Creating your own Bacon and Bean Soup can be straightforward if you follow these simple steps:

1. Cook the Bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy. Remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel to drain, leaving the drippings in the pot.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

3. Add Broth and Beans: Pour in the chicken broth and add the rinsed and drained white beans. Stir to combine, ensuring any bacon residue mixes into the soup.

4. Incorporate Tomatoes: Add the diced tomatoes, along with their juices, into the mix. This will add depth and flavor to your soup.

5. Season the Soup: Stir in the dried thyme, smoked paprika, and bay leaf. Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed.

6. Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 30-35 minutes. This process helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

7. Return Bacon to the Pot: In the last few minutes of cooking, add the crispy bacon back into the pot. Stir to ensure the bacon evenly distributes throughout the soup.

8. Adjust Consistency: If desired, use an immersion blender to blend some of the soup for a thicker texture, but leave plenty of whole beans intact for texture.

9. Remove Bay Leaf: Before serving, don’t forget to remove the bay leaf.

10. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

By following these straightforward steps, you’ll find that making Bacon and Bean Soup is effortless and enjoyable.