There’s something magical about a hearty bowl of soup. It can be comforting, warming, and satisfying all at once. McGuire’s Bean Soup is a recipe that has stood the test of time, and for good reason. Whether you’re seeking a simple, nourishing meal to unwind after a busy day or you want to impress guests with a rich, flavorful dish, this soup is the perfect choice.
Originating from McGuire’s Irish Pub & Restaurant in Pensacola, Florida, this soup has garnered a devoted following thanks to its rich flavor and unique combination of ingredients. It’s the kind of soup you can enjoy year-round, no matter the season, because it’s not just filling but also healthy. Packed with protein and fiber, it makes for a complete meal. But what really makes this soup stand out is the perfect blend of savory, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors that develop over time as it simmers. Let’s dive into the details of how you can make this fantastic soup in the comfort of your own kitchen!
Mcguire’s Bean Soup Recipe
The McGuire’s Bean Soup recipe is not your typical bean soup. It combines a mix of beans with a variety of vegetables, meats, and seasonings that create a layered, rich flavor profile. It’s the perfect blend of rustic ingredients, simmered to perfection. Here’s how to prepare it:
Ingredients Needed
To make McGuire’s Bean Soup, you’ll need a few key ingredients that come together to create that signature taste. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Dry beans – A mix of white beans (like Great Northern) and red beans (like kidney or pinto beans) makes the base of this soup. The variety ensures a hearty texture and deep flavor.
- Smoked ham hocks – The key to that smoky depth of flavor. Ham hocks will add a rich, savory taste that infuses the soup as it cooks.
- Onions – These form the aromatic base of the soup. You’ll sauté them to release their natural sweetness and flavor.
- Carrots – A touch of sweetness and a little crunch. Carrots bring a lovely balance to the beans and smoky ham.
- Celery – Adds a refreshing, mild taste and extra crunch.
- Garlic – An essential aromatic to add depth and richness to the broth.
- Tomatoes – A can of crushed tomatoes adds a tangy brightness that balances out the richness of the beans and ham.
- Chicken broth – The liquid base for the soup. Using chicken broth adds a savory layer, but you can use vegetable broth for a lighter version.
- Bay leaves – These herbs bring an earthy aroma and subtle flavor that infuses into the soup.
- Thyme – Fresh or dried thyme offers an herbaceous flavor, complementing the beans and smoked meats.
- Red pepper flakes – For a slight kick of heat, without overwhelming the other flavors.
- Salt and pepper – To taste, these will season and bring all the ingredients together.
Cooking Instructions
The magic of McGuire’s Bean Soup lies in the slow simmering process, where all the flavors meld beautifully together. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
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Soak The Beans
- Place your dry beans in a large bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak for at least 8 hours or overnight. This will soften the beans and reduce the cooking time.
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Prepare The Vegetables
- Dice the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Set them aside for the next steps.
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Cook The Ham Hocks
- In a large soup pot, add the ham hocks and cover them with water. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let them cook for about 30 minutes. This step helps to infuse the broth with the smoky flavor from the hocks.
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Add The Vegetables And Spices
- In the same pot, add the diced onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Let everything cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, bay leaves, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together, and let the broth come to a simmer.
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Add The Beans
- Drain and rinse your soaked beans. Add them to the pot, along with the ham hocks. Stir to combine, then cover and let the soup simmer on low for about 2 hours. Make sure to stir occasionally and check the liquid levels, adding more broth or water as necessary.
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Final Seasoning
- Once the beans are tender and the soup has thickened slightly, remove the ham hocks and discard the bones. Shred the meat and return it to the pot.
- Taste the soup, adding salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. You can top it with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of cheese for extra flavor.
Ingredient Insights
- Beans: Beans are the backbone of this soup, contributing not only to the texture but also to the soup’s nutritional profile. They’re rich in protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals, making them an excellent choice for heart health and digestion.
- Ham Hocks: The ham hocks are where the flavor really comes from. As they cook, they release a smoky, salty flavor that makes the broth more complex and comforting.
- Carrots and Celery: These classic soup vegetables add not only flavor but also texture and a touch of natural sweetness. They balance the savory depth of the ham and beans, creating a well-rounded dish.
- Tomatoes: The acidity from the tomatoes brightens up the soup and helps balance the richness of the ham and beans. They also add a bit of umami, which complements the other ingredients beautifully.
- Spices: Bay leaves and thyme are classic herbs that work wonders in bean soups, while red pepper flakes add just enough heat to kick things up without overpowering the other flavors.
Expert Tips
- Soak Your Beans: While soaking is optional, it really makes a difference in terms of texture and cooking time. If you skip this step, your beans will take longer to cook, and they might not be as soft.
- Smoked Meats: If you can’t find ham hocks, you can substitute with smoked turkey legs, bacon, or even a smoked sausage. Each will give the soup that rich, smoky flavor, though ham hocks are the traditional choice.
- Seasoning: Be cautious with the salt early in the cooking process, especially if your broth or ham hocks are already salty. You can always adjust the seasoning later, but you can’t take the salt out once it’s added.
- Make it Ahead: Like most soups, this one tastes even better the next day. The flavors continue to develop and meld together, making it a perfect make-ahead meal.
- Thicken Your Soup: If you prefer a thicker consistency, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot or use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup. This will give it a creamier texture without compromising the integrity of the beans.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: For a meat-free version, omit the ham hocks and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can still get a deliciously savory flavor by adding extra herbs like smoked paprika or liquid smoke.
- Spicy Bean Soup: If you like more heat, you can add diced jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or extra red pepper flakes. This will elevate the soup with a smoky spiciness that packs a punch.
- Add Greens: Add a handful of spinach or kale in the last 10 minutes of cooking. This will add extra nutrients and a beautiful pop of color to the soup.
Final Words
McGuire’s Bean Soup is the perfect balance of comforting, smoky, and hearty. With simple, easily accessible ingredients and a bit of time, you’ll be able to recreate the magic of this beloved soup in your own kitchen. Whether you serve it on a chilly evening or at your next family gathering, this soup is sure to satisfy every palate.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For McGuire’s Bean Soup?
The ingredients for McGuire’s Bean Soup typically include dried beans (such as navy or Great Northern beans), ham hocks or a smoked ham bone, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, chicken or vegetable broth, and seasonings such as thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
How Do You Prepare The Dried Beans For McGuire’s Bean Soup?
Before cooking, rinse the dried beans and remove any debris. Then, soak the beans overnight in water or use the quick-soak method by boiling them for 2 minutes, letting them sit for 1 hour, and draining before adding them to the soup.
Can I Use Canned Beans For McGuire’s Bean Soup?
Yes, you can use canned beans in place of dried beans to save time. However, canned beans may not provide the same texture or flavor as dried beans. If using canned beans, drain and rinse them before adding them to the soup.
How Long Does It Take To Cook McGuire’s Bean Soup?
If using dried beans, the cooking process will take around 2 to 3 hours. If using canned beans, it will take about 1 hour to cook the soup, as the beans are already softened.
Can I Make McGuire’s Bean Soup In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, McGuire’s Bean Soup can be made in a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours, depending on the type of beans used.
What Kind Of Ham Should I Use For McGuire’s Bean Soup?
For a rich, smoky flavor, use a ham hock or smoked ham bone. You can also use leftover cooked ham or a ham steak, but the ham hock or bone will impart the most depth of flavor to the soup.
How Can I Thicken McGuire’s Bean Soup?
To thicken the soup, you can mash some of the beans with a potato masher or blend a portion of the soup in a blender and return it to the pot. You can also let the soup simmer longer to reduce and naturally thicken.
Is McGuire’s Bean Soup Suitable For Vegetarians?
The traditional McGuire’s Bean Soup recipe includes ham for flavor. However, it can be made vegetarian by omitting the ham and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Can I Freeze McGuire’s Bean Soup?
Yes, McGuire’s Bean Soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What Can I Serve With McGuire’s Bean Soup?
McGuire’s Bean Soup pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as cornbread, crusty bread, a simple green salad, or even a side of pickles for some extra tang.