There’s something about a warm, hearty bowl of soup that feels like a hug in a bowl, and McGuire’s Irish Pub Senate Bean Soup is the perfect example of a comforting dish that’s rich in flavor and history. McGuire’s, a beloved landmark in Pensacola, Florida, has been serving up this iconic soup for decades, and its fame has spread far beyond the Sunshine State. It’s not just a simple bean soup-this recipe is a flavorful and satisfying blend of ingredients, slow-cooked to perfection, and packed with deep, savory tastes.
Whether you’ve visited McGuire’s and savored the soup in their cozy pub or have heard about it through the grapevine, now you can bring the magic of this dish to your own kitchen. Let’s dive into the specifics of the recipe, break it down step by step, and explore the nuances of each ingredient to give you the perfect bowl of Senate Bean Soup that’s sure to impress your taste buds and warm you from the inside out.
Mcguire’s Irish Pub Senate Bean Soup Recipe
Ingredients Needed
Here’s everything you’ll need to get started with this incredible recipe. These ingredients combine to create a savory, rich, and flavorful soup that has stood the test of time.
- 1 lb dry navy beans – The base of the soup, providing a creamy texture and mild flavor that absorbs all the delicious seasonings.
- 1 smoked ham hock – Adds a smoky richness that is the soul of this soup. The meat from the hock will give a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture to the dish.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped – A classic aromatics ingredient, onions bring sweetness and a savory base that elevates the overall flavor of the soup.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped – Celery adds a subtle crunch and freshness, balancing the richness of the ham and beans.
- 1 carrot, chopped – The sweetness of the carrot adds depth to the flavor, complementing the savory elements.
- 4 cups chicken broth – The liquid base for the soup, enhancing the flavors and helping to create a silky texture.
- 1 bay leaf – Bay leaves provide an aromatic note, infusing the soup with a subtle, herbal flavor as it simmers.
- 1 tsp thyme – A delicate herb with a slightly earthy flavor that blends well with the beans and ham.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together.
- 1 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing the vegetables, adding richness to the base of the soup.
- 1 tbsp white vinegar – The acidity in the vinegar helps to balance out the richness of the ham and beans, creating a well-rounded flavor.
Cooking Instructions
Once you’ve gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to get cooking. Follow these easy steps for a delicious bowl of Senate Bean Soup that’s sure to impress.
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Prepare The Beans
- Start by sorting through the dry navy beans to remove any stones or debris. Then, rinse the beans under cold water. Place them in a large pot and cover with water. Let them soak for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. If you’re in a rush, you can use the quick-soak method: bring the beans and water to a boil, then remove from heat and let them sit for about an hour.
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Cook The Ham Hock
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the smoked ham hock and sear it on all sides for about 5 minutes until it gets a nice golden-brown color. This step helps lock in the flavor and creates a rich base for the soup.
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Sauté The Vegetables
- Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrot to the pot with the ham hock. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent. This will release all the aromatic flavors that will form the foundation of your soup.
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Combine Beans And Broth
- Add the soaked and drained beans to the pot, along with the chicken broth, bay leaf, and thyme. Stir everything together, and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
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Simmer
- Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are soft and the ham hock is tender and beginning to fall apart.
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Shred The Ham
- Remove the ham hock from the soup and set it aside to cool. Once it’s cool enough to handle, shred the meat off the bone, discarding the fat and bones. Return the shredded meat to the soup.
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Season And Serve
- Add salt, pepper, and white vinegar to taste. The vinegar will add a tangy balance to the dish. Once seasoned, give the soup a good stir, remove the bay leaf, and serve hot!
Ingredient Insights
Let’s take a deeper look at the key ingredients and how they contribute to the flavor profile of this soup.
- Navy Beans: These small, white beans are the classic choice for Senate Bean Soup because of their creamy texture when cooked. They absorb the flavors of the broth and the ham, becoming perfectly soft and smooth in every bite.
- Smoked Ham Hock: The ham hock is the star of this soup, infusing the broth with a smoky, savory flavor that takes the soup from good to unforgettable. As it cooks, the ham releases fat and collagen, making the broth rich and satisfying.
- Chicken Broth: A quality chicken broth forms the base of the soup. If you have the time, homemade broth adds an extra layer of depth, but store-bought works just fine for a quicker version.
- White Vinegar: A subtle splash of vinegar at the end is key to balancing out the richness of the soup. It’s that perfect note of acidity that makes the entire bowl come together.
Expert Tips
- Use a Pressure Cooker: If you’re short on time, you can make this recipe in a pressure cooker or Instant Pot. It’ll cut down on the cooking time significantly, allowing you to enjoy this hearty soup in under an hour.
- Let It Sit Overnight: Like many soups, Senate Bean Soup often tastes better the next day. Let it sit in the fridge overnight to allow the flavors to meld even further. Just be sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.
- Serve with Cornbread: For the ultimate comfort food experience, serve this soup with some homemade cornbread. The slightly sweet, crumbly texture of cornbread pairs perfectly with the rich and smoky soup.
- Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash a portion of the beans with a spoon or immersion blender and stir it back into the soup to create a creamier texture.
Recipe Variations
While the traditional version of Senate Bean Soup is delicious on its own, here are some variations you might want to try based on your tastes or dietary preferences:
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the ham hock and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add in some extra seasonings or smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor of the ham.
- Spicy Senate Bean Soup: For a little heat, add in some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. The spice will add a nice contrast to the rich and creamy beans.
- Herb Boost: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary for a fragrant twist on the classic recipe. Adding them towards the end of cooking ensures they retain their fresh flavor.
Final Words
Making McGuire’s Irish Pub Senate Bean Soup at home is a true culinary adventure. With a few simple ingredients, you can craft a hearty, soul-warming meal that’s rich with flavor. The combination of the smoked ham hock, tender beans, and aromatic vegetables creates a perfect balance of savory and hearty goodness.
Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or want to impress guests with a dish that’s both delicious and comforting, this recipe delivers every time. Plus, there’s something deeply satisfying about cooking a recipe that’s been passed down and enjoyed by so many.
FAQs
What Is The McGuire’s Irish Pub Senate Bean Soup Recipe?
The McGuire’s Irish Pub Senate Bean Soup recipe is a hearty and flavorful soup made with navy beans, ham, vegetables, and a blend of spices. It has become famous for being served in McGuire’s Irish Pub in Pensacola, Florida, and is known for its rich, comforting flavor and perfect balance of ingredients.
How Many Servings Does The McGuire’s Senate Bean Soup Recipe Make?
The McGuire’s Irish Pub Senate Bean Soup recipe typically yields about 8 to 10 servings, depending on portion size. The recipe can be adjusted to make more or fewer servings as needed.
What Ingredients Are Used In McGuire’s Irish Pub Senate Bean Soup?
Key ingredients in the McGuire’s Senate Bean Soup include dried navy beans, ham (or ham hocks), carrots, onions, celery, garlic, bay leaves, thyme, salt, pepper, and water or chicken broth. The combination of these ingredients gives the soup its signature flavor.
Can I Make McGuire’s Senate Bean Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of the McGuire’s Senate Bean Soup by omitting the ham or ham hocks and replacing the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can also add smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the depth of flavor that the ham provides.
How Long Does It Take To Cook McGuire’s Senate Bean Soup?
The total cooking time for McGuire’s Senate Bean Soup can vary. After soaking the beans (if required), it typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to cook the soup. This includes the time to bring it to a boil and simmer until the beans are tender and the flavors have developed.
Do I Need To Soak The Beans Before Making McGuire’s Senate Bean Soup?
Yes, it is recommended to soak the dried navy beans overnight before making McGuire’s Senate Bean Soup. Soaking helps reduce the cooking time and ensures that the beans cook evenly. Alternatively, you can use the quick-soak method by boiling the beans for a few minutes and letting them sit for an hour before draining and cooking.
Can I Use Canned Beans For McGuire’s Senate Bean Soup?
While the traditional recipe calls for dried navy beans, you can use canned beans to save time. You would need about 3 cans of navy beans, drained and rinsed. If using canned beans, reduce the cooking time, as they are already cooked.
What Type Of Ham Is Best For McGuire’s Senate Bean Soup?
For the best flavor, it is recommended to use a ham hock, which provides both meat and bone that infuses the broth with richness. If you don’t have a ham hock, you can use diced ham or a ham bone. Some people even use smoked ham for a deeper flavor.
Can McGuire’s Senate Bean Soup Be Frozen?
Yes, McGuire’s Senate Bean Soup freezes well. After cooking, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw and heat on the stove until warmed through.
What Should I Serve With McGuire’s Senate Bean Soup?
McGuire’s Senate Bean Soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, cornbread, or a side salad. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or grated cheese for added richness. A cold pint of Irish stout or ale is a classic beverage pairing.