====== Bean and Bacon Soup ======

  *6 strips bacon
  *2 large carrots (about 1 1/2 cups)
  *3 stalks celery - chopped (about 2 cups)
  *2 medium onions - chopped (about 2 cups)
  *6 cloves garlic - chopped
  *48 oz. great northern beans - drained
  *2 cups water
  *3 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  *2 tsp Kosher salt
  *3/4 tsp black pepper
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  - In a 3 3/4 qt (or larger) saucepan or dutch oven, fry the bacon until crisp. Remove and drain on paper towels, cool, chop and set aside.
  - Over medium heat, add the carrot to the pan drippings and saute for 5 min. Add the celery, onion, and garlic, stirring well and cooking for 3 min. more.
  - Add the beans and 2 cups water. Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce heat to low. Let simmer for 10 min. Uncover and with a potato masher  partially mash the bean mixture until it thickens slightly.
  - Stir in the parsley, salt, pepper, and bacon.

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  Serves: 4-5       Total cook time: 30 min
  Source: Real Simple Feb 2005
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{{tag>food meat soup}}