionally, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. For an interesting twist, try adding a spoonful of chili powder, reminiscent of flavors found in Green Bean Chili.
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).