Time for August's Improv Cooking Challenge!
The theme for this month was beans and bacon. This is one of my very favorite savory food combos. Ron and I adore bacon (seriously who does have a bacon fetish these days) and I love any type of bean. One of my favorite meals growing up was Campbell's beans and bacon soup. These days I stay away from condensed soups, but still love the flavors because it brings a bit of childhood nostalgia. We also traditionally prepare bean and ham soup after the holidays.
I debated making a homemade version of bean and bacon soup for the challenge, but I decided to go in a different direction and make a dip. I wanted to focus on creamy white beans, fresh herbs and bacon- perfect for a pita or a crisp veggie. I added a bit of chicken stock and greek yogurt to add a bit more flavor and creaminess to the dip. I also opted to add a bit of black pepper and finish it with a bit of crumbled bacon. The dip reminds me of all the tastes I love in bean and bacon soup wrapped up in a velvety spreadable dip.
I served this with pita and veggies, but it is very versatile and would be great on crackers and toast as well. Kellen loved with dip and enjoyed it as a dinner appetizer. I am always happy when I find a new way for him to enjoy food. Kellen has taken a liking to beans and loves fresh veggies. He is also (like most kids) into dipping. Normally, I keep hummus around for him, but this was a fun variation for him to try.
If you want to join the fun of the Improv Cooking Challenge visit Kristen of Frugal Antics of a Harried Homemaker for details!
Stay tuned for next month's recipe using Milk and Honey!
Ingredients
1 15 oz can great northern beans, rinsed and drained
1 tsp olive oil
2 Tbl chicken stock
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp celery salt
1 Tbl greek yogurt
1 Tbl chopped fresh thyme
1 Tbl chopped fresh parsley
5 strips of bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
Instructions
Place beans, stock, pepper, celery salt, yogurt, herbs and equivalent of 4 bacon strips (reserve 1 strip for garnish) into a food processor.
Pulse till smooth and well mixed. Remove from processor and transfer to a serving dish. Top with remaining bacon. Serve with pitas and fresh veggies.