Bacon-Kissed White Bean Soup

This is a delicious soup that cuts calories, but not flavor. It is a perfect meal for cold winter nights. Sitting by the fire with this rich and healthy soup will warm you thoroughly, inside and out.

Beans are a sacred food, mythologized as a “musical fruit.” In all seriousness, they are known for versatility and affordability. Rich in antioxidants, fiber, protein, vitamin B, zinc, iron, magnesium, potassium, and copper; beans are little powerhouses of nutrition. Eating beans regularly can reduce the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and colon cancer.

Importantly, they also helps to control weight. White beans, and other foods with a low glycemic index (GI) scores, offer exceptional benefits for weight loss.  The key is insulin.

Enough praise for beans, let’s get to the preparation.

Preparation Time: 26 mins

Cooking Time: 25 mins

Servings : 2

Ingredients

• 1/4 strip bacon, diced
• 1 /2 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 shallots, chopped
• 1( 15 -ounce can) cannellini or other white beans, drained and rinsed
• 3 leaves fresh sage, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1-1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Kosher salt
• 1 and 1/2 slices crusty bread, toasted
• 1 ounces goat cheese, at room temperature
• Freshly ground black pepper

Directions

1. Fry the bacon in a medium saucepan over medium heat until halfway done: 3 minutes. Add the olive oil, butter and shallots and sauté until soft: 6 minutes. Add the beans, sage, garlic and broth, bring to a simmer and cook for 15 more minutes.
2. Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor in three batches and puree until smooth. (Be careful-hot liquids are prone to explode when whipped!) Return the pureed soup to the pan and add the cream, cayenne, and salt to taste. Keep warm.
3. Smear the toasted bread generously with goat cheese and cut into 3/4-inch croutons. To serve, ladle the soup into shot glasses (or bowls), top with goat cheese croutons and sprinkle with black pepper.